brww6413-xyrilqcpqsmt3m7c-v2

September Is the Best Time for Early Fall Furnace Maintenance in Michigan

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 12:31:12 GMT

September in Michigan is a transition month. The hot summer days are starting to fade, mornings are getting cooler, and before long, homeowners across Oakland County will be turning their furnaces on for the first time of the season.

That makes September one of the smartest times of the year to schedule early fall furnace maintenance .

The last thing any homeowner wants is to wait until the first 30-degree morning to discover that the furnace won’t start, isn’t heating properly, or has a problem that could have been caught weeks earlier. A professional furnace tune-up gives you the opportunity to have your heating system inspected while the weather is still manageable and before HVAC service companies become overwhelmed with emergency heating calls.

For homeowners in White Lake, Highland, Milford, Commerce Township, West Bloomfield, and throughout Oakland County, September is a great time to get ahead of the heating season with Mulligan Heating, Inc.

Why September Is the Right Time for Furnace Maintenance

Your furnace may have been sitting relatively quiet for much of the spring and summer. When you turn it on for the first time in the fall, you're asking it to transition from occasional use to potentially running for hours at a time.

That first major startup can reveal problems that weren't obvious during the cooling season.

A furnace tune-up allows a professional HVAC technician to inspect the system before you actually depend on it for heat. Electrical components, ignition components, burners, blower operation, safety controls, venting, and other important parts of the heating system can be checked to help identify problems before they turn into a no-heat emergency.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends having furnaces checked in the fall as part of a regular maintenance schedule, noting that preventative maintenance can help reduce heating and cooling costs and extend equipment life.

That timing is particularly important in Michigan.

Once temperatures drop, your furnace isn't just providing comfort. It becomes one of the most important systems in your home.

Don't Wait for the First Cold Snap

One of the biggest mistakes Michigan homeowners make is waiting until they need their furnace before thinking about furnace maintenance.

If the first truly cold weekend of the season arrives and hundreds of homeowners discover heating problems at the same time, HVAC service schedules can fill quickly.

September gives you a major advantage: time.

If your furnace needs a minor repair, there's an opportunity to address it before the system is working around the clock. If a technician discovers that an older furnace is showing signs of significant wear, you also have time to consider your options instead of being forced into a decision during an emergency.

ENERGY STAR also recommends preseason HVAC checkups because contractors become busy when heating and cooling seasons arrive.

For Oakland County homeowners, that's a good reason to think about furnace maintenance before the weather tells you it's time.

What Happens During a Professional Furnace Tune-Up?

Early fall furnace maintenance isn't simply about turning the furnace on and making sure warm air comes out of the vents.

A professional HVAC technician should evaluate the overall operation and condition of the system. That can include inspecting safety controls, electrical connections, the ignition system, burners, blower components, thermostat operation, venting and other critical components.

For fuel-burning equipment, safety is especially important. Michigan homeowners should have their heating equipment professionally inspected to help identify potential problems involving combustion, venting and carbon monoxide.

The goal isn't simply to make your furnace run.

The goal is to make sure your heating system is operating properly before you're relying on it to keep your family warm through a Michigan winter.

Furnace Maintenance Can Help Prevent Bigger Problems

No furnace lasts forever, but regular maintenance can help you get the most reliable performance possible from your equipment.

Small problems can become expensive problems when they're ignored. A worn component may place additional stress on other parts of the system. A furnace that's operating inefficiently may consume more energy than necessary. A developing mechanical or electrical issue may eventually turn into a complete system failure.

Preventative maintenance is about finding those problems while they're still manageable.

Michigan's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has also emphasized the importance of routine furnace maintenance for safety, efficiency and preventing minor problems from becoming major repairs.

That's why September furnace service isn't just another item on your fall home-maintenance list. It's an investment in reliability and peace of mind.

How Long Does a Furnace Last in Michigan?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, "How long does a furnace last?"

There isn't one exact answer because furnace life depends on the equipment, installation, operating conditions, usage and maintenance history. A properly maintained furnace can often provide many years of dependable service, but older equipment should be evaluated based on its condition rather than its age alone.

If your furnace is getting older, September maintenance can be especially valuable because it gives you an opportunity to understand its condition before winter.

A technician may be able to identify components that are wearing out, explain potential repair needs and help you determine whether continued repairs make sense or whether planning for replacement would be the better long-term option.

That is much different from discovering the problem on the coldest night of January.

