Hey there, neighbor! October in Cumming, GA, is that perfect in-between season—mild afternoons, crisp evenings, and just enough chill in the air to remind you that winter isn’t far away. While the days might still feel comfortable, those surprise cold snaps (especially late in the month) can catch anyone off guard. That’s why now’s the ideal time to schedule heating maintenance in Cumming before the real cold settles in. A little attention now keeps your system running smoothly, your home cozy, and your energy bills in check.
At Cheeky, we like to keep things simple: no fuss, no gimmicks, just a practical, seasonal checklist tailored for local homeowners. Most Forsyth County homes feature a mix of heating systems: older homes near downtown Cumming often rely on gas furnaces, while newer subdivisions typically use heat pumps. Either way, these five must-do maintenance steps will help your system stay reliable all season long.
1. Change (or Clean) Your Air Filters
Start your heating prep by checking your air filters. Clogged filters make your furnace or heat pump work harder, wasting energy and shortening its lifespan. Replace disposable filters every one to three months or clean reusable ones according to the manufacturer’s directions. Clean airflow equals cleaner air and lower bills—win-win!
2. Inspect and Clear Vents and Registers
Take a quick walk through your home and make sure all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Furniture, curtains, or rugs can block airflow, leading to uneven heating and unnecessary strain on your system. A quick dusting of those vents helps, too—it’s amazing how much buildup can collect over summer!
3. Check Your Thermostat Settings
With fall temperatures fluctuating, it’s easy to forget your thermostat might still be set for cooling mode. Switch to “heat,” test the system, and verify that warm air is coming through. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, update your schedule to reflect your current routine. Consistent, moderate settings save energy and keep your home comfy.
4. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
This one’s big. A professional inspection in October ensures your system is ready for the heavier workload ahead. Our Cheeky technicians check all critical components—burners, blower motor, electrical connections, and safety controls—to catch minor issues before they become major (and expensive) problems. Whether you’ve got a gas furnace or a heat pump, preventive maintenance helps extend its lifespan and improve efficiency.
5. Seal Up Leaks and Insulate Smartly
Even the best heating system can’t do its job efficiently if your warm air escapes. Check around doors, windows, and attic access points for drafts. Add weatherstripping or caulking where needed, and make sure your attic insulation is up to snuff. Proper sealing can save you 10–15% on heating costs—money better spent on pumpkin spice lattes, right?
October is the sweet spot for getting ahead of winter prep in Cumming. By tackling these five simple steps, you’ll ensure your home stays toasty once those November and December cold fronts roll through. So, before the chilly air sneaks in and your system starts acting up, give us a ring at Cheeky.
