How to Maintain Heating Equipment During Heat Waves

If you think heating equipment is just for winter, think again. Even during sweltering heat waves, your furnace, boiler, and ductwork need attention. Ignoring them isn't just risky—it's like forgetting to water your garden until the leaves turn brown. At GOGO Heating, we see how neglected systems cause headaches long before the first autumn chill.

Summer is the perfect time to show your heating system some love. Off-season maintenance not only extends its life, but it also keeps your home or business safer and your wallet happier. Here’s how—and why—you should maintain heating equipment during even the hottest months.

Why Heating Maintenance Matters in Hot Weather 🌡️

You might be tempted to forget about your furnace or radiant heating system when the forecast is nothing but sun and sweat. But summer can be tough on heating equipment. High humidity, dust, and unused time all add up. Think of your heating system like a classic car—just because it’s parked doesn’t mean it doesn’t need care.

Here’s why summer maintenance matters:

• Humidity and moisture can cause rust or corrosion inside boilers, furnaces, and even ductwork.
• Dust and pollen sneak into unused equipment, affecting air quality and filter performance.
• Tiny critters sometimes decide your idle furnace is the perfect summer home.
• Unnoticed wear from last winter can worsen, leading to costly repairs when you need heat again.

According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), routine care during the off-season helps maintain efficiency and safety in all climates.

Risks of Neglecting Equipment During Heat Waves

Letting your heating system sit ignored all summer can lead to:

• Unexpected breakdowns when you turn it on in the fall
• Poor indoor air quality from dirty filters or mold in ductwork
• Valve failures or leaks from corrosion
• Shortened equipment lifespan

In some cases, neglected heating systems can even create fire hazards or dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) notes that poorly maintained heating equipment is a leading cause of home heating fires.

Don't let your guard down just because the AC is running. Your safety—and comfort—depend on year-round vigilance.

Off-Season Maintenance Checklist

Taking care of your heating equipment during summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a simple checklist you can follow:

• Replace or clean filters: Dirty filters aren’t just a winter problem. They can clog with dust and allergens all year. Learn more about our filter services.
• Inspect for visible rust or corrosion: Check boilers, radiators, and furnace exteriors.
• Clear debris from around all heating appliances: Keep the area tidy, just like you would for an outdoor grill.
• Test thermostats near you: Make sure your thermostat is still responsive and batteries are fresh.
• Look for unusual smells: A musty odor could mean mold in your ducts.
• Listen for strange noises: Bumps, squeaks, or rattles are red flags.
• Schedule a professional inspection: Don’t wait for the first frost. Book a heating maintenance visit.

Preventing Summer-Related Damage

Summer brings unique threats to heating equipment. Here’s how to stay ahead:

• Control humidity: Use dehumidifiers or whole-house fans to keep moisture in check. Too much humidity can corrode metal parts.
• Seal ducts: If you spot gaps, leaks, or loose connections, seal them. This keeps critters and dust out.
• Keep vents clear: Don’t block vents with summer gear or storage boxes.
• Run your system briefly: Like starting your car every few weeks, running your heating system for a few minutes can keep parts lubricated and working smoothly.
• Check carbon monoxide detectors: Press the test button. Replace batteries if needed.

A little prevention goes a long way—especially when your system sits idle for months.

Off-Season Safety: Quick Checklist ✔️

• Make sure all heating appliances are unplugged or safely powered down if not in use.
• Store flammable materials far from your furnace or boiler.
• Keep children and pets away from heating equipment—even when it’s off.
• Double-check that exhaust vents are open and clear.

For commercial properties, follow guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and local building codes for seasonal shutdowns and inspections.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you call GOGO Heating for off-season service, our technicians:

• Inspect burners, heat exchangers, and safety controls for wear or hidden damage
• Lubricate moving parts and check pressure gauges
• Clean or replace air and furnace filters
• Test thermostats and recalibrate controls as needed
• Check for gas leaks, blocked vents, or signs of carbon monoxide issues
• Advise on air balancing and IAQ testing if you have indoor air quality concerns

We follow recommendations from organizations like the International Code Council (ICC) to ensure your equipment remains up to code.

DIY vs. Professional Care

Some tasks are safe for handy homeowners:

• Changing filters
• Checking thermostat batteries
• Visual inspections for leaks or rust

But deeper maintenance—like opening up the furnace, testing for gas leaks, or cleaning internal components—should always be left to qualified technicians. Modern heating systems are complex. One wrong move can spell trouble.

If in doubt, call for help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Costs & Time Factors

How much will off-season maintenance cost? It depends on your system’s age, size, and what’s needed. Most tune-ups are quick—often under an hour—but can save you much more in emergency repairs later.

Remember, regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your equipment and keeps energy bills lower. Think of it like going to the dentist for cleanings instead of waiting for a toothache.

When It’s an Emergency

Even in summer, emergencies can happen. If you notice:

• Strange, persistent smells (especially burning or gas)
• Unusual noises that don’t stop
• Leaks or evidence of water damage near your heating equipment
• Carbon monoxide detector alarms

Shut down your system and call for 24-hour emergency service immediately.

FAQ: Heating Equipment & Summer Care

Q: Is it really necessary to service my furnace in the summer?
A: Yes! Off-season care catches hidden damage and keeps your system clean, safe, and ready for fall.

Q: Can I just turn everything off until winter?
A: Not always. Some equipment (like boilers or radiant heating) needs periodic checks even when idle. Seals can dry out and dust can build up.

Q: How often should I replace my filters?
A: Check them every 2–3 months—even in summer. Dust and allergens don’t take a vacation.

Q: What about smart thermostats near you—should I adjust settings in the summer?
A: Yes. Put your heating system in standby or vacation mode, and make sure software is updated.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

Every region is unique, but summer heat can hit hard anywhere. In cities with long, hot summers, mold and dust are bigger threats. In places with summer storms, power surges can damage thermostats and control boards.

For residents and businesses in Billings and beyond, scheduling off-season maintenance helps you avoid surprises and keeps you code-compliant. Heating Maintenance is always in season.

Your heating equipment might be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Let GOGO Heating help you keep things running smoothly—no matter the weather.

Call GOGO Heating now — or reach us anytime at  844-467-0847 .