How Often Should a Furnace Be Serviced?

Another common Oakland County question is, "How often should a furnace be serviced?"

For most homeowners, professional furnace maintenance should be performed annually, ideally before the heating season begins. Fall is the natural time for a heating-system inspection because it allows problems to be identified before the equipment goes into its heaviest period of use.

September is particularly convenient because you're getting ahead of the seasonal rush.

Think of it the same way you would think about preparing your vehicle before a long trip. You don't want to wait until you're stranded on the side of the road to find out something needs attention.

Your furnace deserves the same kind of preparation.

Should I Repair or Replace My Furnace?

For homeowners with an older furnace, one of the biggest questions is, "Should I repair or replace my furnace?"

The answer depends on several factors, including the age and condition of the furnace, the cost of the repair, how frequently the system has needed repairs, its efficiency and how reliably it has been heating your home.

A professional evaluation can help you make that decision based on the actual condition of your equipment instead of pressure from an unexpected breakdown.

Sometimes a repair is the right answer.

Sometimes replacement makes more financial sense.

The important thing is having the information before you need heat immediately.

Why Choose Mulligan Heating, Inc. for Furnace Maintenance?

For more than 70 years, Mulligan Heating, Inc. has been helping Michigan families stay comfortable through every season.

As a family-owned HVAC company serving Southeast Michigan, we understand what Michigan winters can do to a heating system. Our goal isn't simply to get your furnace running and move on. We want homeowners to understand the condition of their equipment and feel confident about their home's comfort and heating system.

Whether you need an annual furnace tune-up, furnace repair, a second opinion or you're beginning to consider a new heating system, our team is here to help.

And September is the perfect time to make that call.

Get Your Furnace Ready Before Michigan Winter Arrives

You don't have to wait for the first cold snap.

If your furnace hasn't been professionally serviced before the upcoming heating season, September is an excellent time to schedule your early fall furnace maintenance. You'll have more time to address potential problems, get your heating system ready for heavier use and avoid waiting until you're facing a no-heat situation.

For homeowners throughout Oakland County, White Lake, Highland, Milford, Commerce Township, West Bloomfield and surrounding Southeast Michigan communities , Mulligan Heating, Inc. is ready to help you prepare for winter.

Schedule your fall furnace maintenance with Mulligan Heating, Inc. before the cold weather arrives.

Your furnace works hard all winter.

Give it a little attention before you ask it to do the job.

Mulligan Heating, Inc. — Quality You Can Feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Replacing Your Furnace Humidifier Pad Matters This Winter

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:29:01 GMT

When Michigan winter arrives, most homeowners are focused on keeping their furnace running and their family warm. But there is another part of your HVAC system that plays a major role in winter comfort: your whole-home humidifier.

If your home has a furnace-mounted humidifier, that system uses a small component called a humidifier pad, water panel, or evaporator pad to add moisture to the air. It may be easy to forget about, but that small pad has an important job—and when it becomes clogged with minerals, your humidifier may not be able to do its job properly.

For homeowners in Oakland County and throughout Southeast Michigan, replacing the humidifier pad before the heating season gets into full swing is one of the simplest ways to help maintain comfortable indoor humidity throughout the winter.

What Does a Furnace Humidifier Pad Do?

A whole-home humidifier works with your furnace to add moisture to the air as heated air moves through your HVAC system.

The humidifier pad absorbs water, and warm air from the furnace passes across it. That moisture is then carried through the ductwork and distributed throughout your home.

Over time, however, minerals from your home's water supply build up on the pad. The buildup can make the pad crusty, clogged, and less capable of absorbing and distributing water.

According to HVAC manufacturers, the water panel should generally be replaced at least once each heating season. Homes with hard water or systems that operate heavily may require more frequent replacement.

Why Is Humidifier Pad Replacement Important in the Winter?

Michigan winters can be extremely dry indoors. Your furnace heats the air in your home, and as that air is heated, the relative humidity can drop significantly.

That dry air can contribute to problems homeowners commonly notice during the winter, including dry skin, static electricity, irritated nasal passages, and an overall feeling that the house is uncomfortable even though the thermostat says the temperature is right.

A properly operating whole-home humidifier helps put moisture back into the air.

But if the humidifier pad is packed with mineral deposits, the system may not be able to evaporate water effectively. Carrier explains that mineral buildup can make the water panel rigid and clogged, restricting airflow and reducing humidifier efficiency.

