Fall in New England can be unpredictable. One day it’s sunny and 70 degrees, and the next you’re reaching for a fleece and thinking about flipping on the heat. Before you do, it’s worth taking a few simple steps to make sure your heating system is ready.
1. Change Your Air Filter
Start with the basics. A clean air filter helps your system run more efficiently and keeps the air in your home cleaner. If you haven’t changed it in a while, do it now. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to prep for heating season.
2. Clear the Area Around Your System
Whether you have a furnace in the basement or a heat pump outside, make sure there’s nothing blocking access. Boxes, storage bins, leaves, or debris can interfere with airflow or create a fire risk. Give your equipment space to breathe.
3. Test the Thermostat
Switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode and raise the temperature a few degrees. You should hear the system kick on within a minute or two. If it doesn’t respond, or the air doesn’t warm up, you might need service before the cold sets in.
4. Listen and Smell Carefully
When the system first turns on after months of sitting idle, you may notice a slight burning smell. This is usually just dust burning off. It should go away within a few minutes. If it persists, or if you hear banging, whistling, or grinding, call a technician.
5. Bleed Radiators or Check Baseboards
If you have a hot water system with radiators or baseboard heat, you might need to bleed trapped air. This helps water circulate properly and ensures even heating throughout the house. If you’re not sure how, your HVAC technician can do it during a seasonal tune-up.
6. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Any time you begin using fuel-burning appliances, it’s a good idea to test your smoke and CO detectors. Replace batteries if needed and make sure devices are not expired.
7. Schedule a Fall Tune-Up
Annual service gives you confidence that your system is safe and working efficiently. A technician can clean burners, inspect the heat exchanger, check for leaks, and confirm that everything is running the way it should.
Ready to Stay Warm?
Taking 30 minutes to run through this checklist can save you time, money, and stress later in the season. If anything seems off, or if it’s been more than a year since your last heating service, give McKee Energy Services a call. We’re here to help you stay comfortable all season long.