If you live in London, Ontario, fall is a good time to turn on your furnace and make sure it’s ready for the heating season. Don’t wait until the first really cold day to discover that your furnace isn’t working properly.
How do I start my furnace?
Starting your furnace for the heating season is simple.
- Change your thermostat from Cool to Heat.
- Set the temperature a few degrees above the current room temperature. This should create a call for heat.
- Give the furnace a few minutes to start. Some systems have a built-in delay before the furnace begins heating.
- Let the furnace run for 10 to 15 minutes. Check that warm air is coming from the vents and that the system is operating normally.
What should I do if my furnace does not start?
If your furnace doesn’t start when you turn it on for the first time, don’t wait until the first cold day to deal with it. Contact Salmon Plumbing & Heating to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.
How often should I change my furnace filter?
Your furnace filter helps keep dust and other particles out of your heating system and the air circulating through your home. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder.
Check your filter before you start your furnace for the heating season. If it is dirty, replace it with the correct size and type of filter for your furnace.
The exact replacement interval depends on the type of filter, the furnace, and conditions in your home. If you have pets, allergies, renovations or other sources of dust, you may need to check it more often.
How do I start my humidifier for the heating season?
If you have a whole-home humidifier connected to your furnace, fall is a good time to get it ready before the heating season begins. London’s dry winter air can make your home feel uncomfortable, so make sure your humidifier is ready to operate.
What should I check on my humidifier?
- Turn on the water supply to the humidifier.
- Check the humidifier pad and replace it if necessary.
- If your humidifier has a bypass damper, switch it from the summer to winter position.
- Turn on the humidifier using the control or humidistat.
- Set the humidity level, usually 40% to start.
What humidity level should I use in winter?
A setting of 40% is a good starting point for many homes.
If you notice condensation forming on the inside of your windows, turn the humidifier down. This is particularly important during our coldest days in London.
What if my humidifier isn't working?
If your humidifier isn’t producing enough humidity, the pad may need replacing, the water supply may be turned off, or the humidifier may need service. If you’re not sure how your system works, a professional can check it while servicing your furnace.
How do I shut down my air conditioner for winter?
Before the heating season starts, there are a couple of things you should do to prepare your air conditioner for the winter.
Should I turn off the breaker to my air conditioner?
Yes. Turn off the breaker for your air conditioner at the electrical panel. This helps prevent the air conditioner from being accidentally turned on during cold weather, when running the system could potentially cause damage.
Listen to our short audio guide for instructions on finding and turning off the breaker for your air conditioner.
Turn off the breaker to your air conditioner:
Should I cover my outdoor air conditioner?
If you choose to cover your outdoor air conditioning unit, make sure it is prepared properly for winter. We have a separate guide showing you how to cover your outdoor air conditioner.
How to cover your outdoor air conditioning condensing unit:
When should I change my thermostat batteries?
Fall is a good time to replace the batteries in your thermostat. While you’re at it, check the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
When should I have my furnace serviced?
Fall is a good time to schedule your annual furnace maintenance. Having your furnace professionally inspected and tuned up before the heating season can help identify potential problems and make sure your system is operating safely and efficiently.
If you own newer equipment, annual maintenance is normally required to keep your warranties in place.
Can you give me some heating season tips?
Once your furnace is running regularly, there are a few simple things you can do to keep your heating system operating safely and efficiently:
- Have your furnace professionally maintained every year. Annual maintenance can help identify potential problems and keep your furnace operating safely and efficiently.
- Keep the area around your furnace and water heater clear. Make sure air supplies aren't blocked and keep combustible materials away from gas appliances.
- Check your furnace filter regularly. A dirty filter restricts airflow and can make your furnace work harder.
- Keep your thermostat at a reasonable setting. Avoid turning the temperature down too far in an attempt to save energy, since you'll eventually have to reheat the house.
- Pay attention to unusual noises, smells or changes in performance. If something doesn't seem right, have your furnace checked before a small problem becomes a bigger one.
- If you have a new furnace, follow the manufacturer's maintenance requirements. Most warranties require regular professional maintenance.
