As the leaves begin to change, it’s a sign that Kentuckians will soon have to decide when to turn up the heat. Cold fronts and late heat waves complicate matters as we try to keep the indoors comfortable without having high heating bills.

5 Things To Consider Before Touching the Thermostat

1. Heating System Maintenance Is Essential

   An important first step is keeping your HVAC or furnace in good working order is a service call before winter arrives.

2. Maintain Comfortable Indoor Temperatures

   Whether you prefer 65 or 70 F, consider what is best for all people living in the house. Give special attention to children and elderly residents who may need warmer temperatures.

3. Focus on the Inside

   Too many people adjust their thermostat based on outside temperatures. If you have energy efficient construction and windows, your house may handle cold weather better.

4. Never Procrastinate

   If your home gets too cold, upholstery and other household items may absorb moisture. Temperatures above 64 F prevent problems created by excessive humidity.

5. Adjust for Chilly Nights

   Many prefer warmer temperatures while sleeping. If you turn up the heat at night, consider lowering it after the sun rises.

8 Steps To Prepare Your Furnace for Fall

1. Inspect the Area Around the Furnace

   Items near your furnace may create an unsafe environment or increase the possibility of a fire. For external units, trim nearby shrubs and give the unit room to “breathe.” For internal units,  whether in the house or the garage, ensure that nothing flammable is nearby.

2. Check the Filter

   Dirty filters prevent proper airflow and require more effort from your heater to maintain comfortable temperatures. Regularly clean or replace the filter. Keep track of when you last changed the filter.

3. Examine Ducts and Vents

   Clean or vacuum around these areas. Remove any items blocking airflow. Dust, dander and hair compromise airflow and may make allergies worse.

4. Check Safety Detectors
   Inspect smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before cold temperatures arrive. Replace them if necessary, especially if your furnace uses natural gas or oil to generate heat.

5. Test the System

   Once you’ve performed the previous steps, run the system. You may notice a smell when the burners activate. If the burning smell persists, or if you notice any other problems, schedule a service call immediately.

6. Seal Any Gaps

   Openings in doors and windows allow heat to escape. Consider weatherstripping or other ways to keep warm air inside.

7. Reposition Decor

   In addition to moving furniture and rugs away from vents, consider placing carpets in traffic areas to keep feet warm. Heavier curtains or drapes can help to keep the cold out.

8. Schedule Maintenance

   Regular tune-ups prolong the life of your heating system. A professional technician familiar with your furnace or HVAC should review all components before cold weather arrives.

Contact Knight’s Mechanical Today

Trust Knight’s Mechanical to prepare or repair your heating system before winter. Schedule an appointment today.