October 17, 2025 • Furnace Maintenance
That first chilly morning in Metro Detroit has arrived, and your hand is hovering over the thermostat. Before you officially kick off the heating season, running through a quick checklist can prevent common problems, save you money on energy bills, and ensure your family's safety. Here’s what every homeowner should do before turning on the furnace for the first time.
1. Change Your Air Filter
This is the single most important and easiest task. A dirty, clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder than necessary. This wastes energy and can lead to overheating and system damage. Start every season with a fresh filter.
2. Test Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is working correctly. Switch it from "cool" to "heat" and set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. You should hear the furnace click on within a minute or so. If not, you might have a thermostat issue or a more significant problem.
3. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Your furnace needs room to breathe. Over the summer, boxes, storage bins, and other items can end up piled around it. Ensure there is at least three feet of clear space around the unit to prevent a fire hazard and allow for proper airflow.
4. Open All Your Vents and Registers
Walk through your home and check that all heating vents are open and not blocked by rugs, furniture, or drapes. Closing vents in unused rooms doesn't save money; it can actually disrupt the pressure balance in your HVAC system, reducing efficiency.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises on Start-Up
When you first turn on the heat, it's normal to smell a slight burning odor for a few minutes. That’s just dust burning off the heat exchanger. However, listen carefully for any loud banging, scraping, or rattling sounds. These could indicate a loose part or a serious mechanical issue that needs immediate attention.
The Final, Most Important Step: Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
While the steps above are crucial, nothing replaces a comprehensive safety and performance tune-up from a qualified technician. A professional inspection can spot carbon monoxide leaks, fix worn-out parts before they break, and ensure your system is running at peak efficiency for the cold months ahead.
Don't wait for a breakdown in the middle of a Michigan winter. Contact Mechanical Temp today to schedule your fall furnace tune-up and enjoy peace of mind all season long.