Golden leaves are falling around, and the air has a slight chill to it.
Before long, there may be a blanket of snow on the ground.
Even if you live in a warmer part of the country, you'll be experiencing the coldest temperatures of the year in just a few short months.
It's time to get your heating system up and ready.
Whether you have a furnace, a central HVAC system, or a fireplace, here are a few key steps you need to take to make sure everything is in top shape and ready for use: Get a Routine Inspection You should hire a professional to perform a routine inspection of your heating system each year before the season begins.
The provider will determine if your unit needs to be repaired, cleaned, or otherwise serviced.
The inspection can ensure that you can heat your home safely all season long.
Book an inspection of your fireplace simultaneously to save time and money.
Replace the Filter A dirty filter can create a fire hazard or make your heating unit operate less efficiently.
The perfect time to replace the filter is just before the cold winter sets in.
You can easily do the job yourself, but if you don't feel comfortable doing it, you can ask your service provider to replace it during the inspection.
Inspect the Vents Make sure all the air vents are open and unblocked by furniture to ensure even distribution of heat throughout your home.
Also ensure that the vents and the ducts are free of dust and debris, which can become fire hazards.
Turn the dampers to ensure that air is flowing where you want it to go.
Making these small adjustments can have a big impact on the efficiency of your system and on your overall energy costs.
Start Using the Setback Thermostat If you aren't using the setback thermostat already, now is the time to learn how.
The thermostat allows you to create a schedule for your heating system, turning down the temperature during the day when you are at work or at other times during the day when you know you won't be present.
The schedule will also adjust the temperature to where you want it when you're due to arrive home, ensuring your comfort.
Making these changes can help you save significantly on energy costs.
Clean Your Chimney An accumulation of soot and other chemicals, such as creosote, can create a fire hazard in your chimney.
A fire could easily spread to your roof, moving onto your home.
Hire a reputable chimney sweep to clean your fireplace and all the internal parts.
Your fireplace will be safe to use for the whole year.
Your heating system is integral to your comfort throughout the winter.
Don't get caught in the cold this season.
Take these steps to get your system in top shape and ensure that you maintain a warm and cozy internal environment all season long.
Hot cocoa and marshmallows are up to you.