In other words, your humidifier can be turned on and still not be doing its job effectively.

When Is the Best Time to Replace a Humidifier Pad?

The best time to replace your humidifier pad is at the beginning of the heating season, before you really need it.

For Oakland County homeowners, that typically means late summer or early fall , before Michigan's colder weather arrives and your furnace begins running regularly.

Replacing the pad before winter has several advantages. You start the heating season with a clean water panel, your humidifier can operate as intended, and you are less likely to discover a clogged or deteriorated pad when the weather is already cold.

Honeywell specifically recommends replacing its humidifier pad annually at the start of the heating season.

This is also why having your humidifier checked during a fall furnace tune-up can make sense. Instead of waiting until January to discover that the humidifier isn't adding enough moisture, you can address the problem before winter is in full swing.

How Often Should You Replace a Furnace Humidifier Pad?

For many whole-home humidifiers, once per year is a good general rule .

However, there is no single replacement schedule that applies to every humidifier. Some manufacturers recommend replacing certain pads twice during the heating season, while homes with hard water may require more frequent replacement because mineral deposits accumulate faster.

Your humidifier's manufacturer recommendations should always take priority.

If you have hard water, notice significant mineral buildup, or your humidifier runs frequently throughout the winter, your pad may need to be replaced more often.

What Happens If You Don't Replace Your Humidifier Pad?

The most common problem is reduced performance.

As minerals accumulate, the pad can become coated and restricted. Instead of absorbing and distributing water efficiently, the buildup can interfere with the humidification process.

A severely clogged pad can also contribute to water-flow and drainage problems. Carrier notes that neglected humidifier maintenance can potentially contribute to water leaks and other problems within the HVAC system.

The result can be a furnace humidifier that is technically running but isn't providing the level of humidity your home needs.

That's why replacing the pad is inexpensive preventive maintenance compared with discovering a humidifier problem in the middle of a Michigan cold snap.

Can You Just Clean the Humidifier Pad?

In many cases, no .

The humidifier pad isn't simply a filter that can be washed and put back into service. Some evaporator pads have a special coating designed to help them absorb and distribute water. General Filters explains that cleaning these pads can remove the hydrophilic coating that allows the pad to work properly.

Once the pad has accumulated significant mineral deposits, replacement is generally the better option.

Your HVAC technician can also inspect the distribution tray, water line, drain, and other components of the humidifier to make sure the entire system is operating properly.

What Humidity Level Should My Michigan Home Have in Winter?

There is a balance when it comes to indoor humidity.

Too little humidity can make your home feel dry and uncomfortable, while too much humidity can contribute to condensation on windows and other moisture-related problems.

Carrier recommends adjusting indoor humidity according to outdoor temperatures, with lower indoor relative humidity targets as outdoor temperatures drop.

That's one reason a properly functioning humidistat is important. Your goal isn't simply to add as much moisture as possible—it's to maintain an appropriate level for the conditions outside.

Don't Wait Until the Middle of Winter

Your furnace humidifier may be a small part of your HVAC system, but it can make a noticeable difference in how your home feels during a Michigan winter.

Replacing the humidifier pad before the heating season begins is simple preventive maintenance that can help your humidifier operate efficiently and provide the moisture your home needs.

If you haven't replaced your humidifier pad recently, fall is a great time to have it checked. A furnace tune-up and humidifier inspection can help make sure your heating system and whole-home comfort equipment are ready before the next Michigan cold snap.

At Mulligan Heating, Inc. we've been helping families across Southeast Michigan stay comfortable since 1955. If you have questions about your furnace humidifier, humidifier pad, or whole-home indoor air quality, give us a call at (248) 698-9700 or visit us online at www.MulliganHeating.com .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Your Furnace Ready for Another Michigan Winter? 7 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 14:14:14 GMT

7 warning signs you shouldn't ignore .

Michigan homeowners know that winter has a way of sneaking up on you. August can still bring hot, humid days, but before long, the leaves will begin to change, temperatures will drop, and your furnace will become one of the most important appliances in your home.

That makes late summer and early fall the perfect time to take a closer look at your heating system.

A furnace that worked perfectly last winter may not necessarily be ready for another Michigan heating season. Furnaces often give homeowners warning signs before a major breakdown occurs. Recognizing those signs now can give you time to address a small problem, schedule maintenance, or make an informed decision about replacement before you're left without heat on the coldest day of the year.

