Late October in central Arkansas is a funny time of year. The afternoons can still feel like summer, and plenty of us are still running the AC. But the first chilly night always shows up sooner than we expect, and that’s when a lot of heating systems get switched on for the first time in months.
The good news is that a few simple checks now, while it’s still warm, can save you from a cold house and a long wait for service later.
Why it pays to check your heat now
Your heating system has been sitting idle since spring. Dust settles, batteries die, and small problems that started last winter don’t fix themselves over the summer. Most people find out something is wrong on the first cold morning, right when everyone else in town is calling for help too.
Testing things on a mild day gives you time to fix a problem on your schedule instead of the weather’s.
Simple checks you can do yourself
- Change your air filter: If you can’t remember the last time it was changed, start here. A clogged filter makes your system work harder and can cut down on the warm air reaching your rooms.
- Test-run your heat: On a cool morning or evening, switch your thermostat to heat and set it a few degrees above the room temperature. You should feel warm air within a few minutes.
- Expect a little dust smell: The first time the heat runs each fall, it’s common to smell dust burning off. That should fade quickly. If it doesn’t, turn the system off and call us.
- Replace thermostat batteries: If your thermostat uses batteries, swap them now. A dead thermostat can look a lot like a broken heater.
- Clear the vents and returns: Make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains aren’t blocking supply vents or return grilles. Your system needs open airflow to heat evenly.
- Clear around your equipment: Keep boxes, paint cans, and other stored items away from your furnace or air handler. If you have a heat pump, rake leaves and trim plants back from the outdoor unit.
- Test your carbon monoxide detectors: If you have a gas furnace or other gas appliances, press the test button and replace the batteries if needed.
A few notes for heat pump owners
Heat pumps are common around Little Rock, and they behave a little differently than a furnace. On cold, damp days you may see steam coming off the outdoor unit or hear it pause for a few minutes. That’s usually the unit defrosting itself, and it’s normal.
What isn’t normal is an outdoor unit that stays covered in ice, a system that blows cool air for long stretches, or one that seems to lean on backup or emergency heat all the time. Those are worth a call.
Signs it’s time to call a pro
- The system won’t turn on, or it blows cool air when it’s set to heat
- A burning smell that doesn’t go away, or any sign of smoke
- Loud banging, grinding, squealing, or rattling
- The system turns on and off in short bursts (short cycling)
- The breaker trips when the heat kicks on
- Some rooms stay cold no matter what the thermostat says
Safety first: If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off or you smell gas, don’t troubleshoot. Get everyone out of the house and call your gas company or 911 from outside.
Get a tune-up before the rush
A professional heating tune-up is the best way to start the season with confidence. A technician can inspect, clean, and check how your system is performing, and catch worn parts before they leave you without heat on a cold night.
Once the first real cold front moves through central Arkansas, schedules fill up fast. Booking now, while it’s still warm, means less waiting and fewer surprises.
Stay warm this winter
If your heat isn’t acting right, or it’s been a while since it was checked, we’re happy to help. Call 501-492-9886 or request a quote on our Contact page.
