Even though fall just arrived, it’s not too early to prepare for winter weather. Your home heating system is chiefly responsible for keeping your house comfortable and cozy for the next couple of seasons. That means you should do everything to can to ensure it’s in tip-top shape. Overwhelmed just thinking about it? Never fear. Here are five easy steps that will cover your heating bases and keep you and your family warm all winter long.

1. Check and change the filters: Your HVAC system filters should be changed regularly (sometimes as often as every month). But it’s not uncommon for people to forget. If you can’t recall the last time you changed or cleaned your air filters, do so straight away. Keep up with this maintenance throughout the year. In most cases, you should clean or change your filter every month to every 90 days, depending on how frequently you run your system. This will keep your system running smoothly and ensure the air that you and your family breathe is as clean as can be.
2. Install a programmable thermostat: If you don’t yet have a programmable thermostat, you may be paying more than necessary to keep your home comfortable. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature during certain times (i.e., when you’re away at work or when you’re asleep) and consequently save you money on your bills. This is a lot more efficient than trying to remember to adjust the heat yourself. Have a programmable thermostat but aren’t sure it’s working well? Contact your HVAC service to check it out.
3. Find and seal leaks: While locating and sealing leaks in your home may not seem like an obvious step, it’s one that will keep your indoor heating system working as it should. When you have a drafty home, warm air can escape. That means your home heating system will have to work much harder to compensate. All that extra stress translates into higher bills and possibly a reduced lifespan for your HVAC system. It’s best to find these leaks now before the temperatures really start to drop. That way, you’ll be a lot more comfortable and will save money all winter.
4. Get an inspection: Whether you have a relatively new heating system or yours has been installed for several years, regular inspections are a must. Getting your home heating system serviced by a technician can drastically reduce the chances of having to deal with an HVAC emergency during the colder months. Getting an inspection can allow you to identify small issues early, which means you’ll have more options than emergency replacement or repairs.
5. Repair or replace when necessary: Above all, if you do find problems with your HVAC system (either via a professional inspection or your own observations), get them fixed right away. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse. Although you might not relish the cost of repairs, that price will continue to grow the longer it goes untreated. You’ll save money, time, and frustration by repairing or replacing equipment as soon as you know it’s needed.

Preparing your heating system for fall and winter can seem daunting, but it’s fairly straightforward. As long as you follow these steps and seek out professional assistance, you’ll be all set once those cold winds start to blow.