The first cold snap in Niagara usually hits in October. That's also when our phones light up with furnaces that won't start. Most of those calls could have been avoided with a quick look in September. Here's what to check.

1. Swap the filter

Cheapest fix on this list. A clogged filter makes the furnace work harder, cuts airflow, and can trip the high-limit switch. If you can't remember when you changed it, change it.

2. Clear the vents and returns

Walk the house. Move the couch off the register. Pull the box out of the way of the return. Blocked airflow is the number one reason a room stays cold while the rest of the house is fine.

3. Look at the flue and exhaust

If you've got a high-efficiency unit, the PVC pipes outside should be clear of leaves, nests, and dirt. A blocked intake or exhaust shuts the furnace down for safety.

4. Test it before you need it

Set the thermostat to heat, bump it a few degrees, and wait. You want a smooth start, steady blower, no burning smell after the first minute. Weird noises or short cycling mean call someone now, not in November.

5. Check the CO detector

Fresh batteries. Press the test button. If it's more than seven years old, replace it. This one isn't optional.

When to call us

If the furnace is over 15 years old, has skipped a couple of tune-ups, or did anything strange in step four, book a fall inspection. We'll clean the burners, check the heat exchanger, test the ignition, and make sure you're set for winter.

REMEDY serves Welland, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, and the surrounding region. Call or book online.