When the leaves begin to change color, the days get shorter and the evenings get cooler, it’s time to start thinking about readying your home for the fast approaching winter months. It won’t be long before cold weather and snow will be swooping in. Make sure that your heating system is eco-friendly and up for the big tasks ahead by following these four tips.

Book a Maintenance Appointment

The last thing you want is for your furnace to quit working in the dead of winter. Have a HVAC expert visit your home to inspect and clean your furnace. They’ll make sure that the unit is running correctly and efficiently, and that it doesn’t require any repairs. If there are problems that need to be fixed, they’ll let you know what they are. If you can’t put off heating repair any longer, contact a company like HomeSmart from Xcel Energy.

Change the Filter

Most people don’t regularly look at their furnace and odds are that the filter is filled with debris from winters past. When the furnace filter is dirty, the system has to work much harder. It will use up more fuel and the life of the unit could even decline. Make sure that you have enough filters to last through the season and remember to change it monthly during the months that you’re using the furnace.

Check the Furnace Vents

If the vents of your furnace are clogged, it will have to work harder to warm your home. Before the winter season rolls in, make sure to thoroughly wash the covers of the vents. Also, you shouldn’t put furniture or heavy items on the vents during the off season and you certainly need to keep the vents clear while the furnace is being used.

Check the Ducts

If a furnace duct is leaking or if it’s come apart, you could be losing heated air before it ever warms your home. Not only will your home stay chillier than you want it to, but you’ll pay a lot for all that wasted heat. Double check all of the ducts and connections to ensure that no warm air will escape. Do this before you use the furnace for the first time this year.

If you want to stay comfortable and cozy all winter long, make sure to have your heating unit checked and updated in plenty of time. Prepare your furnace for the first day of winter and make sure it runs properly throughout the entire season.