Want to know some simple things to do to keep your gas furnace running at peak performance levels during the winter? It starts in the fall.

Here are some things you should be doing regularly to ensure that your gas furnace performs at peak operating levels.

• Filter. Whether it is winter, spring, summer or fall – regular filter changes are the best way to keep your equipment running properly and keep your air as clean as possible. At the very least, you should change your filter once before the summer cooling season (during the spring) and the winter heating season (during the fall).

• Leaves. If you have a heat pump or air conditioner, make sure you keep leaves and debris away from the outdoor component to maintain proper airflow. Improper airflow can result in decreased performance and potential system breakdowns.

• Thermostat. Fall can be a roller coaster of a season (in terms of temperature). To decrease utility bills, either stick to your programmed comfort schedule, or (if you don’t have a programmable thermostat) set the temperature and forget about it. Constantly fidgeting with the thermostat can result in higher utility bills.

• Cleaning indoors. Fall is another allergy season. It can be tempting to open windows and let in some cooler air. Clean indoors to make sure that dust and allergens from outdoors aren’t settling on your surfaces and lowering indoor air quality.

• Maintenance. Make sure you schedule maintenance with your local heating and cooling contractor. This is the best way to ensure proper performance levels throughout the winter.

Here are things a McCoy’s technician will do during a fall preventative maintenance appointment:

• Clean. Our technician will clean the burner, heat exchanger and any other component if necessary.

• Inspect. They will make sure that your venting system is operating properly.

• Check. They will look over your furnace to make sure there aren’t any problems, aren’t any rusty spots or leaks, and make sure that the electric system is in tip-top shape.

Remember, HVAC systems (particularly gas furnaces) require the skills of a professional for proper maintenance, installation and repairs. ALWAYS contact a heating and air conditioning specialist for any furnace problems.

So, what do you do to make sure your gas furnace stays in proper working order?