If your heater could talk, it might have a few things to say about how it’s treated every winter. After all, it works hard to keep your home warm through every cold snap that crosses Madison, Morgan, and Limestone Counties. A little care goes a long way toward helping it run efficiently, avoid breakdowns, and last longer. Here are three heating and furnace care tips your heater wants you to know before winter sets in.

I Need To Breathe Too, Change My Filter

Your furnace’s filter is the first line of defense against dust, pet hair, and airborne debris that can clog your system. When it’s dirty, your heater has to work much harder to push air through, which means higher energy bills and unnecessary wear on the equipment.

Homeowners should check the filter every month during heavy heating use and replace it at least every 90 days, or sooner if it looks dirty. A clean filter helps improve airflow, keeps your indoor air cleaner, and lets your heater “breathe” freely.

A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Just as your car requires regular oil changes and tune-ups to continue running smoothly, your furnace benefits from regular heating maintenance. For complete peace of mind, schedule professional heater maintenance in Alabama once a year before winter begins. An HVAC technician can check and clean key components, inspect electrical connections, test airflow, and look for signs of wear and tear.

Also, make sure to keep up with these easy furnace DIY maintenance steps between professional visits:

• Change air filters regularly: Consider marking your calendar or setting a reminder in your phone to change the filter every three months.
• Keep the area around your furnace clear: Clear at least two feet of space around your unit so it can operate safely and efficiently.
• Check your vents and registers: Make sure they’re open and free from dust, furniture, or curtains that might block airflow.
• Inspect your thermostat settings: Verify your thermostat is working correctly and programmed for energy savings when you’re asleep or away.

Jackson Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers a Peace of Mind Protection Plan that includes regularly scheduled plumbing and HVAC maintenance. Members also enjoy exclusive perks like a 15% discount on repairs and priority service when it matters most.

Don’t Ignore My Warning Signs

Your furnace often gives signs that it’s struggling long before it quits. Paying attention can help you avoid expensive repairs and unexpected breakdowns, so watch for these signs that your system needs attention:

• Uneven heating: Some rooms feel warm while others stay chilly, suggesting airflow or duct problems.
• Rising energy bills: A sudden increase in costs often points to an inefficient system working harder than usual.
• Strange noises or odors: Unusual sounds or a burning smell may indicate worn parts or dust buildup.
• Frequent cycling: The system turns on and off too often, signaling thermostat issues or restricted airflow.
• Yellow pilot light: A healthy pilot flame should burn blue. Yellow or orange can mean trouble with combustion.

If you notice any of these issues, call a professional for heating repair before small problems turn into major issues.

Choose Jackson for Expert Furnace Solutions

Your heater works hard to keep your family comfortable, so give it the care it deserves by following these heating tips in Decatur and the surrounding areas. At Jackson Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our licensed technicians provide honest, reliable heating services across Madison, Morgan, and Limestone County. With same-day service, upfront pricing, and free estimates on heating installations, we make it easy to keep your furnace in top shape and your home warm all season long.

Contact Jackson Plumbing today to schedule furnace maintenance or repair in Decatur, Madison, Morgan, or Limestone County.