As the leaves change and temperatures start to dip, it’s time to get serious about your furnace. Fall is the perfect season for heating maintenance in Framingham, ensuring your system runs smoothly and keeps your home warm all winter long. At Obie Comfort Solutions, we want to help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your furnace in top shape. Here are seven must-do steps to check off before the cold hits.
1. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
A professional furnace tune-up is the cornerstone of fall maintenance. A certified technician will inspect, clean, and adjust your system to improve efficiency and catch any early signs of trouble. This not only helps your furnace run more reliably but can also lower your energy bills.
2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
Dirty filters reduce airflow and make your furnace work harder, leading to higher energy use and possible damage. Make it a habit to check your furnace filter monthly during the heating season. Replace or clean it as needed — typically every 1 to 3 months — for cleaner air and better performance.
3. Inspect the Thermostat Settings
Sometimes the problem isn’t the furnace itself but the thermostat. Ensure your thermostat is set to “heat” and programmed for your schedule. If your thermostat is outdated, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which can save you money and keep your home comfortable.
4. Check the Vents and Registers
Blocked or closed vents can cause uneven heating and put extra strain on your furnace. Walk through your home and make sure all vents and registers are open and unblocked by furniture or curtains. Clean any dust or debris to improve airflow.
5. Look for Signs of Wear or Damage
Take a close look at your furnace and the area around it. Watch for rust, cracks, or soot buildup, which could indicate a problem. Also, ensure there are no combustible materials stored near the furnace. Safety is key!
6. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your furnace runs on gas or oil, which means carbon monoxide (CO) could be a risk if there’s a leak. Test your CO detectors to make sure they’re working correctly. If you don’t have detectors installed, get them right away — they could save lives.
7. Check Your Heating System’s Pilot Light or Ignition
If your furnace has a pilot light, make sure it’s burning blue, not yellow or orange. A yellow flame could mean carbon monoxide is being produced. Newer furnaces use electronic ignition. If yours isn’t lighting properly, call a professional to inspect it.
Taking these steps now will help prevent heating headaches later and ensure your furnace is ready when the cold weather arrives. Remember, skipping regular heating maintenance in Framingham could cost you more in emergency repairs and higher energy bills down the road.
At Obie Comfort Solutions, we believe your comfort is our priority. Let us help you check off your fall furnace list and stay cozy all season long.
Call Obie Comfort Solutions today! We’re Not Comfortable Until You’re Comfortable!