Fall is on the way!

As you pull out your pumpkin decor and stock up on seasonal treats, don’t forget to prep your furnace for the colder months ahead. A few quick checks now can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs later.

Pro tip: Keep your owner’s manual nearby. It’s your best tool for safe and accurate maintenance.

Why a Fall Furnace Tune-Up Matters

Even if your furnace worked fine last winter, fall is the ideal time to check in. Here’s why:

1. Comfort

A cold house is never fun. If a storm causes a power outage and your furnace was already on the fritz, it could take longer to get things working again. Scheduling a tune-up now also means beating the seasonal rush, so pros are more available if needed.

Pro tip: Most furnaces won’t run during a power outage. Don’t attempt a DIY workaround. Instead, consider investing in a generator for peace of mind.

2. Safety

Routine maintenance helps catch early signs of trouble. Whether your furnace runs on oil or gas, keeping it in good shape can help you prevent fires or electrical issues. Watch for:

  • Pooled water around the unit
  • Rodent droppings (a sign pests may be chewing wires)
  • A yellow pilot light (can indicate poor ventilation or carbon monoxide concerns)

3. Holiday Ready

Make sure your home is warm and welcoming for the holidays. A little effort now helps you avoid surprises just when guests are arriving—or when the turkey is in the oven.

Your Fall Furnace Maintenance Checklist

A professional tune-up usually takes about two hours. But in between visits, this quick checklist can help you keep things running smoothly in just 20–30 minutes.

Start with the HVAC System

Before touching the furnace, give the full system a once-over:

  • Remove all vent covers. Wipe them down with mild soap and water.
  • While they dry, vacuum the inside of your vents.
  • Return the dry covers to their places.

Furnace TLC Checklist

  • Check the pilot light. A blue flame is good. If it’s yellow, stop and call a professional.
  • If everything looks and smells fine, turn off the furnace before starting.

Step-by-Step Furnace Cleaning

Step 1 – Blower Unit:

Access the blower (refer to your manual). Carefully remove it, vacuum away dust and debris, and replace it.

Step 2 – Burner:

Repeat the same process for the burner.

Step 3 – Flue Pipe:

Check the pipe for debris. Use gloves to remove larger items and vacuum out the rest.

Step 4 – Condensate Line:

Outside, find the end of your condensate line and wipe away buildup. At the access point, remove the cap and pour in a cup of distilled white vinegar. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then flush with water.

Step 5 – Access Panel and Floor:

Vacuum the grate on the access panel, clear the area around the furnace, and wipe down the panel with a damp microfiber cloth.

Step 6 – Turn the furnace back on.

Enjoy the warmth!

Pro tip: If anything smells, sounds, or looks off during your cleaning, stop and call a licensed HVAC technician before turning the system back on.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Not sure if your furnace needs emergency maintenance? Look out for:

  • Short cycling (shutting off too quickly)
  • Needing to reset the thermostat often
  • Strange smells (burning, propane)
  • Hissing sounds (possible gas leak)
  • A hot circuit breaker
  • Circuit breaker frequently tripping

Pro tip: If these issues persist after your maintenance routine, call a professional. Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a major repair.

With just a little effort, you can make sure your furnace is ready for the season ahead—safe, efficient, and ready to keep your home cozy through fall and winter.

Click HERE to get your free quote today!