As summer fades and the leaves start to fall, it’s time to start thinking about your heating system. Living in Winnipeg means preparing for long, cold winters, and that preparation starts now, in the fall. The last thing you want is to discover your furnace isn’t working properly when the temperature drops. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, getting ahead of the cold weather with simple maintenance tasks can save you time, money, and headaches.
Here’s a step-by-step checklist to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the chilly months ahead.
Replace or Clean Your Air Filters
One of the easiest and most important things you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is to replace or clean your air filters. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder to heat your home or business. This not only increases your energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your furnace.
What to do:
Check your air filter every month. If it’s dirty, replace it. For homes with pets or businesses with high foot traffic, you might need to replace filters more often, possibly every 1-3 months.
Inspect and Clean Ductwork
Your ductwork is critical in distributing warm air throughout your space, whether it’s your home or business. Over time, dust and debris can build up in the ducts, reducing airflow and indoor air quality. This can lead to uneven heating and, in some cases, higher energy costs.
What to do:
Look at any accessible ductwork for dust buildup or signs of leaks. If you notice excessive dust, unusual smells, or whistling sounds from your ducts, they might need a thorough cleaning. For best results, consider professional duct cleaning every few years to keep things flowing efficiently.
Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system, controlling when your furnace kicks in and how warm your space gets. A faulty or outdated thermostat can cause your system to run inefficiently, costing you money and leaving you cold when you least expect it.
What to do:
Set your thermostat to your preferred fall temperature and check if your system responds quickly. If you haven’t already, now might be a great time to consider upgrading to a new thermostat.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your furnace running efficiently, and fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional tune-up. An HVAC technician can inspect, clean, and tune your system, ensuring it’s ready to handle Winnipeg’s coldest days.
What a tune-up includes:
A professional will inspect key components such as the furnace’s heat exchanger, burners, and electrical components. They’ll also check motor amp draws and gas pressure to ensure the system is operating efficiently. Plus, a tune-up can identify small issues before they lead to costly repairs in the middle of winter.
Scheduling this service early ensures that your system is in top shape and gives you peace of mind, knowing that your heating system will perform when needed.
Inspect the Furnace and Heating Components
If your furnace has been sitting idle all summer, inspect it quickly before cranking it up. This simple step can prevent unexpected issues when the temperatures drop.
What to do:
Check for visible wear, dust, or rust around the furnace. Listen for any unusual sounds, such as banging or rattling, when the furnace turns on. You should also ensure plenty of space around the furnace to allow for proper airflow and reduce the risk of fire hazards. If you notice anything unusual, contact a professional to check it out before winter arrives.
Seal Air Leaks and Insulate
Keeping your home or business warm in Winnipeg’s extreme cold isn’t just about having a good furnace—it’s also about ensuring the heat stays inside. Air leaks around doors, windows, and ductwork can let cold air in and force your HVAC system to work harder.
What to do:
Walk around your home or business and feel for drafts near windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal any gaps. Proper insulation reduces heat loss and can help lower energy bills all winter.
Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Safety should always be a top priority with gas heating systems. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be dangerous if it builds up in your home or business due to a malfunctioning furnace.
What to do:
Make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working correctly. Test them and replace the batteries if needed. If your detectors are over 10 years old, it might be time to invest in newer models.
Inspect Vents and Registers
Blocked vents can reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency and lead to uneven heating. Take a quick walk around your home or business to ensure all vents and registers are open and clear of obstructions.
What to do:
Check that no furniture or curtains are blocking the vents. If you notice dust buildup on the vents, clean them to allow for better airflow.
Preparing your HVAC system for winter is an essential step in ensuring your home or business stays comfortable during Winnipeg’s cold season. Following this fall HVAC checklist will help ensure your system runs efficiently and reliably, saving you money on energy bills and preventing unwanted breakdowns.
At Whyte Ridge HVAC, we help with all your furnace maintenance needs. Whether it’s a fall tune-up, filter replacement, or a full system inspection, our team of professionals is ready to ensure your system is in top shape for the winter months. Contact us today to schedule your furnace maintenance and enjoy a warm, worry-free winter!
