As the temperate days of early fall fade away, you’ll soon have to rely on your furnace for around-the-clock comfort. However, after months of inactivity, how can you be sure it’s prepared for the workload? If you’re hoping to avoid HVAC repairs this season, use the following tips to ready your furnace.

3 Ways to Care for Your Furnace This Season

1. Change Filters

Just like the air conditioning unit, a furnace relies on a filter to catch and trap contaminants in your indoor air supply. During the fall and winter, your heating system will have to sift through plenty of dust, dirt, pet dander, and even some pollen.

However, as the particles accumulate, they can block airflow, decreasing the efficiency of your heating system, or sending the contaminants back into circulation. Therefore, you should replace your air filters during the fall, and every few months after that.

2. Uncover Vents

As the furnace produces heat, it sends the treated air through a maze of ductwork and out through the vents in each room. If these openings are blocked by furniture, clutter, or decorations, there could be a fire hazard. Or, it might prevent hot air from escaping the ductwork, triggering your furnace to work harder to compensate. To avoid higher utility bills and house fires, uncover all heating vents before the weather grows too cold.

3. Clean Burners

When a furnace is dormant during the warmer months, it sits in your basement, collecting dust. These particles will settle in the burners, so when you fire up the heat, it produces a stale, musty odor.

Luckily, a professional HVAC technician can clean out your burners before the coldest temperatures arrive, so you can avoid uncomfortable indoor allergies. During this time, they can also inspect the components to make sure the unit is in optimal condition.

Want a professional to take a look at your HVAC system? Get in touch with Bryant Air Conditioning, Heating, Electrical & Plumbing of Lincoln, NE. Since 1952, they have been helping residential and commercial clients find the home repair solutions they need. Whether you’re experiencing flickering lights, uneven heat, or a pipe leak, call them at (402) 467-­1111 to schedule your consultation. You can also visit the website to learn more about this recipient of the 2014 Better Business Bureau® Integrity Award.