There’s already a chill in the air, which means the cold Wisconsin winter isn’t far away. Your furnace works tirelessly to keep your house comfortable through the coldest months of the year, but it might need a little attention before the season hits. The following guide outlines a few tips to ensure your home's heating system is ready for the weather ahead.

How to Get Your Furnace Ready for Cold Weather

1. Change the Filters

Changing the air filters is the most effective task you can complete to keep a furnace working smoothly. This part collects dust, dirt, hair, pet dander, and other debris to keep it from recirculating throughout the house. If the screen is clogged, the blower assembly will have to work harder to draw in enough air, causing excessive wear to the unit and driving up utility expenses.

At the start of winter, the filter may have been sitting unused for several months. Switch it out for a new one before firing up the furnace for the first time, and clean or change it every month until spring arrives.

2. Clean Up Around the Unit

Over the summer, boxes, sports equipment, and other items may have gotten stacked around the furnace. Not only does this restrict airflow around the heater, but it can also present a fire hazard. Whether the unit is in the garage, basement, or a utility closet, dust off the unit's exterior and move all belongings at least 3 feet away.

3. Test Fire the Furnace

Firing up your furnace for a test in the fall helps you identify any problems before winter begins. Turn the thermostat up until the unit cycles on, and listen carefully for unusual noises. Popping or banging could mean the burners are clogged, while squealing usually indicates a problem with the belt.

Strange smells could also signal mold growth in the ducts, a cracked heat exchanger, or a variety of other issues. Have any unusual activity checked out by a professional to avoid breakdowns in the dead of winter when you need heat the most.

For over 40 years, Wisconsin homeowners have relied on Dousman LP Gas to keep their furnaces running through the winter. Each of their technicians is dedicated to providing the best service possible. Their team has the training to handle a wide range of tasks, from installing tanks and delivering gas to performing heating repairs. Visit their website for more on their HVAC services, or call (262) 965-2679 to schedule an inspection.