At Mulligan Heating, Inc., we've been helping families across Southeast Michigan stay comfortable since 1955. Here are seven furnace warning signs Michigan homeowners shouldn't ignore, along with answers to some of the most common furnace questions homeowners ask.

1. Your Furnace Is Making Strange Noises

Most furnaces make some noise when they start and operate. However, if your furnace suddenly sounds different than it did last heating season, it's worth paying attention.

Banging, rattling, squealing, grinding, or repeated popping noises can indicate that something isn't operating properly. A worn component, loose part, blower problem, ignition issue, or airflow restriction could be contributing to the noise.

That doesn't automatically mean your furnace needs to be replaced. In many cases, catching a problem early can prevent a relatively small repair from becoming a much larger one.

If your furnace is making a sound you've never heard before, don't simply turn up the thermostat and hope it goes away.

2. Your Furnace Keeps Turning On and Off

Have you noticed your furnace starting and stopping constantly?

Frequent cycling, sometimes called short cycling, is another warning sign that shouldn't be ignored. Your furnace should run through normal heating cycles to maintain the temperature in your home. If it is repeatedly starting and shutting down after only a short period, something may be wrong.

A dirty filter, restricted airflow, thermostat problem, improperly sized equipment, or mechanical issue could be contributing to the problem.

Frequent cycling can also place additional stress on the furnace because the system is repeatedly starting instead of operating normally.

If you've noticed your furnace cycling more often than it used to, it's a good idea to have it inspected before winter.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

Your furnace doesn't necessarily need to be completely broken to tell you something is wrong.

One of the more subtle warning signs is an increase in heating costs without a corresponding change in your home's comfort or usage.

As a furnace gets older, components can wear down and efficiency can decline. Dirty filters, restricted airflow, ductwork problems, and other HVAC issues can also force your furnace to work harder and run longer.

An increase in your utility bill doesn't automatically mean your furnace is failing. However, if you're also noticing longer run times, uneven heating, unusual noises, or other problems, it's worth having your system evaluated.

4. Some Rooms Are Warm While Others Stay Cold

If your thermostat says 70 degrees but certain rooms in your home still feel cold, your furnace may not be the only thing to blame.

Uneven temperatures can be caused by airflow restrictions, ductwork problems, insulation, blocked registers, thermostat location, or issues with the heating equipment itself.

This is an important reminder that whole-home comfort isn't simply about how much heat your furnace produces. That heat also needs to be distributed properly throughout your home.

If you're constantly adjusting the thermostat, using space heaters, or closing and opening vents because certain rooms aren't comfortable, it's worth having the entire system evaluated.

5. Your Furnace Is Getting Older

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How long does a furnace last?”

While there isn't one exact answer, a properly maintained furnace can often provide roughly 15 to 20 years of service , depending on the equipment, installation, usage, maintenance, and operating conditions.

Once a furnace begins approaching the end of its expected service life, homeowners should pay closer attention to its efficiency, repair history, reliability, and overall condition.

Age alone doesn't mean you need a new furnace. An older system that has been properly maintained and is operating safely may continue to provide reliable heat.

However, if your furnace is older and you're also experiencing frequent repairs, increasing energy costs, or declining comfort, it's a good time to have a professional evaluate your options.

The important part is planning ahead rather than waiting for the furnace to fail completely.

6. You're Having to Repair Your Furnace More Often

A furnace repair isn't necessarily a reason to replace your system. Every heating system will eventually need repairs.

The bigger question is how often those repairs are happening and how much you're spending to keep an aging system running.

This leads to another common homeowner question:

“Should I repair or replace my furnace?”

The best answer depends on several factors, including the age and condition of the furnace, the cost and type of repair, its repair history, efficiency, reliability, and whether there are safety concerns.

If you have a relatively newer furnace with an isolated repair and the rest of the system is in good condition, repairing it may make perfect sense.

On the other hand, if an older furnace requires increasingly expensive or frequent repairs, replacement may provide better long-term value. Local HVAC guidance commonly considers system age, repair frequency, safety, and declining performance when evaluating repair versus replacement.

A good HVAC company should explain both options and help you understand why one may make more sense for your particular home.

7. You Notice a Yellow or Orange Flame or Other Safety Concerns

Some furnace warning signs aren't simply about comfort or efficiency. They're about safety.

