Preparing Your Heating System for Fall in SeaTac: What to Check Now

Fall in SeaTac brings crisp mornings, cooler nights, and plenty of rain. Our Pacific Northwest climate has a way of catching homeowners off guard if heating systems aren’t prepared in advance. The last thing anyone wants is to flip on the furnace or heat pump for the first time in months, only to discover it isn’t working properly.

At Fox Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen how small issues can turn into big problems when the chilly season begins. That’s why it’s smart to do some simple checks before the temperatures really drop. With a little maintenance now, you’ll stay warm, safe, and worry-free all season long.

Steps to Take When Preparing Your Furnace for the Fall

Your furnace has been sitting idle for months, so giving it some attention before heavy use is essential. Here’s what to check:

• Replace the air filter: A dirty filter makes your furnace work harder, increases utility costs, and reduces air quality. Swapping it out every few months, and especially before fall, keeps airflow strong and your system efficient.
• Inspect the thermostat: Make sure your thermostat responds correctly when you switch from cooling to heating. If it’s old or inaccurate, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control and energy savings.
• Clear vents and registers: Blocked vents restrict airflow and strain the furnace. Take a few minutes to check each room, removing furniture or rugs that may be covering registers. This ensures heat circulates evenly through the home.
• Check the blower motor: The blower pushes warm air throughout your ductwork. Listen for unusual noises or rattling when it runs. If you hear anything odd, it’s best to have a licensed technician take a closer look.
• Test the ignition system: Modern furnaces use electronic igniters rather than pilot lights. If your furnace struggles to start or cycles on and off frequently, it may signal ignition issues that require professional repair.
• Clean around the furnace: Keep at least two feet of clearance around your furnace. Dust, boxes, or clutter in the utility room not only create a fire hazard but also restrict airflow.
• Schedule a professional tune-up: Even with DIY checks, nothing beats having a licensed technician inspect your furnace. At Fox, we provide comprehensive inspections to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with local codes.

By checking these items early, you reduce the chance of unpleasant surprises when the SeaTac rains bring in colder weather.

Steps to Take When Preparing Your Heat Pump for the Fall

Heat pumps work year-round, switching between cooling in summer and heating in fall. Because of this dual role, they need careful attention before cold weather sets in.

• Switch to heating mode: Test the system by changing the thermostat from cooling to heating. Confirm warm air flows from the vents and that the system doesn’t short-cycle or blow lukewarm air.
• Inspect the outdoor unit: SeaTac’s rainy fall often leaves leaves, branches, or debris around your outdoor heat pump. Clear vegetation and make sure the unit has at least two feet of open space for airflow.
• Clean or replace filters: Filters clog quickly with dust and pollen from summer. Replacing them before heavy fall use improves efficiency and prevents strain on your system.
• Check refrigerant lines: Look for signs of wear, damage, or frost along the refrigerant lines. Leaks reduce heating capacity and can increase energy bills. Only licensed technicians should handle refrigerant repairs.
• Listen for unusual sounds: Heat pumps should run fairly quietly. Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds can signal motor or fan issues that need professional service before the problem gets worse.
• Inspect electrical: Loose or corroded electrical components may cause system failure. During a maintenance visit, our team checks these connections for safety and performance.
• Schedule routine maintenance: Because heat pumps run year-round, annual or semi-annual maintenance is critical. A seasonal tune-up ensures reliable performance through fall and winter.

With a little preparation, your heat pump will keep your SeaTac home cozy without spikes in utility costs.

Steps to Take When Preparing Your Boiler and Water Heater for the Fall

Boilers and water heaters play a huge role in keeping SeaTac households comfortable. Neglecting them can mean cold showers and inefficient heating right when you need them most.

• Flush the water heater: Sediment builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and causing rumbling noises. Flushing it out in the fall helps extend the life of your unit.
• Check the pressure relief valve: Lift the test lever on the valve to make sure it releases water. This safety feature prevents dangerous pressure build-up. If it’s faulty, it should be replaced immediately.
• Inspect the anode rod: The anode rod prevents tank corrosion by attracting minerals. If it’s badly corroded, replacing it protects your tank and prolongs its life.
• Look for leaks or rust: Even small leaks around the boiler or water heater can lead to major water damage. Check pipes, joints, and the base of the unit for moisture or corrosion.
• Test the boiler’s pressure gauge: Boilers operate within specific pressure ranges. If your gauge shows levels outside the normal range, it may need adjustment or repair to keep the system running safely.
• Insulate water pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes helps reduce heat loss and prevents freezing during cold nights. It also ensures hot water reaches your taps faster, saving both water and energy.
• Schedule a professional inspection: Whether you have a tank or tankless water heater, or a boiler system, annual service ensures efficiency and safety. A licensed technician will catch issues you might miss.

By taking these steps now, you can count on hot water and reliable heating all season long.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters in Fall

As we close up our homes for fall, indoor air quality often takes a hit. Dust, allergens, and even moisture can build up indoors. Dirty filters, clogged ducts, and a lack of ventilation make the problem worse. By scheduling duct cleaning, changing filters, and using proper ventilation, you’ll breathe easier during the colder months. This is also the perfect time to consider installing air purifiers or humidity control systems to create a healthier living environment.

The Importance of Carbon Monoxide Safety

Heating systems that burn fuel, such as furnaces and boilers, can produce carbon monoxide if they aren’t properly maintained. This colorless, odorless gas is dangerous and can be deadly. Every fall, check or install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Make sure they’re working and replace batteries if needed. Annual inspections of heating systems by licensed technicians are critical for spotting leaks or issues that could lead to unsafe conditions. Protecting your family from carbon monoxide should always be part of fall preparation.

Contact Fox Today for Your Fall HVAC Maintenance and Tune-Ups

Seasonal maintenance is the most important step you can take to keep your heating system safe and reliable. Whether you have a furnace, heat pump, boiler, or water heater, our licensed HVAC technicians know what to look for and how to fix issues before they become emergencies.

Fox Plumbing, Heating & Cooling has been serving SeaTac and the Greater Seattle area since 1964. We’re locally owned, fully licensed, and committed to customer satisfaction. Call us today to schedule your fall HVAC tune-up and enjoy a warm, comfortable home all season long.