The days are getting shorter, the evenings are getting cooler, and before long, your furnace will be working around the clock again. After an Alberta summer, September is an ideal time to make sure your heating system is ready for the months ahead.
The last thing any homeowner wants is to discover a furnace problem on the first -20°C morning of the season.
While some furnace issues require a qualified professional, there are several things homeowners can check themselves to make sure their heating system is ready for another Alberta winter.
Start With Your Furnace Filter
One of the simplest things you can do is check your furnace filter.
A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder than necessary. Depending on the type of filter you use, the needs of your household, and manufacturer recommendations, filters may need to be checked or replaced regularly throughout the heating season.
If you have pets, allergies, or a particularly dusty home, you may find that your filter needs attention more frequently.
Make checking the filter part of your regular fall home-maintenance routine.
Consider a Professional Furnace Inspection
Even if your furnace appears to be working properly, September is a good time to consider having it professionally inspected and serviced.
A qualified technician can check components that aren’t accessible or appropriate for homeowners to inspect themselves and identify potential problems before they become an emergency.
An annual inspection can also give you peace of mind heading into the heating season.
Check Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is another easy place to start.
Turn your heat on before you actually need it and make sure your system responds properly. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, check your settings and make sure your heating schedule is appropriate for the upcoming season.
It’s much better to discover a thermostat problem on a cool September evening than during a January cold snap.
Make Sure Your Vents Aren’t Blocked
Take a quick walk through your home and look at your heating vents and registers.
Furniture, rugs, toys, curtains, and other household items can sometimes obstruct airflow. Keeping vents clear allows warm air to circulate more effectively throughout your home.
Don’t forget to check return-air vents as well.
Pay Attention to Unusual Sounds or Smells
Your furnace may make some normal operating sounds, but unusual noises shouldn’t simply be ignored.
Keep an eye — and ear — out for things such as:
- Unusual banging or rattling
- Persistent squealing
- Grinding noises
- Repeated cycling on and off
- Unusual smells
- Inconsistent heating throughout the home
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s worth having it checked before the heating season is in full swing.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fall is also an excellent time to check your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms.
Make sure they’re functioning properly and that batteries are replaced as recommended. If your detectors are approaching the end of their service life, consider replacing them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Carbon monoxide is particularly important to think about as furnaces and other fuel-burning appliances are used more frequently during the winter.
Don’t Forget About Your Vents and Exterior Exhaust
If your home has exterior furnace or appliance exhaust vents, make sure they’re accessible and aren’t blocked by debris.
Once winter arrives, snow and ice can accumulate around exterior vents, so it’s important to know where they are and keep them clear as needed.
Take a Look at Your Heating Bills
Your heating system isn’t just about comfort — it can also have a significant impact on your household budget.
If your heating costs have increased noticeably or your furnace seems to be running constantly, it may be worth investigating why.
Sometimes the issue may be as simple as a filter that needs changing. In other cases, it could point to insulation, air leakage, equipment efficiency, or another issue that deserves professional attention.
September Is the Time to Prepare
Your furnace is one of the most important systems in your home, particularly here in Alberta. Spending a little time preparing it before winter arrives can help you catch potential problems early and avoid an inconvenient breakdown when you need your heating system most.
And remember, not every furnace issue is a DIY project. When in doubt, have a qualified professional take a look.
A little preparation in September can make for a much more comfortable winter.