As autumn settles in and the leaves start to fall, it’s time to think about preparing your home for the colder months ahead. A key part of that preparation is ensuring your furnace is ready to deliver reliable heat all winter long. While there are several steps homeowners can tackle themselves, scheduling professional furnace maintenance in Hamilton, OH, ensures your system is safe, efficient, and ready to go when temperatures drop.
1. Shut Down, Clean, and Cover the AC Unit
Before winter, your air conditioner deserves a little care. Power it off, clean away debris like leaves and grass clippings, and cover it to protect it from snow and ice. This helps extend the lifespan of your cooling system and ensures it’s ready to serve you again next summer.
2. Change the Furnace Air Filter
Your furnace filter has a big job—trapping dust, allergens, and other particles so they don’t recirculate through your home. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Replace it before the season starts, and make a habit of checking it monthly throughout the winter.
3. Clear Space Around the Furnace
Keep at least three feet of clearance around your furnace. Items stored too close not only block airflow but can also create fire hazards. Use this as an opportunity to declutter your utility area for safety and efficiency.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat to “heat” and raise the temperature a few degrees above room level. Listen for the furnace to start, and confirm warm air is coming from the vents. If your thermostat is outdated, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model for better energy control this winter.
5. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A working furnace means combustion, and safety must come first. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries, and consider upgrading if your units are over 10 years old. These small devices are critical for protecting your family.
6. Give Your Vents Some Attention
While you should avoid sticking brooms or vacuum cleaner attachments inside your actual ducts, you should still vacuum vent covers. Take a moment to move any furniture or draperies away and ensure all registers are open and unobstructed. This helps maintain even airflow throughout your home.
7. Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance
This is the most important step on your fall furnace checklist. A professional tune-up goes far beyond the DIY tasks you can handle. Our trained technicians inspect electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, check gas lines, clean burners, and test safety systems. Skipping this service can lead to inefficiency, surprise breakdowns, costly repairs, or even shortened equipment life. An expert eye ensures your furnace is ready for the months ahead, operating safely and at peak efficiency.
Trust the Pros for True Peace of Mind
DIY care is an important part of furnace prep, but professional maintenance is what protects your home, your comfort, and your investment. When you’re ready to get your furnace in top shape for winter, trust our team to handle the critical details with skill and care. Give us a call today to schedule your fall maintenance visit and enjoy a warm, worry-free season ahead.
Contact JM Mechanical Heating & Cooling today to discuss furnace maintenance in Hamilton, OH.