If you have a gas furnace and notice that the burner flame looks yellow or orange instead of the expected blue appearance, your furnace should be professionally inspected.

Homeowners should also take unusual odors, soot around the furnace, abnormal combustion, or concerns about carbon monoxide seriously.

Never attempt to diagnose or repair gas combustion equipment yourself. Gas furnaces contain electrical, gas, and combustion components that require the proper tools and training to safely inspect.

Make sure your home also has functioning carbon monoxide detectors, particularly near sleeping areas.

If you ever suspect a carbon monoxide emergency, leave the home immediately and contact the appropriate emergency services or your local gas utility.

How Often Should a Furnace Be Serviced?

Another question we hear from homeowners is, “How often should I have my furnace serviced?”

For most homeowners, professional furnace maintenance should be performed at least once a year . Having your furnace inspected before the heating season gives a technician an opportunity to check the system's operation, identify potential problems, and address issues before the furnace is working continuously during a Michigan cold snap.

Late summer and early fall are particularly convenient times to schedule this service because you're getting ahead of the heating season instead of waiting until everyone else turns on their furnaces.

Homeowners should also keep up with routine tasks such as changing the furnace filter according to the filter manufacturer's recommendations and keeping supply and return vents clear.

Professional maintenance goes beyond simply changing a filter. A proper inspection can include checking important operating and safety components, airflow, electrical connections, controls, and combustion-related components.

Why August Is a Great Time to Check Your Furnace

You may be wondering why we're talking about furnaces when Michigan is still experiencing summer weather.

That's exactly why August is such a good time.

Your furnace probably isn't running much right now, which means you have time to identify potential problems before you actually need the system.

Waiting until the first freezing night to discover that your furnace isn't operating properly can turn a manageable repair into an emergency. It can also leave you making a major replacement decision when you're uncomfortable and under pressure.

Taking care of your furnace before winter gives you choices.

You can repair a problem, perform necessary maintenance, compare replacement options, or simply have peace of mind knowing your heating system has been inspected and is ready for another season.

Don't Wait for the First Cold Snap

Your furnace doesn't have to completely stop working before it needs attention.

Strange noises, frequent cycling, rising energy bills, uneven heating, an aging system, repeated repairs, and combustion or safety concerns can all be reasons to have your furnace evaluated.

And if you're asking yourself how long your furnace has left, whether it needs maintenance, or whether you should repair or replace it, the best time to get those questions answered is before winter—not during it.

At Mulligan Heating, Inc., we've been helping families across Southeast Michigan with their heating and cooling needs since 1955 . Our goal is to help homeowners understand their HVAC systems and make informed decisions about their comfort.

Is Your Furnace Ready for Another Michigan Winter?

If your furnace is showing any of these warning signs, don't wait until the first cold snap to find out whether it's ready.

Schedule your furnace service with Mulligan Heating, Inc. and get ahead of winter.

From furnace maintenance and repairs to complete system replacement, our team is here to help keep your home comfortable through another Michigan winter.

Mulligan Heating, Inc.

Quality You Can Feel

Serving Southeast Michigan Since 1955

Visit www.MulliganHeating.com to learn more or schedule your HVAC service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why August Is the Best Time to Get Your Furnace Ready for Winter in Michigan

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:12:08 GMT

August might be the last month you’re thinking about turning on your furnace.

With summer temperatures still hanging around Michigan, most homeowners are focused on keeping their homes cool and not preparing for the cold weather ahead.

But from an HVAC perspective, August is actually one of the best times of the year to start thinking about your furnace.

Michigan winters can be long, cold, and unpredictable. When the first major cold snap arrives, HVAC companies across Southeast Michigan can become extremely busy with furnace service calls, repairs, and emergency no-heat situations. Scheduling your furnace maintenance before that rush can help you avoid the stress of discovering a problem on the coldest night of the year.

For homeowners in Oakland County and throughout Southeast Michigan, August is the perfect time to make sure your heating system is ready before you actually need it.

Why Should You Have Your Furnace Serviced in August?

The simple answer is preparation .

Your furnace may have been sitting mostly unused for several months while your air conditioner handled the summer heat. Before your heating system is asked to run for hours at a time every day, it is a good idea to have it inspected and maintained by a qualified HVAC professional.

A furnace tune-up gives a technician an opportunity to evaluate the system, identify potential problems, check important components, and make sure the equipment is operating properly before winter arrives.

