When the temperatures drop in Northeast Ohio, you want to feel confident that your home will stay warm and safe all season long. The best way to prepare is to schedule professional heating maintenance in Akron, OH before the first big cold snap hits. By getting ahead of the rush, you’ll avoid the stress of emergency breakdowns, long wait times, and unexpected repair costs.
Here are six things every homeowner should check to make sure their furnace is ready for another tough Akron winter.
1. Change the Air Filter
A clogged air filter makes your furnace work harder than it should, wasting energy and straining the system. Replacing or cleaning your filter at the start of the heating season ensures strong airflow, cleaner indoor air, and better efficiency.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
If your thermostat isn’t calibrated correctly, your home may feel chilly even when the furnace is running. Test your thermostat early by setting it to “heat” and raising the temperature a few degrees. If the furnace doesn’t respond, it’s a sign you may need a repair—or that your thermostat is due for replacement.
3. Check for Unusual Noises or Odors
When you first turn on your furnace, you may notice a faint burning smell from dust burning off—that’s normal. But if you detect strong odors, banging, grinding, or squealing noises, don’t ignore them. These are warning signs that your furnace needs attention before the issues escalate.
4. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Your furnace needs room to “breathe.” Remove storage boxes, cleaning supplies, or other clutter that may be crowding the area. This not only helps the system operate more safely but also makes it easier for a technician to perform a tune-up.
5. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
A properly maintained furnace is safe to operate, but testing your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors adds an extra layer of protection. Replace batteries and check expiration dates so your family is covered all winter long.
6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
The most important step in getting your furnace ready is scheduling a professional inspection and tune-up. A certified technician will clean internal components, lubricate moving parts, check electrical connections, and make sure everything is running safely and efficiently. Plus, catching small issues now helps you avoid major repairs or system failures in the middle of January when service calls are at their peak.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Freezing!
Many homeowners put off scheduling their furnace maintenance until the first freezing week of winter—when everyone else is calling, too. By booking your appointment now, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your system is prepared, and you’ll avoid the frustration of long waits or emergency charges.
Your furnace is your home’s first line of defense against an Akron winter. Take care of it before the snow starts to fly, and it will take care of you all season long. Call our friendly team today to schedule your pre-season tune-up and stay ahead of the cold!
Contact Crown Group Ohio today with any questions or to make an appointment.
