Winter in Mission can sneak up on you fast. One week, you’re enjoying cool evenings on the patio. The next? You’re scraping frost off your windshield before heading to work.
That’s why preparing your heating system before the first real cold snap hits is a smart move. The last thing you want is to discover your furnace isn’t working, right when you need it most.
At LBA Services, we’ve seen it all: frozen pipes, broken furnaces, clogged filters that spread dust instead of warm air. Our goal is to help you avoid those headaches with a simple, proactive approach.
Here’s your pre-winter heating checklist, straight from our Mission team to your home.
✅ 1. Change Your Air Filter
Easy. Quick. Essential.
Your furnace filter catches dust, hair, and allergens floating through your home. When it gets clogged, your system has to work harder, which means higher energy bills and weaker heat output.
Pro tip: Replace your filter every 1–3 months, and even more often if you have pets or allergy concerns.
✅ 2. Test Your Thermostat
Switch your thermostat to “heat” and see how it responds. Does your system kick on quickly? Does the temperature match what you feel in the room?
If not, your thermostat may be miscalibrated or on its last leg.
Thinking about an upgrade? A smart thermostat can help you save on energy costs by automatically adjusting to your schedule. Pretty smart for something that keeps you warm.
✅ 3. Listen for Strange Noises
Your heating system shouldn’t sound like a garage band practice. If you hear banging, squeaking, or rattling, don’t ignore it.
Unusual noises often mean a part is loose, dirty, or close to failure. Catching the issue early can prevent a bigger and more expensive repair later.
And trust us, emergency furnace calls during a Kansas cold snap? Not fun.
✅ 4. Clear Vents and Registers
Walk through your home and check your vents. Are they blocked by rugs, furniture, or curtains? Are they dusty?
When vents are blocked, your furnace can’t distribute heat evenly. That leads to cold spots and wasted energy. A quick vacuum and some rearranging can make a big difference.
✅ 5. Check the Pilot Light (If Applicable)
Older gas furnaces use a small flame called a pilot light. It should be a steady blue.
If it’s yellow, flickering, or out, there could be an issue with your gas flow or ventilation. That’s when it’s time to call in the pros at LBA.
Important: Don’t attempt to repair gas issues yourself. Safety first.
✅ 6. Schedule a Professional Heating Tune-Up
Even if your system seems fine, a professional inspection is the best way to ensure peace of mind. During a tune-up, our licensed technicians will:
- Inspect your entire system
- Clean and lubricate key components
- Check for carbon monoxide leaks
- Verify safe, efficient performance
Think of it like getting your car ready for a road trip, you wouldn’t hit the highway without checking the tires and oil. Your furnace deserves the same care.
✅ 7. Seal Drafts Around Your Home
Heat loss through drafty windows and doors forces your furnace to work harder. That means higher bills for less comfort.
Seal leaks with weatherstripping, caulk, or door sweeps. Small fixes can make a huge difference in both comfort and efficiency.
✅ 8. Know Your Furnace’s Age
Most furnaces last around 15–20 years. If yours is older, it may be time to start planning for a replacement, not in a panic, but on your own timeline.
Older units cost more to run and break down more often. If you’re unsure of your furnace’s age, check the label or give us a call. We’ll help you figure it out.
Stay Warm with LBA Services
Mission winters can be unpredictable, but your heating system doesn’t have to be.
At LBA Services, we’ve been helping Kansas City–area homeowners stay warm and comfortable for years. Whether you need a routine tune-up, a quick repair, or a brand-new furnace, our expert technicians have you covered.
Don’t wait until the first freeze. Take care of your checklist today and enjoy a stress-free, cozy winter.
📞 Call us at (913) 398-3148 or schedule your heating check-up online.
LBA Is On The Way!
