Fall Furnace Checklist: Get Your Heating System Ready for Winter

1. Change Your Filter – Breathe Easy This Winter

First things first, let’s talk filters. Those little guys do a lot of heavy lifting by keeping dust, dirt, and who-knows-what-else out of your air. After a summer of keeping your AC going strong, your filter is likely past its prime. Replacing it with a fresh one before you switch to heating mode not only improves your indoor air quality but also helps your furnace run more efficiently.

Pro Tip: Mark your calendar for filter changes every three months, but if you have pets or someone in the home with allergies, go for every month. Trust us, it makes a difference!

2. Inspect Your Pilot Light – No Surprises Here!

The pilot light is like the heart of your furnace, and if it’s not working properly, your furnace won’t heat up when you need it most. Take a moment to check if it’s burning a steady blue flame. A yellow or flickering flame could indicate a problem, like a clogged burner or an airflow issue. If you’re unsure about inspecting the pilot light yourself or notice any unusual signs, this might be the perfect time to call in a pro for peace of mind. It’s one small check that can save a whole lot of trouble.

3. Check Your Thermostat – Avoid Any Heating Headaches

The thermostat is the brains of the operation, telling your furnace when to turn on and off. As simple as it sounds, a quick test of your thermostat before winter truly hits can prevent a lot of cold nights. Set your thermostat to heating mode, then bump it up a few degrees to see if the furnace responds. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you don’t have one. It’s one of the easiest ways to save on energy costs and keep your home consistently comfortable.

4. Clean and Clear Your Vents – Let the Warm Air Flow

Imagine blocking a garden hose with your thumb and trying to water the lawn. That’s what clogged or blocked vents do to your furnace! Take a few minutes to check each vent in your home, making sure they’re free of dust, pet hair, and debris. Move any furniture or rugs that might be blocking the airflow too. Not only will this help your furnace run more efficiently, but it will also warm your home more evenly. It’s an easy step that makes a huge difference!

5. Schedule a Professional Inspection – For That Extra Peace of Mind

Let’s face it: furnaces are complex machines with a lot of moving parts. If it’s been a year or more since your last professional inspection, or if you just want to feel completely confident, consider scheduling a fall tune-up with a professional HVAC technician. They’ll do a deep inspection, catching any potential issues before they turn into full-blown problems. During a tune-up, a tech can:

• Clean and lubricate parts
• Test safety controls
• Check gas connections
• Adjust settings for maximum efficiency
• 
  

In short, they’ll make sure your furnace is running smoothly, safely, and efficiently, setting you up for a warm winter without unexpected hiccups.

The Bottom Line: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Taking a few steps now to get your furnace in shape can save you stress (and potentially money) later in the season. With a fresh filter, a steady pilot light, clear vents, and maybe even a little help from the pros, you’ll be all set to enjoy winter nights that are as warm as they are cozy. So, go ahead – grab that checklist, tick off those boxes, and give yourself the gift of a hassle-free, toasty winter! If you need a hand with any of this or want a professional to give your furnace a once-over, remember that 32 Degrees is here to help. Here’s to a smooth, warm, and comfortable winter season ahead!