SHOWROOM HOURS: 8:00AM to 5:00PM
A Proud Canadian HVAC Company
Menu
SHOWROOM HOURS: 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Menu
Menu
A Proud Canadian HVAC Company
Get your furnace ready for fall with these 7 simple checks. Learn how to prepare your heating system for winter with Econoair.
Replace or clean your furnace filter to maintain proper airflow.
Test your thermostat to ensure your heating system responds correctly.
Check vents and registers for obstructions.
Listen for unusual noises when starting your furnace.
Look for signs of uneven heating throughout your home.
Inspect the area around your furnace and keep it clear.
Schedule professional furnace maintenance before winter arrives.
As temperatures begin to drop across Toronto and the GTA, it’s time to start thinking about your home’s heating system. After months of relying on your air conditioner, your furnace may need a little attention before it starts working again. The last thing you want is to discover a problem on the first freezing night of the season.
Fall is the ideal time to check your furnace, address minor issues, and make sure your heating system is ready for the colder months ahead. A few simple checks can help improve airflow, identify potential problems, and keep your home comfortable when temperatures drop. While some maintenance tasks can be handled yourself, others are best left to a professional HVAC technician.
Whether you have a gas furnace, an electric heating system, or a heat pump, preparing your equipment before winter can help you avoid unexpected disruptions. Here are seven things to check before turning on your furnace this fall.
Your furnace filter plays an important role in maintaining indoor air quality and keeping your heating system running efficiently. Over the summer, dust and debris can accumulate in the filter, restricting airflow and forcing your furnace to work harder to heat your home. Before turning on your furnace, check the filter and replace it if it is dirty or clogged. If you have a reusable filter, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A clean filter helps maintain consistent airflow and can reduce unnecessary strain on your heating system.
Before the temperatures drop, make sure your thermostat is working properly. Switch it from cooling to heating mode and set the temperature a few degrees above your current indoor temperature. Your furnace should respond by starting a heating cycle. If the system doesn’t turn on, check the thermostat settings and batteries, if applicable. A faulty thermostat can prevent your furnace from heating your home properly, so it’s worth addressing any issues before you need your heating system every day.
Blocked or closed vents can prevent warm air from circulating throughout your home. Walk through each room and make sure your supply and return vents are clear of furniture, rugs, curtains, and other obstructions. Dust can also build up around registers during the summer, so take a moment to clean them. Keeping vents unobstructed helps distribute heat more evenly and supports proper airflow throughout your home’s heating system.
When you turn on your furnace for the first time this fall, pay attention to how it sounds. While a brief startup noise is normal, persistent banging, rattling, squealing, or grinding may indicate a problem. These sounds can be caused by loose components, motor issues, or other mechanical concerns. If your furnace makes unusual noises that continue after startup, it’s best to have it inspected by an HVAC professional before the problem gets worse.
If some rooms feel noticeably colder than others, your heating system may not be distributing warm air properly. Uneven heating can result from blocked vents, ductwork leaks, airflow restrictions, or issues with your furnace. Pay attention to rooms that consistently feel colder than the rest of your home once the heating is running. Identifying these issues early can help improve comfort and prevent your furnace from working harder than necessary to maintain your desired temperature.
Before starting your heating system, take a look at the area surrounding your furnace. Make sure it is clean, dry, and free from clutter. Boxes, cleaning supplies, and other stored items should be kept away from the equipment and its required clearances. Check for visible signs of water around the unit, unusual odours, or anything that appears out of place. If you smell gas, leave the area and contact your gas utility or emergency services from a safe location. Never attempt to investigate or repair a suspected gas leak yourself.
Even if your furnace appears to be working normally, a professional inspection can help identify potential issues before winter arrives. During a furnace maintenance appointment, an HVAC technician can inspect key components, check system operation, assess airflow, and identify parts that may need attention. Regular maintenance can help support reliable performance, improve efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months of the year. Booking your furnace service in the fall also means you can address any necessary repairs before heating demand increases.
There is no specific date to turn your furnace on. In Toronto and across the GTA, most homeowners start using their furnace when outdoor temperatures consistently become uncomfortable indoors. Testing it before the first cold snap gives you time to address any problems.
Annual furnace maintenance is recommended to help keep your heating system operating safely and efficiently. Fall is a convenient time to schedule service before your furnace is working regularly throughout the winter.
Start by checking the furnace filter, thermostat, vents, and the area around your furnace. When you turn it on, listen for unusual noises and make sure your home is heating evenly.
Several issues can cause this, including a dirty filter, restricted airflow, blocked vents, ductwork problems, thermostat issues, or a furnace that is not producing enough heat. If the problem continues, an HVAC technician can inspect the system.
It depends on the type of filter, your furnace, and conditions in your home. Many filters need to be replaced every 1–3 months, but homes with pets, allergies, or higher dust levels may require more frequent changes.
a Canadian HVAC Company
Richmond Hill: 85 West Wilmot St. unit 12 Richmond Hill, Ontario L4B 1K7
Toronto: 1015 Bloor St W Second Unit 203, Toronto, Ontario M6H 1M1
Showroom hours: Mon – Fri: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Available 24/7 on phone
Saturday & Sunday: Contact by phone
After Hours & Holidays: Contact by phone