The goal isn't simply to make your furnace work when you turn it on. Proper maintenance is about helping your heating system operate safely, reliably, and efficiently throughout the heating season.

What does furnace maintenance include?

A professional furnace maintenance visit can include inspecting and testing the furnace's major components, checking electrical connections, examining the ignition system, inspecting the heat exchanger, checking airflow, evaluating the blower assembly, and making sure the system is operating as it should.

The exact maintenance performed depends on the type, age, and condition of your heating system.

Maintenance can also help identify smaller issues before they become larger and more expensive repairs. A component that shows signs of wear in August may be much easier to address than a failed component in January when your furnace is running constantly.

Why Is August Better Than Waiting Until Fall?

One of the biggest advantages of scheduling furnace maintenance in August is timing .

Once temperatures begin dropping in September and October, homeowners start turning their furnaces back on. That's when HVAC companies typically see an increase in heating-related service calls.

If your furnace hasn't been maintained and something goes wrong when you first turn it on, you may find yourself competing for an appointment with many other homeowners experiencing similar problems.

Scheduling in August gives you an opportunity to get ahead of that seasonal rush.

Instead of waiting until the first freezing morning to find out whether your furnace works, you can have your system checked while temperatures are still comfortable.

When should I schedule my furnace tune-up in Michigan?

For many Michigan homeowners, late summer and early fall are excellent times to schedule furnace maintenance. August is especially convenient because it allows time to identify and address potential problems before the heating season gets underway.

Can Furnace Maintenance Help Prevent Breakdowns?

While no maintenance program can guarantee that a furnace will never experience a mechanical failure, regular professional maintenance can help identify worn or failing components before they cause a larger problem.

Think of it like maintaining your vehicle. You wouldn't necessarily wait for your car to break down on the side of the road before checking the oil, tires, or brakes. Your home's heating system deserves the same kind of attention.

A furnace works hard during a Michigan winter. Preventive maintenance helps make sure the system is ready for that workload.

It can also provide homeowners with a better understanding of their furnace's condition. If a technician discovers a component that is beginning to wear, you have time to make an informed decision rather than being forced into an emergency repair when your home is already cold.

What Happens If You Wait Until the First Cold Snap?

This is where timing becomes especially important.

When temperatures suddenly drop, homeowners who haven't used their furnaces for months often turn their systems on for the first time. If something isn't working correctly, service calls can increase quickly.

That means waiting until November or December could make it more difficult to get a convenient appointment.

You could also end up discovering a problem at the worst possible time, when you need heat immediately.

Getting your furnace checked in August doesn't just prepare your equipment. It prepares you.

You have more time to address repairs, consider replacement options if your furnace is nearing the end of its useful life, and schedule service around your schedule rather than an emergency.

How Does a Furnace Maintenance Plan Help?

For homeowners who want to take a more proactive approach to HVAC maintenance, Mulligan Heating, Inc. offers service plans designed to help keep your heating and cooling equipment maintained throughout the year.

A service plan can make it easier to stay on top of recommended maintenance instead of trying to remember when your furnace and air conditioner need attention.

Regular maintenance is particularly important for Michigan homeowners because your HVAC system works through two very different seasons. Your air conditioner may work hard throughout the summer, followed by months of demanding furnace operation during the winter.

A planned maintenance approach helps keep both sides of your HVAC system on the radar.

What is the benefit of an HVAC service plan?

An HVAC service plan helps homeowners stay proactive about system maintenance and gives them an opportunity to have their equipment professionally inspected on a regular basis. The goal is to catch potential problems earlier, maintain system performance, and reduce the likelihood of being caught completely off guard by a preventable issue.

With Mulligan Heating's service plans, homeowners can take a more organized approach to maintaining their home's heating and cooling systems.

August Is Also a Great Time to Think About Furnace Replacement.

Sometimes maintenance reveals something homeowners weren't expecting: their furnace is simply getting old.

If your furnace is approaching the end of its service life, requires frequent repairs, produces uneven heat, or has become increasingly expensive to operate, August can be an ideal time to start considering your options.

Why?

Because you have time.

Replacing a furnace during the summer or early fall gives you the opportunity to research equipment, compare options, discuss your home's heating needs with an HVAC professional, and schedule installation before winter arrives.

Waiting until the furnace fails during a Michigan cold snap can turn what could have been a planned decision into an emergency.

How Do I Know If My Furnace Needs Maintenance?

