The crisp autumn air signals it’s time to switch from cooling your home to heating it. Before the first freeze hits the Triangle, Sandhills, Hampton Roads or Richmond areas, your HVAC system needs attention to perform reliably all winter long.
A properly maintained HVAC runs more efficiently, lasts longer and keeps your family comfortable when temperatures drop. Here’s your essential fall furnace checklist to prepare for the heating season ahead.
Check and replace your air filter.
Dirty filters restrict airflow and force your furnace to work harder. This increases energy bills and can cause premature system failure. Check your filter monthly and replace it every one to three months, depending on usage and filter type.
Clear vents and registers.
Remove furniture, rugs and other items blocking your heating vents. Blocked vents create uneven heating and put extra strain on your system. Make sure all registers are open and clean.
Test your thermostat.
Switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode and set it a few degrees above room temperature. Your furnace should kick on within a few minutes. If it doesn’t respond or cycles on and off repeatedly, you may need professional service.
Inspect your ductwork.
Look for visible damage, loose connections or gaps in accessible ductwork. Leaky ducts waste energy and reduce heating efficiency. Schedule professional duct sealing if you notice issues.
Listen for unusual sounds.
When you first turn on your furnace after months of non-use, some dust burning off is normal. However, banging, rattling, squealing or grinding sounds indicate problems that need immediate attention.
Schedule professional maintenance.
A certified HVAC technician should inspect your furnace annually. They’ll check safety controls, clean components, lubricate moving parts and identify potential problems before they become costly repairs.
Professional maintenance typically includes:
- inspecting the heat exchanger for cracks
- testing gas pressure and connections
- cleaning the blower assembly
- checking electrical connections
- verifying proper ventilation.
Don’t wait for the first cold snap.
Furnace problems always seem to happen on the coldest nights when HVAC companies are busiest. Getting ahead of maintenance now means you won’t be left shivering while waiting for repairs.
At Bell Cow Service Company, our experienced technicians provide thorough furnace inspections and maintenance throughout the Triangle and Sandhills regions of North Carolina, along with Hampton Roads and Richmond, Virginia. We’ll make sure your heating system is ready for whatever winter brings.
Don’t get left out in the cold this winter. Contact Bell Cow Service Company at (844) 234-2355 to or fill out our quick contact form to schedule your fall furnace tune-up today.