Fall temperatures have arrived, and homeowners should think about when to turn on their furnaces. Don’t flip on the heater switch without taking some precautionary maintenance steps. Here are four tasks to handle before turning on the furnace this year.

Don’t Use the Furnace Until You Do These 4 Tasks

1. Consider an Upgrade

Most HVAC systems last between 10 and 15 years. If your unit is in this range, it may be time for an upgrade. Furnaces that have required frequent repairs lately are likely to give out soon, so it’s best to make the switch to a new setup now. This preemptive choice will prevent you from going without heat while you shop for a new unit. ENERGY STAR furnaces offer the most warmth for the least amount of power or fuel, so look for an HVAC equipment that features this energy efficiency rating.

2. Change the Filters 

Changing furnace filters prevents clogged ductwork and improves airflow. Swap your filter every couple of months to gain these benefits and promote better air quality. By removing filters full of dander, pollen, and dust mites, you’ll lower allergen contaminants and reduce the likelihood of respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and runny noses.

3. Get a Professional Assessment

Homeowners can benefit from scheduling professional HVAC inspections each fall to ensure their furnace is in top shape. During this assessment, they’ll investigate the airflow, thermostat calibration, and pilot light and offer suggestions to improve energy efficiency. Plus, they’ll note repairs that will keep the system running throughout the colder months.

4. Test Your Safety Devices

All houses should feature carbon monoxide and fire detectors to keep your family safe. Change the batteries in these detectors before turning on the furnace as system malfunctions can cause CO leaks or fires. This simple step could save your home and your family’s lives in the event of a furnace mishap.

Homeowners interested in furnace maintenance and repairs should contact Malone Heating & Air in Chattanooga, TN. Their expert technicians have been in business since 1980, providing unit replacements, maintenance, and repairs for commercial and residential HVAC systems. Call the Watauga Street location at (423) 624-6647 or visit their website for information on their heating services, including changing filters, fixing pilot lights, and addressing faulty thermostats.