Fall is on the horizon…bringing with it pumpkin spice, crunchy leaf piles, and cooler temps. Is your home heating system ready to get to work?

If you’re in the Butler, PA area, make 1 Stop Heating & Cooling your trusting team for all heating and cooling services. We’re experienced, licensed, insured, and we always put our customers first, personalizing each and every service to your specific needs.

Ready to book your appointment? Give us a call or book with us online today.

Getting Your Heating System Ready for Fall

So, what are the best steps to take to get your heating system ready for fall weather?

  • Schedule a Professional Inspection: Before the cold weather sets in, have one of our licensed HVAC technicians inspect your heating system. This will include checking all components of your furnace or boiler to ensure everything is functioning properly. We’ll look for signs of wear and tear, identify any potential issues, and make necessary repairs and maintenance recommendations.
  • Change Your Air Filters: Your heating system’s air filters play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. Unfortunately, over time, filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and other particles, which can restrict airflow and force your system to work harder than necessary. Replacing old filters with new ones ensures that air flows freely through your system, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating or breakdowns.
  • Have Your Vents & Ducts Cleaned: Dust, debris, mold, and even animal nests and droppings can accumulate in your vents and ductwork over time – impacting both air quality and system performance. Having your vents and ducts professionally cleaned before the heating season ensures heightened efficiency and cleaner air for your home.
  • Test Your Thermostat: Your thermostat is the control center for your heating system, so it’s important to make sure it’s functioning correctly. Test your thermostat by setting it to a higher temperature and ensuring that your heating system responds as expected. If your thermostat is old or inaccurate, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat.
original infographic for a fall heating system checklist
  • Check for Leaks: Leaks in your heating system, whether in the ductwork or the boiler, can lead to significant energy loss and higher heating bills. Check for any visible signs of leaks, such as water pooling around the boiler or furnace, or gaps in duct joints. If you detect any leaks, it’s important to have them repaired by a professional as soon as possible.
  • Clean the Area Around the Heater: The area around your furnace, boiler, or heat pump should be clear of any clutter or obstructions. Items stored too close to your heating system can pose a fire hazard and obstruct airflow, reducing efficiency. Take the time to clear away any debris, dust, or items that may have accumulated around the heater during the warmer months.
  • Inspect Your Home Insulation: Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warmer during the winter months. Inspect your attic, walls, and basement to ensure that insulation is intact and sufficient. If you notice any areas where insulation is thin or damaged, consider adding more or replacing it.
  • Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if it accumulates in your home. Heating systems, especially those that burn fuel, can produce carbon monoxide if they are not functioning properly. Before the heating season begins, test all carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure they are working correctly. Replace batteries if necessary and make sure detectors are placed in key areas, such as near bedrooms and in the same room as the heating system.
  • Review & Adjust Heating Settings: Take a moment to review the settings on your heating system and thermostat to ensure they are optimized for the upcoming season. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to a schedule that matches your daily routine, lowering the temperature when you’re away or sleeping and raising it when you’re home.

Get Your Heating System Inspection Booked Now!

You may be thinking… It’s still summer. Why should I book my heating inspection now? 

Well, now – while summer is still here and the weather is still warm – is actually the ideal time to get this maintenance done! First and foremost, you’ll beat the rush that tends to occur when temps drop. Usually, homeowners don’t even think about their heating system until they need to use it, which means we get lots of calls during those first few weeks after temps officially lower for good. Getting it done now means you’ll be all set, while everyone else is scrambling.

This also means you won’t be caught off guard if, when you go to use your system, you find out it’s not working right. A thorough inspection now ensures any issues are caught early, preventing inconvenient and potentially costly breakdowns – and leaving your household shivering while you wait for an appointment.

And remember – just because your system may appear to be working fine, doesn’t mean everything is functioning as well as it could. An efficiently running system not only keeps you warmer, but also helps lower your energy bills, so getting a professional in to track down any minor issues or imperfections could pay off a lot down the line.

Book Your Fall HVAC Maintenance Now

All in all, the better you keep up with maintenance, the more efficiently your system will run – and the longer it’ll last for your household. Save time, stress, and overall costs by booking your next inspection with us today.