8 Important Things To Check Before Turning On Your Furnace

Winter is coming, whether we like it or not. Get your HVAC system prepared for the cold! Your furnace will thank you for it. Ensuring your HVAC system is working properly will save you money and stress when winter hits. Now’s the time to check out your heating system and make sure it will be blowing warm air when the temperature in Vaughan drops way, way down.

Without inspecting your furnace before winter, you’re leaving opportunities open for your furnace to need repair in Toronto. Be sure to check these 8 essentials are running smoothly before you turn on your furnace for the winter.

1. Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance

Some ask, “do I really need a furnace tune-up?” Yes! The perfect time to schedule your annual furnace maintenance is that all-too-brief fall window between cooling and heating seasons. HVAC techs are not as busy, so it will be easier to book an appointment for a tuneup, cleaning, and any necessary furnace repair. This way, you’ll be all systems go when the frosty weather comes along with new air filters and cleaner air. Better yet, sign up for an ongoing HVAC maintenance plan.

2. Thermostat

A furnace is only as good as its thermostat, so make sure your thermostat is functional and correctly calibrated. Also, check that it switches properly from COOL to HEAT.

3. Install Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostat installation is one of the smartest moves you can make when it comes to saving energy. You can program your furnace temperature in advance. Then adjust it, if you like, from wherever you are, by simply using an app on your smartphone. The smart thermostat will help even further by “learning” your habits and home heating preferences.

What an easy way to cut down heating bills!

4. Air Conditioner

Cover the top of your outdoor condenser unit when you shut your air conditioner off for the last time till next spring. This will protect it from fall leaves, dust, pine needles, and other debris, as well as falling icicles in the heart of winter. However, you should avoid using a plastic cover, which can trap rust-causing moisture, leaving you with the bill for AC repair the following summer. And if you have a heat pump, leave it uncovered, as it will continue to work all year round.

5. Furnace Air Filter

Your furnace filter should be checked once a month and changed (or cleaned) every 90 days minimum, whenever you’re running either your furnace or your air conditioner.

If you were too busy with summer fun to take care of this chore, change the air filter now. A dirty filter can cause many furnace issues. One sign you have a dirty filter is your furnace starts making whistling noises.

A clean air filter removes dust from your system and will pay off in terms of increased airflow, energy efficiency, and it will keep your heating equipment working longer. Talk with your HVAC pro about upgrading to a more effective, eco-friendly permanent filter.

6. Heating Vents

Ensure that your heating vents and your air flow are not blocked by furniture or other items. This will allow heat to circulate through the air ducts and in your home optimally once you turn on your furnace for the winter, improving home comfort and reducing utility bills. You’ll also be eliminating a potential fire hazard at home.

7. Chimney

Your furnace may vent through the chimney. If so, it’s vital to have the chimney inspected to check for creosote buildup or animal nests — either of which should be cleaned out so that they do not cause a dangerous chimney fire. (Of course, this inspection is also essential if you are going to use your fireplace.)

8. Carbon Monoxide Detector

Make sure your current carbon monoxide detector is fully operational. If you don’t have one, get one. This simple device is a lifesaver. You see, any fuel-burning appliance (like a natural gas or oil furnace, gas stove, propane or kerosene heaters, etc.) can produce carbon monoxide gas as a byproduct of combustion. Unlike some smelly furnace problems, this gas is odourless, colourless, tasteless, yet deadly. A CO detector is the only reliable way to alert you and your family.

9. Heat Exchanger

Your furnace heat exchanger must be cleaned with a brush and vacuum at least once per year. Have your HVAC professional check for any cracks, as well. A cracked heat exchanger must be replaced as soon as possible to keep your furnace safe; otherwise, it will lead to hazardous carbon monoxide gas leakage.

Expert Furnace Inspection And Service

Have the professionals get your home winter ready! In the Vaughan area, Husky’s trained technicians will take care of your heating unit for you — whether you need expert furnace inspection, maintenance, repair, or replacement.

BOOK YOUR FURNACE CHECKUP – HAVE YOUR FILTERS CHECKED BEFORE FALL