Fall in Chattanooga can be unpredictable. One afternoon the air conditioning is running, and by bedtime you are reaching for a blanket. Before that first truly cold night arrives, now is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready.

Give Your Heat a Test Run
Turn on your heat before you actually need it. Make sure the thermostat responds, warm air is coming through the vents and the system is not making unusual sounds. A slight dusty smell when the heat first kicks on can be normal, but persistent or unusual odors deserve attention.

Start With the Filter
Check your air filter and replace it if needed. A clean filter helps maintain proper airflow and keeps your system working efficiently. Homes with pets may need more frequent filter changes.

Walk Around Your Home
Make sure vents and returns are open and not blocked by furniture, rugs or curtains. Pay attention to rooms that are consistently warmer or cooler than others, especially in older homes, additions or renovated spaces.

Listen to Your House
Strange noises, frequent cycling, unusually long run times or difficulty maintaining a comfortable temperature can all be signs that your system needs attention.

Prepare Before the Cold Arrives
Seasonal maintenance can help identify small problems before they become inconvenient repairs. Brogan’s Heating & Air recommends preparing your system before winter arrives, because discovering your heat works perfectly on a mild fall afternoon might not be exciting.

Discovering it does not work on the coldest night of the year definitely is.