Furnaces need care over their years of service to keep them in good working order. A properly maintained system will deliver maximum heat output to your home without wasted energy or the risk of harmful emissions. Use the following tips to ensure your home furnace operates optimally when it's cold outside.

Start Early

When the snow is falling and the wind is blowing, you don't want to have to worry about your furnace, you just want to curl up with your family and some hot cocoa and trust that things will work as they should.

Ideally, schedule your service appointment before the first time your furnace is needed this season. September/October are perfect times. Getting an early jump on your annual maintenance will give you plenty of time to make any repairs. A pre-winter check can also clear out soot, dust, and other deposits that can damage furnaces or lead to inefficient heating.

Read More: Homeowner’s Guide to Boiler Maintenance

Change the Air Filter

When you consistently change your air filter, you can save you 5-15 percent on your energy bill. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended time for filter changes and check your furnace filter monthly to determine if a change is needed sooner. Some homeowners also find it easier to simply replace the filter on the first day of every month.

Clean the Vents

Warm air is forced into different rooms through vents. Keeping these clean can affect how much effort the furnace has to use to heat a house. Cleaning the vents can be as simple as removing the registers and vacuuming out the duct. Keeping vents clean is also good for air quality and reduces dust, pollen and other allergens around your house.

Pay Attention to Any Noises

Any unusual noise coming from a furnace can be a sign of a problem. If your furnace makes a weird noise upon use, contact a professional to take a look and prevent any future issues during the cold weather.

Be Wary of Any Smells

The first time your furnace kicks on in the season, there may be a smoky smell like something burning that comes out of your vents. This can be a sign of any number of potential problems with your HVAC system, some of which can be dangerous to you and your family.

When it comes time to get your furnace checked out, remember that A. Borrelli is your source for HVAC in Westchester.