Furnace Checklist Before a Windsor Winter
Windsor's winters are milder than most of Canada's, but cold snaps still arrive. A few checks in fall help the furnace start reliably when you need it.
Request an HVAC technicianTest it early
Turn the heat on during a cool fall evening, before you rely on it. Any problem shows up while it's still mild outside and technicians are less busy.
Replace the filter
A dusty filter from summer cooling restricts airflow. Start the heating season with a fresh one and check it monthly after that.
Expect a smell
A burning-dust smell for a few minutes on the first run is normal. A smell that lasts, or any smell of gas, isn't.
Check the switch
Make sure the furnace service switch is on. It's often mistaken for a light switch and turned off by accident.
Clear the vents
Check that the outdoor vent pipes or chimney cap are clear of leaves, nests and debris before winter.
CO alarms
Test carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries. Replace alarms by the date printed on them.
Humidifier
Clean or replace the humidifier pad and turn the water supply back on for winter.
Book a tune-up
A fall check catches worn igniters, sensors and venting problems before they cause a breakdown.
More help
See furnace repair and tune-ups.
Clear the furnace room
Move boxes, paint cans and laundry away from the furnace. It needs air to burn safely, and technicians need room to work.
Thermostat batteries
Fresh thermostat batteries in the fall prevent a surprise shutdown during the first cold night.
More heating and cooling guides
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