Fall Heating Checklist
Test your heat before you need it. Running through these steps in the fall helps you avoid a no-heat call on the coldest night.
Safety first
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries
- Clear anything stored near the furnace or indoor unit
- Expect a brief dust smell on first startup; a lasting burning smell means shut it off and call a pro
System
- Replace or clean your air filter
- Switch the thermostat to heating and raise it a few degrees to test
- Confirm warm air reaches the vents within a few minutes
- Make sure all vents and registers are open and unblocked
- Listen for unusual noises when the system cycles
Before winter
- Schedule a professional heating tune-up
- Set a programmable or smart thermostat schedule for savings