7 Ways To Prepare Your Heating System During Fall

As the days grow shorter in Salt Lake City, UT, and the leaves begin to change, indicating that it’s time to swap out your dirty soda for hot cocoa. But before you get too comfy settling into the winter season, there’s one more task to add to your fall prep list—your heating system!

Just like you would not ignore a squeaky door or a leaky faucet, your heating system deserves a little TLC before the chill hits. After all, it’s about to be the MVP of your home, working tirelessly to keep you warm while you binge-watch your favorite spooky season shows.

When you properly maintain your system with the help of Just Right Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, you’ll enjoy better efficiency and prevent unexpected breakdowns, especially when you need heat the most.

Winterize Your Heating System

Fall is the perfect time to ensure your heating system is ready to keep your Salt Lake City home warm throughout winter. A little preparation now can help you avoid breakdowns, inefficiency, or those dreaded mid-winter repair bills.

Here are 7 essential ways to get your heating system in top shape, ensuring it’s ready to tackle whatever frosty challenges fall throws your way!

1. Schedule a Professional Inspection

The first step in preparing your heat pump or gas furnace for the cold season in Utah is to schedule a professional inspection.

One of Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling’s licensed technicians will check for any potential issues, clean the system, and make necessary adjustments to ensure it operates efficiently. Our heating system inspections can identify problems you might not notice, such as heat exchanger cracks or thermostat issues.

2. Replace Air Filters

Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency of your heating system. Over time, they accumulate dust and debris, which can restrict airflow and force the heating system in your Salt Lake City home to work harder. This not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to breakdowns.

Replace your air filters at the beginning of the fall season and check them monthly. Clean or replace them as needed to keep the air flowing freely. 

3. Clean Ductwork and Vents

Dust and debris can also accumulate in your ductwork and vents, reducing the efficiency of your heating system and affecting indoor air quality. Cleaning these components helps ensure that warm air can circulate freely throughout your CITY home. You can hire a Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling professional to clean your ducts, or if you prefer a DIY approach, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove dust from accessible areas.

4. Test Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is the control center for your heating system, so it’s essential to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Test your thermostat by setting it to a higher temperature and listening for the system to kick on. If there’s no response, it may be time to replace the batteries or upgrade to a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for various times of the day, which can enhance comfort and save energy.

5. Check and Seal Leaks

Leaks in your Salt Lake City home’s ductwork or around windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss, causing your heating system to work harder and increasing your energy bills. Inspect your ductwork for any visible leaks and seal them with duct tape or mastic sealant.

Additionally, check for drafts around windows and doors and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps. Properly sealing your home can improve heating efficiency and comfort.

6. Inspect the Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is a critical component of your heating system, responsible for transferring heat to the air that circulates through your Salt Lake City home. Over time, the heat exchanger can develop cracks or other issues, compromising its performance and safety.

During your professional inspection, your Just Right Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling technician will examine the heat exchanger for any signs of wear or damage. If any issues are found, we can address them immediately to prevent potential hazards.

7. Clear the Area Around Your Heating System

Finally, ensure that the area around your heating system is clear of any obstructions. This includes removing any items stored near the furnace or boiler, as well as ensuring there’s adequate ventilation. A clutter-free area not only enhances safety but also allows the system to operate more efficiently. Additionally, make sure outdoor units, such as heat pumps, are free of debris, vegetation, or snow pile-up that could obstruct airflow.

Talk to Our Team Today

By following these seven steps, you can ensure your heating system is ready to keep your Salt Lake City, UT home warm and cozy throughout the fall and winter months. Take the time now to prepare your heating system so you can enjoy comfortable and worry-free seasons.

Invest in our maintenance program and enjoy service reminders and a 6-month No-Breakdown Guarantee with your tune-up.

For heating system maintenance, speak with a service expert from Just Right Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at 801-923-7924 or schedule online.