With autumn here, the weather is going to gradually cool. This is the time of year to get reacquainted with the furnace, which has likely been out of use for close to a year. Furnace maintenance is essential for healthy operation throughout the fall and the ensuing winter. Here are some preparation steps to keep in mind.
Replace the Air Filter as Needed
What happens to a car with a dirty air filter? The engine consistently misfires, and performance is erratic. It’s the same with a furnace. When the filter is badly worn, the system has to work harder to produce the same output. This reduces efficiency, not to mention it places the furnace at risk of overheating and premature wear. The furnace user manual has simple instructions on how to remove, check, and replace the air filter. Some filters are cleanable and can be reused several times before replacing.
Clean the Ducts
The AC and furnace both push air through the ducts. Over the summer, the ductwork accumulated dust and other debris from the constant AC use. Switch on the furnace and let it run for about a minute or two. Does your nose pick up on a musty odor? Does the air make you want to sneeze? These are signs of a dirty air duct. This warrants a professional cleaning. Staying cozy shouldn’t come at the expense of allergies and asthma-like symptoms.
Tinker with the Thermostat
A third to a half of HVAC issues can be traced to a faulty thermostat. After all, this is the system’s control center. To test it after a long period of non-use, switch on the AC and let it run for several minutes. Once the room is fully cooled, switch to heating mode. If the thermostat is working properly, the room will warm up within a minute.
If the room continues to stay cold, check the batteries. If that doesn’t work, you may need a professional to recalibrate the thermostat. If you have an older system, consider upgrading to a modern, smart thermostat, which can self-regulate and self-diagnose issues.
Clear Obstructions
As a general rule, there should at least be a three-foot radius of open space between the furnace and other objects. If there are cardboard boxes, other appliances, or clutter, remove them. This allows the furnace the free space it needs to operate at its maximum. Flammable materials definitely need to be removed.
Inspect for Carbon Monoxide
If you have a gas-operated furnace, there’s a risk of a carbon monoxide leak. Have a carbon monoxide detector on every floor, especially in the bedrooms. Test the detectors regularly and switch out the batteries every year. Consider investing in a fire and carbon monoxide detector combination.
Consider a Furnace Upgrade
Furnace and HVAC systems that are 15 years old are already outdated due to the rapid acceleration of HVAC technology. Contemporary models are far more energy efficient and can reduce your utility bills over time. In addition, modern systems have features that enhance usability. Examples include smart features that enable you to use your mobile device as a remote control, or an HVAC app for quickly setting up a maintenance schedule.
Need Furnace Maintenance for Your Arlington Residence?
Don’t be at the mercy of the upcoming cold spells. If testing reveals less than optimal performance, then you may need furnace maintenance from an Arlington professional. The team at All Points Heating performs HVAC installation and upkeep. Entrust us to ensure your furnace is performing at its factory setting. Contact us to set up an appointment.
Furnace Maintenance and Preparation
Posted on September 08, 2025 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business