Get Your Furnace Ready for Fall

Fall time in Michigan is approaching us quickly, which means our furnaces that we’ve been resting all summer are about to kick on for the first time. Depending on your home insulation and how fast the cold comes, you might not even notice your furnace kicking on for the first time — more than likely it would be at night. With high temperatures peaking every afternoon and dropping off every night, we have to get our furnaces ready for that unexpected first kick-off (a football fall term for you). Listed below are some steps to get your furnace ready for the cold and to help prevent a breakdown this season. And since it’s fall and football season, let’s break these down in downs!

First Down: Replace Your Filter

A year can be a long time for a filter, and even though your furnace wasn’t running, your central AC system was still using it. Dirt, hair, dust, and pet dander are all things that are unpleasant and impacting the performance of your airflow. Proper airflow is important for a furnace’s health and helps prevent a mid-season breakdown.

Second Down: Make Sure Your Vents Are Cleared

We’re back to talking about airflow — and yes, it’s that important. Even if that couch is in the perfect spot in your living room, if it’s covering a vent, it’s hurting the airflow for your furnace and the overall health of it, not to mention increasing your energy bill. Make sure your vents are cleared of any large objects (even heavy drapes) and make sure they’re open.

Third Down: Check Your Thermostat

Thermostats range in type and connectivity, so it’s a good idea to make sure yours is prepared for the cold nights ahead.

Fourth Down: Schedule a Tune-Up

It’s always good practice to schedule a tune-up with a licensed and trained All Seasons Heating and Cooling professional before the start of each winter. This way, not only are you sure your furnace will be ready to go, but it will also be given the best chance of avoiding a late-winter breakdown.