As we ease into Montana’s long winter season, now’s the time to make sure your home or business is prepared. When you flip your thermostat to “heat”, your furnace should be clean, inspected, and ready to perform reliably all season long.

Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your heating system running safely, efficiently, and without surprises when the temperatures drop.

Why Should I Have Furnace Maintenance?

Regular HVAC furnace maintenance is essential for keeping your system running efficiently, safely, and comfortably throughout the heating season. A well-maintained furnace uses less energy, which can lower your utility bills and reduce wear and tear on the equipment—helping it last longer and save you money in the long run.

Just as important, routine inspections help identify and prevent safety issues, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide risks, before they become serious problems. And when your furnace is properly cleaned and tuned, it delivers more consistent, reliable heat—keeping your home cozy and comfortable no matter how cold it gets outside. Regular maintenance helps your furnace run more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bills. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy says you could save up to 30% by maintaining your heating systems and properly sealing and insulating your Missoula, MT, home.

When Is It Best to Schedule Furnace Maintenance?

Furnace maintenance can be performed at any time of the year—it doesn’t have to wait for fall or winter. No matter the season, investing in professional maintenance keeps your system running safely, efficiently, and reliably year-round.

Whether it’s spring, summer, or right before the first frost, our Design Air experts are here to inspect, clean, and fine-tune your furnace. Annual maintenance helps catch issues to prevent unexpected breakdowns, extends the life of your system, and ensures you stay comfortable when it matters most. It also helps achieve manufacturer warranty requirements.

Whenever it works best for your schedule, we’ll make sure your furnace is ready to perform at its best.

What Should Be Done During Maintenance?

At Design Air, we don’t believe in cutting corners—or checking boxes just for show. Our approach to furnace maintenance is all about quality, not quantity. Every visit is a thorough, safety-focused service designed to keep your system running at its best—now and in the seasons ahead.
We include:

  • Check filter, measure, and adjust air flow settings for best air flow (some programs include filter replacement).
  • Inspect blower assembly and test motor for proper specs.
  • Inspect visible ductwork in the area.
  • Test for proper staging of system (if a multistage unit).
  • Adjust gas pressure for proper heating balance.
  • Inspect for proper inducer operation and venting.
  • Test ignition device to manufacturer’s specs.
  • Inspect burner and visible parts of heat exchanger.
  • Perform safety Carbon Monoxide (CO) test on system.
  • Tighten all electrical connections.
  • Inspect all safety switches for proper operation.
  • Inspect and clear condensate drains (for high-efficiency furnaces).
  • Test thermostat operation.
  • Written report and recommendations upon completion.

What Are My Maintenance Options?

Design Air is proud to provide maintenance for a variety of heating systems, including forced-air furnaces, wall furnaces, unit heaters, and standalone console heaters. Please note that we currently do not service geothermal or boiler systems.

Cost of maintenance depends on the type and configuration of system you currently have. Visit our Maintenance page for more benefits and details regarding our Design Air Protection Program.

Ready to Schedule Your Furnace Maintenance?

Contact Design Air today to ensure your Missoula, MT, heating system is prepared for the winter months ahead. Stay warm and comfortable with our expert HVAC services! Call or text us today at 406-251-7997 or request service online for a free consultation.

Need Furnace Maintenance Service?

Call us at 406-251-7997!

Be sure to check our Instagram and Facebook for Tips and Tricks from our Technicians!

“Just had my furnace tuned up by Nathan, and once again, he did a fantastic job. I always feel better going into our cold winters knowing that my furnace is in great shape to keep my family warm no matter how cold it may get.”

- Sharon S.

“September. Fall is in the air, back yard apples are about ready to be picked, and … annual maintenance for furnace and air conditioner. Thanks Design Air and Kyler for your reliability and good service.
John and Valerie”

- John H.

“Swede and I were concerned that Mark would no longer be providing maintenance for our furnace and AC unit. However, Nate was here today and did an excellent job. He's friendly, efficient and careful to explain everything to us. Good experience!
Carol Anderson”

- Carol A.

“Morgan was very professional. Answered all of my questions and cleaned up before he left. I would definitely recommend him and hire him again in the future.”

- Jeanie H.

“We have used Design Air for decades and have a yearly maintenance for our Hi-eficiency furnace and gas fireplace. Kyler does a thorough job of each and patiently answers all my questions and shows me how to check my filter or adjust the fireplace as needed.”

- Shannon K.

“From start to finish Design Air took care of us! Liz was amazing to work with to find the right replacement option and financing for us. We were quickly scheduled after this was decided. Eastyn and David were very professional and able to install our new furnace in a days work. Very thankful and appreciative to them all!”

- LynDee B.

“Nate was very efficient on time and amazingly friendly. He was very clear of what needs to happen. Going forward on maintenance as we just bought this home to keep everything up and running. We will definitely call him again.”

- Jamie G.

“Easton and Matt B. did an excellent job with our furnace installation. Efficient, courteous and patiently answered all our questions.”

- Robert E.