HVAC

Most of what a homeowner should do with a furnace or air conditioner is maintenance. ENERGY STAR recommends checking the air filter monthly in heating season and a professional check-up each fall. Our winter maintenance checklist covers that and the carbon monoxide alarms that go with any fuel-burning appliance.

Installing a smart thermostat is the most common DIY upgrade here. Turn off power to the furnace first and label the wires before you disconnect them. If the furnace isn’t turning on, check the simple things first: the thermostat, the filter and the furnace switch.

Keep the space around the furnace clear, and don’t store paint, gasoline or solvents beside it.

Anything on the gas side, such as burners, gas valves, venting or a new furnace, is licensed work. See when to call a licensed pro.