Winter is quickly approaching. Is your furnace ready for it? There are many things you can do to get your furnace ready for the colder months to come.

1. Change Your Air Filters

One of the easiest yet most forgotten tasks is to change your air filters. When your filter gets dirty and clogged, it restricts airflow and causes your heating unit to work harder to pull air through. Make sure you are changing them every 1-3 months to avoid putting added stress on your furnace.

2. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren’t just beneficial in the summertime. In fact, they work great in the winter when used correctly. Set your fans to spin clockwise. This will create a gentle updraft that’ll recirculate the heat downwards, keeping your room warmer. How does this help your furnace? When you’re using your ceiling fan in conjunction with your furnace, you can save roughly 10% on heating costs because you’ll be able to use your furnace less.

3. Test It Out

Your furnace has likely been lying dormant all summer long. Turn it on before winter comes around to make sure it’s working properly. If you’ve turned it on a couple times and notice anything strange, such as unusual sounds, smells, weak airflow or no heat at all, then contact your local HVAC contractor for an inspection/

4. Clean The Heat Exchanger

Have a professional come inspect your heat exchanger for any signs of damage, cracks, or leaks, as these are the number one cause of carbon monoxide leaks. By cleaning and checking your heat exchanger, you can make sure you don’t have any carbon monoxide leaks putting you and your family’s lives at risk.

5. Inspect Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Speaking of carbon monoxide, make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working. They alert you when there’s any signs of carbon monoxide leaks in your home so you can get out and avoid poisoning. Because carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas, it’s known as the “silent killer.” Having a working carbon monoxide detector can save a life.

6. Check Your Thermostat

Before winter arrives, make sure your thermostat shows that your home is heating up when you kick on your furnace. There might be something wrong with your thermostat if you don’t see this. If that’s the case, you’ll want to contact a professional to come out and repair it for you. If your thermostat is working as it should, now is the time to set it to the temperature you want this winter.  According to the Department of Energy, you can easily save energy in the winter by setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. 

7. Schedule Furnace Maintenance

One of the best ways you can ensure your furnace is ready for winter is to schedule furnace maintenance. In fact, you should have your furnace maintained once a year. Schedule furnace maintenance in early fall to make sure it’s ready in time for the colder temperature.