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Homeowners in Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati know that cold weather can quickly expose weaknesses in their plumbing and heating systems. At Logan Services, we’re here to remind you that fall furnace maintenance and plumbing prep go hand in hand to prevent costly repairs. As cold weather approaches, it’s the perfect time to safeguard your plumbing system and heating system. This checklist outlines simple tasks, professional inspection points, and ways our expert plumbers and HVAC technicians can help keep your home in tip-top shape throughout the heating season.
Call us today at (800) 564-2611 to schedule your fall furnace maintenance and plumbing inspection.
Quick Fall HVAC Prep Checklist
Your HVAC system and plumbing system are interconnected. By preparing your furnace at the end of summer, you also protect drains, water heaters, and exposed pipes from strain during colder months. Tackling this checklist ensures energy efficiency, comfort, and fewer costly repairs when the heating season begins.
| DIY-Friendly | Call Logan Services | |
|---|---|---|
| Replace Air Filter (Check Monthly) | ✔ | |
| Test Thermostat Settings | ✔ | |
| Clear Condensate Drain Line (Basic Flush) | ✔ | |
| Seal Major Duct Leaks & Secure Connections | ✔ | |
| Furnace Maintenance & Safety Inspection | ✔ | |
| Professional Condensate Pump Service | ✔ | |
| Whole-Home Airflow Balance Check | ✔ |
Fall Prep Tip: Pair your fall HVAC maintenance with plumbing maintenance to fully protect your home and prevent unexpected breakdowns when temperatures drop.
Step 1: Replace Or Clean Air Filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow, overwork the blower motor, and create excess condensation. Homeowners can check the filter monthly by sliding it out of the blower compartment and holding it up to the light. If the filter looks dirty or blocks light, replace it following the manufacturer’s instructions. A clean filter keeps the heating system running efficiently and prevents cold air circulation. If unsure about filter size or access, call a professional for guidance. Visit our filter store to order your next round of filters today.
Plumbing Tie-In: Clean filters prevent excess moisture that could clog condensate drains tied into plumbing systems and reduce indoor air quality.
Step 2: Test Thermostat And Controls
Switch the thermostat to heating mode and raise the set temperature to trigger the furnace. Listen for the blower motor and burner flame to engage. Confirm that warm air, not cold air, is blowing through vents and verify accurate thermostat readings. Replace batteries if needed and double-check programmable settings. If the system does not respond, this may be a warning sign requiring professional help.
Plumbing Tie-In: Stable heating reduces the risk of frozen pipes along exterior walls and crawl spaces when temperatures drop.
Step 3: Inspect Ductwork, Flue Pipe, And Vents
Walk through accessible areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics to look for duct leaks, loose joints, or disconnected pipes. Use basic tools and foil tape to seal small leaks. Make sure supply vents are clean and unobstructed, and verify that the flue pipe is secure and venting in the correct direction. Cleaning vents regularly improves indoor air quality. Larger duct repairs, flue inspections, and carbon monoxide safety checks should be left to a licensed HVAC technician.
Plumbing Tie-In: Balanced airflow prevents cold spots near outdoor pipes and crawl spaces where plumbing could freeze.
Step 4: Clear Condensate Drains And Pumps
Flush condensate lines with a mix of warm water and mild vinegar, remove debris from the sump pit, and test the furnace’s condensate pump by slowly pouring water in until the pump activates and drains in the correct direction. While homeowners can handle basic cleaning with simple tools, a professional furnace inspection is recommended to ensure the pump is functioning properly and to prevent costly emergency repairs.
Plumbing Tie-In: Prevents water overflow and basement flooding that could damage nearby pipes and require emergency repairs.
Step 5: Schedule A Professional Furnace Tune-Up
A professional inspection from Logan Services includes checking the heat exchanger, combustion chamber, burner flame, electrical connections, and blower compartment. A licensed HVAC technician will also clean components, verify carbon monoxide safety, and ensure the furnace is clear of flammable materials. This annual maintenance prevents costly repairs and helps the heating system achieve optimal performance.
Plumbing Tie-In: Reliable furnace operation ensures steady heat output, protecting exposed pipes in unheated areas and helping prevent freezing.
Step 6: Exterior Preparation: Clean Gutters and Protect Exposed Pipes
Walk around the home with basic tools to disconnect garden hoses, shut off outdoor faucets, and drain hose bibs. Apply pipe insulation or heat tape to exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Seal gaps near pipes running outside to prevent cold air from entering. Clean gutters to direct water away from the foundation and prevent water overflow. For major problems or if pipes have frozen in the past, schedule professional plumbers for additional protection.
Plumbing Tie-In: Prevents frozen pipes, slow leaks, and major problems that lead to costly repairs when temperatures drop.
How HVAC Maintenance Supports Plumbing In Fall
- Replacing or cleaning air filters: Reduces condensate buildup and protects indoor air quality.
- Testing thermostats: Maintains steady temps, preventing frozen pipes.
- Clearing condensate drains, sump pumps, and sump pits: Avoids water overflow and basement flooding.
- Inspecting ductwork, flue pipes, and cleaning vents: Eliminates cold spots and ensures proper exhaust flow.
- Professional furnace maintenance inspection: Provides consistent heating and detects leaks before damage.
Local HVAC And Plumbing Experts Across Dayton, Columbus, And Cincinnati
Logan Services provides combined furnace maintenance and plumbing maintenance to keep your home’s systems working together. From water heaters and outdoor faucets to furnace repairs and indoor air quality improvements, our professional plumbers and HVAC technicians handle it all. Regular inspections and annual maintenance help detect leaks, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and ensure your equipment is functioning properly for optimal performance during the heating season.
Call us at (800) 564-2611 to schedule your HVAC and plumbing maintenance.
Common Questions About HVAC Maintenance & Plumbing
Fall furnace maintenance ensures the heating system is functioning properly when temperatures drop, reducing plumbing freeze risks and improving energy efficiency.
Regular maintenance, clean filters, and secure connections reduce energy bills, extend system life, and prevent costly repairs.
Professional HVAC technicians should inspect the combustion chamber, flue pipe, electrical connections, and test carbon monoxide detectors for safety.
Consistent heat output from a well-maintained heating system prevents exposed pipes and outdoor pipes from freezing.
Yes. A blocked condensate line can overflow into sewer lines or plumbing floor drains, causing water damage near HVAC equipment.
Regular cleaning of gutters and vents improves drainage, prevents ice dams, and ensures HVAC systems and plumbing systems remain in top shape.
Warning signs include unusual noises, burner flame issues, pilot light problems, rising energy bills, or cold air blowing. Schedule a professional inspection if you notice these.
Annual maintenance should be scheduled in early fall to prevent freezing, detect leaks, and prepare both systems for heating season.
