Autumn is here and the recent temperatures outside prove it. Most of us have fired up the furnace to make our homes warm and cozy.

But before you make the full transition and settle in for the colder weather, it’s important to make sure you’ve taken all the necessary steps to make your home and furnace winter ready.

Jay Behrens, service manager for Aurora-based Artlip and Sons, shared with Oswego Patch some advice for preparing for the incoming cooler temperatures.

• Have the furnace cleaned and checked by a qualified heating contractor.
• Clean your filters, said Behrens. Filters should be replaced about once a month. A clogged filter can hurt air conditioning coils in the summer and damage the furnace in the winter.
• Try not to create big swings in temperature. Stay within 3 to 4 degrees of your comfort zone, suggested Behrens, when adjusting the temperature throughout the day. It will conserve energy and help save money.
• Replace your furnace’s igniter every five years. Igniter failure is the leading cause of furnace breakdowns.
• Be aware of noises you normally don’t hear. It could mean the bearings in the motor have gone bad or other mechanical problems.
• Carbon monoxide issues are most common in the winter, said Behrens. “Carbon monoxide will most likely come from your furnace or water heater. The biggest cause of problems like that is a lack of maintenance.”
• Keep vents open and unobstructed by things like furniture or drapes.