Fall Is On It’s Way: Is Your Heating System Ready?

As summer comes to a close, chilly days are surely ahead. And with autumn’s promise of falling temperatures, it’s almost time to crank up your home’s heating system. This is why now is when homeowners should inspect their furnaces and residential boilers. To do an initial inspection of how your heating system is running, turn it on temporarily and ask yourself the following questions.

Does your heat warm you up when it’s on?
This may seem like too simple of a question, but it is something that is easily ignored early in the season. Pay attention to whether you feel warmer when the heat goes on. Check the vents for airflow and keep an eye on your thermostat. If you are noticing slow temperature changes, or little change at all, call an HVAC contractor to come inspect your furnace and vents.

Is your furnace making any strange noises?
When your furnace starts up, listen for any bangs. These may indicate that your burners are dirty or there are issues with your air ducts. If you hear a metallic scraping sound, there is likely an issue with your blower wheel. If you hear either of these noises, turn your furnace off while you wait for repairs to prevent any other damage.

Is your shower running cold too quickly?
During the summer, ending your shower with cold water can be refreshing, but this will be an unwelcome surprise in the fall and winter. If your hot water just isn’t lasting anymore, you likely need to hire a company that specializes in residential boilers. They can recommend repair or replacement for your system.

How long have you had your furnace?
Furnaces generally last 15 to 18 years. If your furnace is nearing this age or has surpassed it, you may consider purchasing a new one. A heating and cooling professional can give you recommendations for your next furnace.

By checking your heating systems now, you can catch any problems before you need to rely on your furnace and water heater. This way, repairs and replacements will be done before the weather gets cold. By hiring the best skilled workers for the job, you can rest assured that your family will be comfortable in the months to come.