As October temperatures dip across Chicagoland, homeowners start to feel that familiar chill in the air. It’s a sign that winter isn’t far off and your home’s heating system is about to be put to the test.
Before the first cold snap hits, taking a little time to prepare your HVAC system can go a long way. A quick fall checkup helps prevent costly breakdowns, maximize performance, and ensure your home stays safe and comfortable through another Illinois winter.
Here’s a simple, homeowner-friendly checklist to get your heating system ready for the months ahead.
1. Start with the Basics: Change Your Furnace Filter
It may sound simple, but a clean air filter is the single easiest way to improve airflow and efficiency. Dirty filters force your furnace to work harder than it should, wasting energy and putting unnecessary stress on components.
Check your filter at the start of every new season. If it’s gray or clogged with dust, replace it right away. Most filters need to be changed every one to three months, especially if you have pets or live near construction.
Need replacements? You can order high-quality furnace filters directly from NextGen Mechanical’s Filter Store for fast local delivery.
2. Test Your Thermostat Before the First Freeze
Don’t wait until it’s 25 degrees outside to find out your furnace isn’t responding. Flip your thermostat from cooling to heating mode and turn it up a few degrees. The furnace should kick on within a minute or two.
As it runs, listen for unusual sounds such as grinding, rattling, or constant clicking. These are signs that something may need attention. Also, note whether warm air is blowing consistently through all vents. If not, consider professional heating system maintenance before the cold sets in.
If your thermostat is older, this is also a good time to consider an upgrade. Programmable and smart thermostats automatically adjust temperatures throughout the day, saving energy while keeping your home comfortable.
3. Clear Around Vents, Registers, and Outdoor Units
Blocked vents make it harder for warm air to circulate. Go room to room and make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains aren’t covering supply registers or returns.
Outside, remove any leaves, branches, or debris around your furnace exhaust pipes and AC condenser. For homes with high-efficiency furnaces that vent through PVC pipes, confirm that the intake and exhaust openings are clear. Blockages here can cause performance or safety issues once the snow starts to fall.
If airflow still seems uneven after clearing vents, explore our duct cleaning and ventilation services.
4. Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Any system that burns fuel produces some level of carbon monoxide (CO), so it’s essential to have detectors installed and working correctly. Test each one by pressing the “test” button and replace batteries if needed.
There should be at least one CO detector on every floor and near all sleeping areas. If your detectors are more than 5–7 years old, it’s time to replace them entirely. It’s a small step that can make a life-saving difference.
For more information on CO safety and placement guidelines, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
5. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
A well-sealed home helps your furnace work more efficiently. Walk around your windows and doors, feeling for cool air or visible gaps. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal leaks, and check that your attic insulation is still in good shape.
Even minor improvements can reduce heating costs noticeably. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing and insulating your home can cut heating expenses by up to 15–20%.
Once you’ve taken care of these simple home prep steps, it’s time to make sure the furnace itself is in top condition.
6. Schedule a Professional Furnace Tune-Up
Once you’ve handled the homeowner basics, it’s time to bring in a professional for the rest. A fall tune-up ensures your system is clean, safe, and performing efficiently before it’s working full-time.
During a tune-up, a technician will:
- Inspect and clean burners and the heat exchanger.
- Check gas connections, pressure, and ignition components.
- Test airflow, blower operation, and safety controls.
- Verify thermostat accuracy and system cycling.
- Look for early signs of wear or potential failure.
Annual service prevents minor issues from turning into major mid-winter breakdowns and helps lower your winter utility bills. It also extends the life of your equipment and helps maintain manufacturer warranties.
If your system hasn’t been serviced within the past year, October is the perfect time to schedule an appointment.
7. Consider a Maintenance Plan for Year-Round Peace of Mind
If you’d rather not think about scheduling every season, a maintenance plan can make life easier. NextGen Heating and Cooling’s Ultimate Protection Plan includes two tune-ups per year—one in the spring for cooling, one in the fall for heating—plus 25% off all repairs and parts and priority scheduling when you need service most.
At just $19.95 per system per month, it’s an affordable way to keep your HVAC equipment running smoothly without the hassle of remembering when it’s due. You’ll also earn a $100 loyalty credit each year you stay enrolled, which you can apply toward future system replacements or repairs.
Bonus Tips for Comfort and Efficiency
- Use ceiling fans wisely: Set them to spin clockwise on low speed to push warm air down from the ceiling.
- Open blinds on sunny days: Let sunlight naturally warm your rooms during the day, then close curtains at night to retain heat.
- Keep interior doors open: This promotes even airflow and reduces pressure imbalances.
These small habits help your home stay warmer and more comfortable without overworking your furnace.
Final Check: Is Your Home Ready for Winter?
If you’re unsure whether your furnace is ready and would like some peace of mind, schedule an appointment with NextGen Heating and Cooling today. Our certified technicians understand the demands of a Chicagoland winter and will make sure your system is clean, efficient, and safe for the season ahead.
Call (224) 441-3339 or reach out online to book your inspection. Your comfort, safety, and peace of mind are what matter most.
