At the time of this writing, we’re comfortably in the in-between pocket of summer and fall here in Oswego, Yorkville, Naperville, Aurora and Plainfield (IL). It’s neither too hot nor too cold, allowing us to open the windows for pleasantly temperate air as well as picturesque views of the colors starting to show around the house and the yard.
It’s not typically a time when our thoughts are occupied with our heating system. Pretty soon, though, we’ll be firing up the furnace again for another trip through the increasingly chilly Midwestern months.
With that in mind, now’s a good time to keep an eye on the near future while enjoying the present. As your community resource for comfortable, safe HVAC and greater air quality at home, we’ll discuss what to expect and plan for as you once again activate the big steel soldier that will spring into to duty in keeping you warm.
As you’re preparing to turn on the furnace for the first time, you’ll want to be mindful of some things. You might notice others as well. We’ll cover those here.
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: Burners
The burners enable a gas furnace’s ignition system by allowing gas and air to mix and then burn to create the heat for your home. Since your furnace’s last operation in late winter or early spring, the air-supply system may have deposited dirt and dust on the burners, which also can contribute to rust.
Before starting up the furnace, make sure the burners are clean and that they’re properly lighting. Burners that are working correctly will support greater safety and system performance. If you’re unsure of how to clean the burners and determine if they’re sufficiently operative, simply let us know – we’ll be glad to help you.
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: CO2 Detectors
Because the heating system has been dormant for a while, you might not always be certain of how it will behave when you turn it on for the first time again, particularly if it hasn’t had maintenance yet.
A main hazard of a furnace that is malfunctioning upon new start-up is leaking carbon monoxide. In addition to scheduling fall furnace maintenance if you haven’t already, ensure that all of your home’s CO2 detectors are in good working order with fresh batteries. While you’re at it, check your home’s smoke alarms as well.
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: Air Flow & Vents
As you’re activating your system at the start of the season, verify that nothing will interfere with proper airflow. This includes keeping the unit clear of foliage or debris if it’s outside or removing any nearby obstructing or flammable items such as newspapers or boxes if it is inside. Wherever the unit is located, it should have at least a few feet of clearance all around it.
Similarly, the indoor return and supply vents should be clear of items such as shoes, rugs, curtains, clothing or furniture.
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: Test the Thermostat
Once you’ve taken some of the prep steps that we’ve discussed, set the thermostat to a couple of degrees higher than the current inside temperature.
If you know the air filter in the furnace is clean enough for good operation, set the thermostat’s switch to “heat” and turn on the furnace. If the system fires up and reaches your set temperature, you’re good to go!
If it doesn’t turn on, check whether the batteries need replacing. If the batteries are good and the furnace still won’t activate, call Air Dynamics and we can walk you through some additional troubleshooting.
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: Burning Smell
Let the furnace run for five minutes after starting it. If you detect a burning smell at first, don’t be alarmed. The unit has been dormant for months, so when it re-activates it will burn off any dust that gathered on the heat exchanger or electrical components.
You can open windows to help air out a burning smell or any other start-up odors. The burning smell should last perhaps a few hours at most. If you smell any odors for a longer period, or if you continue to notice them during subsequent operation or later in the heating season, there might be something else wrong with the system, so be sure to let us know at Air Dynamics.
One common cause of dust accumulation that leads to a burning smell is a clogged or dirty air filter, which will force dust to avoid the filter and build up elsewhere. A dirty filter also can force the air handler to work harder and make the blower motor overheat. Be sure to check the filter regularly. Electrical issues such as frayed or damaged wiring can create a burning smell as well.
Beyond inspecting the filter often, you can help prevent burning smells and system overheating by scheduling your annual fall furnace maintenance. Just give us a call!
Turning On the Furnace in Fall: Other Home Prep
As the furnace continues to run this fall at your home in Oswego, Yorkville, Naperville, Aurora or Plainfield, you can further support an efficient heating system by:
winterizing your doors and windows, such as with weather stripping or draft stoppers
inspecting the home for any gaps or cracks and filling them
ensuring sufficient insulation in attics, walls and floors
examining the ducts for any gaps, cracks or leaks; if you’re unsure of how to inspect and clean ducts, Air Dynamics can help you!
Fall Furnace Performance & Maintenance: Contact Us Today
A furnace that starts from the get-go is a big box checked off for home heating. A well-kept furnace contributes to comfort, energy savings and fewer repair costs. Air Dynamics is here to answer your questions and resolve any concerns you might have about your system. If you’d like to discuss your furnace or schedule your fall maintenance in Oswego, Yorkville, Naperville, Aurora or Plainfield (IL), call us today at (630) 731-1550!
