Angie's List: A few easy steps to prepare your furnace for winter

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The fall season is here. Now is your chance to prepare for the upcoming cold weather.

The folks at Angie's List recommend scheduling a service check of your heating system this time of year. A tune up can make sure it is in top working order.

Do not forget to check your furnace filters and replace them if necessary. 

“Taking care of your furnace is the most important thing you can do in the wintertime,” said Angie Hicks of Angie’s List. 

A clean filter distributes heat better and cuts your energy costs. Plus, it is a cheap and easy fix.

“What we hear from heating and cooling contractors is that the most common reason for emergency calls is because the furnace wasn’t properly maintained," Hicks adds. "Investing in a checkup this fall costs anywhere from $60 to $100 and is money well-spent.”

Energy efficient replacement windows are a great investment.  But if you are not there yet, Angie's List recommends you caulk, seal and weather-strip doors and windows where drafts are detected.