A little maintenance goes a long way. Most of the breakdowns we see in winter could have been caught at a tune-up. Here’s a simple checklist split into what you can do yourself and what a professional should check once a year.
Every month (heating and cooling season)
- Check the filter. Replace it every 1–3 months, or monthly if you have pets or during wildfire smoke.
- Keep vents and returns clear of furniture and rugs.
- Listen for new noises: banging, squealing or rattling are early warnings.
Every fall (September–October)
- Book a furnace tune-up before the first cold snap.
- Test the thermostat: switch to heat and make sure the furnace fires up.
- Test your CO alarms and replace batteries. Replace CO alarms every 7–10 years.
- Clear around the outdoor heat pump: leaves, branches and anything stored against it.
- Check the furnace vent pipes outside are clear of nests and debris.
Every spring (March–May)
- Book an A/C or heat pump tune-up before the summer rush.
- Hose off the outdoor coil gently (power off first, no pressure washer).
- Check the condensate drain near the furnace is flowing and not clogged.
- Trim plants back at least 60 cm from the outdoor unit.
In winter
- Keep snow clear of the heat pump and the furnace vent pipes.
- Don’t worry about steam from the heat pump. That’s the defrost cycle working normally.
- Don’t chip ice off the unit. If it’s encased in ice for hours, call us.
What a professional tune-up should include
Gas furnace:
- Inspect and clean the burners and flame sensor.
- Check the igniter and gas pressure.
- Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks (a cracked exchanger can leak CO).
- Test safety switches and the pressure switch.
- Check venting and the condensate drain.
- Measure temperature rise and check blower operation.
- Test for carbon monoxide.
Heat pump or A/C:
- Check refrigerant pressures and temperatures.
- Clean the outdoor coil and check the indoor coil.
- Test the defrost cycle and the reversing valve.
- Check electrical connections, capacitors and the contactor.
- Clear the condensate drain.
- For mini-splits: clean filters, the indoor coil and the blower wheel.
What does a tune-up cost?
A furnace or heat pump tune-up in Surrey is typically $129–$199. Doing both in one visit costs less. Many manufacturers require yearly maintenance to keep the warranty valid, so keep your receipts.
Why it matters here
- Damp winters encourage rust and corrosion on outdoor units.
- Wildfire smoke clogs filters fast in late summer.
- Cold snaps are when weak parts fail, usually on the coldest night of the year.
FAQ
How often should I service my furnace? Once a year, ideally in the fall.
Does a new furnace need maintenance? Yes, from year one. It also protects your warranty.
Can I clean my mini-split filters myself? Yes. Rinse them every month or two in warm water and let them dry before reinstalling.
Do you offer a maintenance plan? Yes. Ask us about a yearly tune-up plan when you book.
Book your tune-up
Call 778-903-2414 or book online. We service homes across Surrey, Langley, Delta, White Rock and the Fraser Valley.
Related: furnace repair Surrey · heat pump installation · furnace not working? · HVAC Coquitlam
