As the weather turns colder in Western Washington, many of us are flipping that thermostat from “cool” to “heat” and settling in for cozy nights indoors. But before you curl up on the couch and enjoy that warm air, it’s smart to take a moment to think about furnace safety. After all, your furnace has probably been resting quietly since last spring, and just like any machine, it needs a little attention before working overtime through the winter months.
At Taylor Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners in Pierce County keep their homes warm and safe for nearly four decades. Whether your system is brand new or well-loved, following a few simple safety steps can make a huge difference in keeping your home comfortable and worry-free all season long.
Schedule Your Annual Furnace Maintenance
If there’s one furnace safety tip we can’t stress enough, it’s this: schedule regular professional maintenance before winter. Your furnace has a lot of moving parts that can wear down or get dirty over time, and an annual inspection ensures everything is in working order before you need it most.
During a professional furnace maintenance visit, licensed HVAC technicians will:
- Clean and inspect the burners, blower, and ignition system
- Check for gas or carbon monoxide leaks
- Replace or clean filters
- Test the thermostat and safety controls
- Ensure your system is running efficiently and safely
A simple tune-up can catch small issues early before they turn into major repairs or safety risks. Plus, a well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, which means lower energy bills and more reliable heating all winter long.
Check and Replace Your Furnace Filters
It might not seem like a big deal, but your furnace filters play a huge role in both safety and comfort. When filters get clogged with dust and debris, airflow is restricted. That forces your furnace to work harder, which can lead to overheating, short cycling, and even system failure.
Dirty filters also hurt your home’s indoor air quality, circulating dust, allergens, and other particles throughout your living space. Replacing them regularly, typically every 1 to 3 months depending on your system and household, keeps your air cleaner and your furnace running smoothly.
A clean filter also helps prevent dangerous heat buildup. It’s a small step, but one that can save you money, improve comfort, and extend your system’s lifespan. Think of it as one of the simplest and most effective forms of heating maintenance you can do yourself.
Keep the Area Around Your Furnace Clear
Your furnace needs space to breathe. Too often, we see homeowners using the area around their furnace for storage, boxes, holiday decorations, or even cleaning supplies. Unfortunately, that’s a recipe for trouble.
Combustible items like paper, cardboard, or chemicals can create a fire hazard if they’re stored too close to the heat source. Ideally, keep at least three feet of clearance around your furnace at all times. This gives the system proper ventilation and reduces the risk of accidental ignition.
Also, make sure air vents and registers throughout your home aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains. Good airflow is essential for safe and efficient heating. If you notice rooms that feel colder than others, it could be a sign of restricted airflow or a duct issue that needs attention.
Install and Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Your furnace should never produce dangerous gases, but if something goes wrong, like a cracked heat exchanger or poor venting, carbon monoxide (CO) can leak into your home. It’s colorless, odorless, and potentially deadly, which is why every home with a furnace should have working CO detectors.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Many homeowners choose to change batteries at the same time they replace filters, a simple habit that helps ensure consistent protection.
Smoke detectors are equally important, as they can alert you to electrical issues or overheating components. If your detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them. These small devices can literally save lives, and they’re one of the easiest furnace safety steps to take.
Be Alert for Unusual Noises or Smells
Your furnace will make some noise while running, a soft hum, the sound of air moving through vents, but loud or unusual sounds can be a sign that something’s not right.
Here’s what to watch (and listen) for:
- Banging or popping: Could indicate dirty burners or expanding ductwork.
- Squealing or grinding: Often points to a worn-out blower motor or belt.
- Rattling: Might mean loose panels or internal components.
- Burning smell: Could be dust burning off at startup, but if it lingers, call for service immediately.
- Rotten egg odor: This is a major red flag for a gas leak, shut off your system, leave your home, and contact emergency services right away.
If you ever notice a persistent smell or unusual noise, don’t try to diagnose it yourself. Call a professional for furnace repair as soon as possible to keep your system safe.
Keep Your Vents and Flues Clear
Your furnace relies on proper ventilation to operate safely. The vent or flue pipe carries exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, out of your home. If these pipes become blocked by debris, snow, or even nesting animals, gases can back up into your living space.
During your fall prep, take a few minutes to check your exterior vents and ensure they’re clear. If your furnace is in the basement or crawl space, make sure no objects are leaning against the exhaust pipes inside.
For high-efficiency models that use PVC venting, inspect the intake and exhaust pipes outdoors for blockages. Even a small amount of debris or ice buildup can disrupt airflow and cause your system to shut down or operate unsafely.
Don’t Ignore Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
Older furnaces often rely on a standing pilot light, while modern systems use electronic igniters. Either way, the ignition system is crucial for safe and consistent operation. If your pilot light keeps going out, or if you notice it burning yellow instead of blue, that could indicate poor combustion or a ventilation issue.
A yellow flame means your furnace isn’t burning fuel efficiently, which can produce higher levels of carbon monoxide. Never try to adjust or relight the pilot yourself if you smell gas. Instead, shut off the system and call for professional service.
For newer furnaces with electronic ignition, repeated ignition failures or frequent resets are a sign that it’s time for a technician to take a closer look. These problems often stem from faulty sensors, dirty burners, or worn-out parts that can easily be fixed during a tune-up.
Know When It’s Time for a Furnace Replacement
Even with regular care, furnaces don’t last forever. Most systems run efficiently for 15–20 years, but older models can develop safety issues over time, such as cracked heat exchangers or faulty wiring. If your furnace is nearing that age and needs frequent repairs, it may be time to start thinking about a furnace replacement.
Newer models are not only safer but also much more energy-efficient. A new furnace installation can lower your heating bills, improve comfort, and help protect your home from unexpected breakdowns. Plus, today’s high-efficiency systems are built with advanced safety features that older units simply don’t have.
At Taylor Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we can evaluate your system and help you decide whether repair or replacement makes the most sense for your home and budget.
Why Professional Furnace Care Matters
DIY maintenance can help with small things like filter changes, but when it comes to safety checks and system inspections, it’s best to leave it to the pros. Licensed HVAC technicians have the tools and training to identify potential problems early, measure combustion efficiency, and ensure your furnace meets local Washington building codes.
Professional furnace services not only keep your system running safely but also preserve your manufacturer’s warranty. Many brands require documented annual maintenance for coverage, so staying on top of your tune-ups can save you from out-of-pocket repair costs later.
In short, regular professional care is the best way to ensure your heating system runs efficiently, safely, and reliably all winter long.
Call Taylor Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical Today for Tailored Furnace Services!
Your furnace is one of the hardest-working systems in your home, especially during a chilly Western Washington winter. Make sure it’s ready to handle the season safely and efficiently. Whether you need a quick tune-up, expert furnace repair, or a full system replacement, our team at Taylor Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical has you covered.
We proudly serve Puyallup, WA, and the surrounding Pierce County area with top-quality heating services and professional HVAC services. Our certified technicians are trained, background-checked, and committed to keeping your home safe and comfortable. Call us today or schedule an appointment online; we’ll help you stay warm and worry-free all winter long.