Fall is here, and that means sweater weather, pumpkin spice, and cozy nights at home. But before you curl up on the couch with a good book or a Netflix binge, make sure your furnace is ready for the chilly days ahead. You don’t want to wait until winter hits to find out that your heating system is not working properly. That’s why we’ve put together some essential fall furnace maintenance tips to keep your home cozy all season long!

Check the Filters

One of the easiest and most important things you can do to maintain your furnace is to inspect and change your filters regularly. Clean filters ensure efficient heating and better indoor air quality. They also prevent dust and allergens from circulating in your home, which can cause health problems and discomfort. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your filters clean and fresh.

You should check your filters at least once a month and replace them every three months or sooner if they are dirty. To check your filters, you can simply hold them up to a light source and see if any light passes through. If not, it’s time to change them. To change your filters, you can follow the instructions in your furnace manual or watch this video for a step-by-step guide.

Inspect for Leaks

Another thing you should do is check for any leaks or gaps in the ductwork. Leaks can reduce heating efficiency and waste energy, which means higher bills for you. They can also let cold air in and warm air out, making your home less comfortable. According to Energy Star, duct leaks can account for up to 30% of energy loss in a typical home. That’s a lot of wasted money and comfort!

To fix this, you can seal the leaks with duct tape or mastic sealant. Duct tape is a quick and easy solution, but it may not last long or withstand high temperatures. Mastic sealant is a more durable and effective option, but it requires more time and effort to apply. You can find both products at your local hardware store or online. To seal the leaks, you can follow these steps or watch this video for a visual demonstration.

Clean the Burners

The burners are the heart of your heating system. They produce the flame that heats the air that circulates in your home. But over time, they can accumulate debris such as dust, dirt, and rust, which can affect their performance and safety. Dirty burners can cause incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide production, and fire hazards. That’s why it’s important to keep them clean and well-maintained.

To clean them, you can use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to remove the debris. You should also inspect the flame color and shape. A steady, blue flame indicates a healthy burner, while a yellow or flickering flame indicates a problem. If you notice any issues with your burners, you should contact a professional technician for repair or replacement. To clean your burners, you can follow these steps or watch this video for a detailed explanation.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

If you have an old or manual thermostat, you might want to consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. A programmable thermostat lets you optimize temperatures according to your schedule, ensuring comfort when you’re home and savings when you’re away. You can set different temperatures for different times of the day and days of the week, depending on your preferences and habits. A smart thermostat goes one step further and learns your preferences and habits, adjusting temperatures automatically for optimal comfort and efficiency. You can also control it remotely from your smartphone or tablet.

Both types of thermostats can help you save money and energy by reducing unnecessary heating when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping. According to Energy Star, you can save up to 10% on your heating bills by lowering your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. That’s a significant amount of savings over time! To upgrade your thermostat, you can choose from various models and brands available in the market or online. You can also consult a professional installer for advice and assistance.

Inspect the Ventilation

The ventilation system is responsible for distributing warm air throughout your home. But if it’s blocked or obstructed by furniture, curtains, rugs, or other items, it can affect the heating performance and comfort of your home. Blocked vents can cause uneven heating, poor air circulation, and increased energy consumption. They can also create fire hazards if they come in contact with hot surfaces or sparks. That’s why it’s essential to inspect the vents for any blockages or obstructions and clear them if necessary.

You should also make sure that the vents are open and not closed by accident. Closed vents can create pressure imbalances in your ductwork, which can lead to leaks and inefficiency. You should also avoid placing anything on top of your floor vents, such as carpets or furniture, as they can restrict airflow and damage the vents. To inspect your ventilation, you can follow these tips or watch this video for some helpful suggestions.

Clear the Area

Last but not least, you should keep the area around your furnace clutter-free. This not only improves safety but also allows for easy access during maintenance or repairs. You should also keep flammable items such as paper, cardboard, wood, or fabric away from the furnace to prevent fire hazards. And don’t forget to install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace to alert you of any leaks or malfunctions. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas that can be produced by faulty furnaces. You should also test your smoke alarms regularly and replace the batteries as needed.

By following these easy furnace tips, you can keep your home cozy and comfortable this fall season. You can also save money on energy bills and avoid costly repairs in the future. And if you need professional help with your furnace maintenance or installation, don’t hesitate to contact us at Real Impact Group. We are experts in Toronto real estate and home improvement, and we can help you with all your needs.

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