As cooler weather approaches, many homeowners will soon turn their furnaces back on for the first time in months. Preparing your heating system ahead of time ensures comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind throughout the fall and winter. A little bit of maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs later. Here’s a guide of steps to take to get your furnace ready, as well as how to know when it’s time to call in a professional.
Step 1: Change or Clean Your Air Filter
The first and easiest step is checking your furnace filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, makes your system work harder, and reduces indoor air quality. Replacing or cleaning your filter before the heating season starts will keep your furnace running efficiently and help lower energy bills.
Step 2: Test Your Thermostat
Before cold weather hits, switch your thermostat over to “heat” and set it a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. Listen for your furnace to turn on. If it doesn’t, you may need fresh batteries or a professional inspection.
Step 3: Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Furnaces need adequate airflow and clearance to operate safely. Remove any boxes, storage bins, or household items stored nearby. Keeping the area clear also reduces fire hazards.
Step 4: Inspect Vents and Registers
Walk through your home to make sure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed. Furniture, rugs, or curtains blocking vents can reduce efficiency and create uneven heating throughout your home.
Step 5: Check for Strange Smells or Noises
When you first start your furnace after months of inactivity, it’s normal to smell a slight burning odor for a short time as dust burns off. However, persistent smells of gas, smoke, or chemicals are red flags that require immediate attention. Likewise, banging, grinding, or squealing noises indicate mechanical issues that should be inspected by a professional.
Step 6: Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Even with DIY care, your furnace benefits from professional servicing. A technician will inspect the heat exchanger, clean components, check gas connections, test safety controls, and make sure everything is operating efficiently. Annual maintenance extends the lifespan of your system and helps catch small problems before they turn into major repairs.
When to Call a Professional
While homeowners can handle basic upkeep, there are times when professional help is essential. Call a technician if:
- Your furnace won’t turn on after checking the thermostat and power.
- You hear persistent loud noises during operation.
- Strange odors (especially gas) come from the system.
- Airflow feels weak or uneven throughout your home.
- Your heating bills spike unexpectedly.
Preparing your furnace before cold weather hits saves money, improves efficiency, and ensures your home stays cozy all season long. By following this checklist and knowing when to bring in a professional, you’ll head into fall and winter with confidence that your heating system is ready to handle the chill.
Schedule your first furnace maintenance visit with a team of licensed professionals from Tom Schaefer Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Trusted Name Reliable Service.
