Winter in Los Angeles might seem mild compared to other places, but those December and January nights can catch you off guard. Your heater sits unused for months, then suddenly you need it to work perfectly when temperatures drop.
Check Your Air Filter First
Start with the basics. Pull out that air filter and take a good look at it.
Is it gray and dusty? Does light barely pass through it? Time for a replacement.
A dirty filter makes your heater work twice as hard. It also pushes dust and allergens through your home. Fresh filters cost a few dollars but save you hundreds in energy bills.
Most homes need new filters every three months. Write the date on the filter frame so you remember when you installed it.
Clean Around Your Heating Unit
Walk over to your heater and check what’s around it. Storage boxes, holiday decorations, or random household items need to be moved.
Your heater needs breathing room. Keep at least three feet of clear space on all sides.
Dust off the outside of the unit with a damp cloth. Wipe down any vents you can reach safely. This simple step helps air flow better through your system.
Test Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat to heat mode and bump the temperature up a few degrees. Listen for your heater to kick on.
Does it start right away? Does warm air come through your vents within a few minutes?
If nothing happens, check the batteries in your thermostat first. Dead batteries cause more heating problems than you might think.
Try adjusting the temperature up and down to make sure your thermostat responds properly. A sluggish or unresponsive thermostat signals trouble ahead.
Listen for Strange Sounds
Run your heater for about 15 minutes and pay attention to what you hear.
Normal sounds include a gentle whoosh of air and maybe some clicking as parts warm up.
Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds mean something’s wrong. Don’t ignore these warning signs. Strange noises usually get worse over time and lead to bigger problems.
Know When to Call Professionals
Some heating issues go beyond basic maintenance. If your heater won’t start, makes scary noises, or barely produces warm air, you need expert help.
Professional Heater Repair Services Los Angeles can spot problems before they become expensive emergencies. Technicians have the tools and training to handle gas lines, electrical connections, and complex repairs safely.
Don’t wait until the coldest night of the year to discover your heater needs major work. Schedule a tune-up now while repair companies aren’t swamped with emergency calls.
Final Words
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home comfortable this winter. Change that filter, clear the area around your unit, and test everything before you need it.
Your future self will thank you when that first cold snap hits and your heater runs like a champ.
