The best thing to do is schedule maintenance before the heating season is in full swing. But, if you’re not ready for that, there are a few steps you can take:
- Before you do anything, inspect your unit to make sure nothing flammable has been stored next to the furnace over the summer.
- Be sure to run your heater before you need it to eliminate the chance it won’t work on the first cold night you turn it on.
- Dirty air filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency – sometimes even damaging your unit. Change the filters regularly.
- Check all access panels to be sure they are secure, with screws in place.
