Top 3 Things to Do Before Turning On Your Heat

As the cool fall air starts to settle into Westchester, NY, homeowners are preparing to make the seasonal switch from air conditioning to heating. Turning on your heat for the first time each year isn’t just about adjusting the thermostat—it’s about making sure your system is safe, efficient, and ready to keep your family comfortable all winter long.

At Palisades Fuel, we’ve been helping local families with reliable heating oil delivery in Westchester NY and expert heating services for decades. We know that a little preparation now can save you from unexpected breakdowns, higher energy bills, and uncomfortable chilly nights later.

Before you turn up the heat, here are the top three things every homeowner should do:

1. Check and Replace Your Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most effective steps in home heating maintenance is checking your filters. Over the summer months, dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate and clog your system. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your furnace or boiler work harder than it should. This not only raises your energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your heating system.

By replacing or cleaning your filters before turning on the heat, you’ll:

• Improve indoor air quality for your family
• Ensure your heating system runs efficiently
• Reduce unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment
• Think of it as giving your system a fresh start for the new season.

2. Schedule a Professional Heating System Inspection

Even if your furnace or boiler seemed to work fine last winter, don’t skip an inspection this year. Just like a car needs regular tune-ups, your heating system requires professional maintenance to keep it running safely and efficiently.

A certified technician can:

• Check for fuel leaks, worn-out parts, or corrosion
• Test system efficiency to make sure you’re not wasting fuel
• Identify small issues before they become costly repairs

At Palisades Fuel, we specialize in furnace service in Westchester and routine maintenance for all types of heating systems. Annual inspections not only keep your home safe but can also help you save money on fuel costs throughout the season.

3. Clear Vents, Radiators, and Surrounding Areas

It’s easy to overlook blocked vents or radiators, but they play a big role in how well your home heats up. Furniture, curtains, or rugs placed too close to heating elements can reduce airflow and prevent rooms from warming evenly.

Before turning on your heat, take a few minutes to:

• Move furniture or clutter away from vents and baseboards
• Dust or vacuum vents to remove built-up debris
• Ensure radiators have enough clearance for proper circulation

By keeping these areas clear, you’ll enjoy more consistent heat distribution and a more comfortable living space.

Keep Warm with Palisades Fuel

Getting your heating system ready for the colder months doesn’t take much time, but it makes all the difference for comfort and safety. By changing your filters, scheduling a professional inspection, and ensuring vents are clear, you’ll set your home up for a smooth heating season.

At Palisades Fuel, we’re proud to support Westchester homeowners with everything from heating oil delivery in Westchester NY to expert system maintenance. Whether you need a reliable fuel supplier or a trusted partner for home heating maintenance, our team is here to help.

Don’t wait until the first frost catches you off guard—take these steps now and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.

Contact Palisades Fuel today to schedule your heating system service or set up automatic heating oil delivery. Stay safe, stay warm, and trust your local experts to keep the heat on when you need it most.