Mulligan Heating, Inc. has been helping families throughout Southeast Michigan stay comfortable since 1955 .

Our approach goes beyond simply getting a furnace running. We believe your HVAC system should provide dependable, efficient comfort for your entire home, and that starts with proper maintenance and professional service.

Whether your furnace needs routine maintenance, a repair, or you're considering replacing an aging system, our team can help you understand your options and determine the right solution for your home.

And because August gives you a head start, you don't have to wait until the busiest part of the heating season to schedule service.

Don't Wait for Winter to Tell You There's a Problem.

The best time to find out that your furnace needs attention is before you need it .

August gives Michigan homeowners a valuable window of opportunity. Your furnace isn't working overtime yet, HVAC schedules are generally less pressured than they are during the first major cold snap, and there's still plenty of time to address maintenance or repairs before winter arrives.

So while you're enjoying the last weeks of summer, take a few minutes to think ahead.

Is your furnace ready for another Michigan winter?

If you aren't sure, now is the time to find out.

Schedule your furnace maintenance with Mulligan Heating, Inc. and get ahead of the winter rush. Ask about our service plans and find out how regular HVAC maintenance can help keep your home's heating and cooling system ready for the seasons ahead.

Mulligan Heating, Inc.
Serving Southeast Michigan since 1955
Call (248) 698-9700
www.MulliganHeating.com

The Bottom Line

August isn't just the end of summer—it's the beginning of winter preparation.

Getting your furnace professionally maintained now can help you avoid the stress of discovering a problem when temperatures are freezing and HVAC companies are at their busiest.

Don't wait for the first cold snap.

Get ahead of the rush. Get your furnace ready. And enjoy the confidence that comes from knowing your home is prepared for another Michigan winter.

Contact Mulligan Heating, Inc. at (248) 698-9700 or visit www.MulliganHeating.com to schedule your furnace maintenance and ask about our service plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Keep Your Michigan Home Cool During a Heatwave

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:17:24 GMT

How to Keep Your Michigan Home Cool During a Heatwave

When a heatwave hits, your home's air conditioning system works overtime to keep your family comfortable. Without proper maintenance, extreme temperatures can put extra stress on your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills, poor cooling performance, or even unexpected breakdowns.

The good news is that there are several steps homeowners can take to improve their home's efficiency and help their air conditioner perform at its best. From simple maintenance tasks to professional HVAC services, preparing for extreme heat can make all the difference.

Why Is My House So Hot During a Heatwave?

During periods of extreme heat, your air conditioner may run longer than usual because it's working against higher outdoor temperatures. If your home isn't properly sealed or your HVAC system isn't operating efficiently, cool air can escape while hot air enters your home.

Common reasons your home feels warmer include:

- Dirty air filters restricting airflow

- Poor attic insulation

- Air leaks around doors and windows

- Blocked or dirty outdoor AC units

- Aging or undersized air conditioning systems

- Leaky ductwork

- Lack of routine HVAC maintenance

Identifying these issues early can improve comfort and reduce unnecessary strain on your cooling system.

Schedule Preventative HVAC Maintenance Before Problems Start

One of the most effective ways to keep your home cool during a heatwave is by scheduling annual air conditioning maintenance.

Preventative maintenance helps your system:

- Cool your home more efficiently

- Lower monthly energy costs

- Reduce wear and tear

- Prevent unexpected breakdowns

- Extend the lifespan of your equipment

- Maintain manufacturer warranties

During a professional AC tune-up, a technician will inspect the system, clean critical components, check refrigerant levels, test electrical connections, inspect the condensate drain, and verify that your equipment is operating safely and efficiently.

Routine maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repairs and can often prevent problems before they happen.

Change Your Air Filter Regularly

One of the easiest ways to improve your air conditioner's performance is by replacing the air filter.

A clogged filter reduces airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder while delivering less cool air throughout your home.

During the summer, homeowners should inspect their filters every month and replace them every one to three months, depending on:

- Pets in the home

- Allergy concerns

- Indoor air quality

- Filter type

- Overall system usage

Clean filters improve airflow, reduce energy consumption, and help maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Keep Your Outdoor AC Unit Clean

Your outdoor condenser needs unrestricted airflow to remove heat from your home.

Help it perform efficiently by:

- Removing leaves and debris

- Trimming shrubs at least two feet away

- Keeping grass clippings away from the unit

- Gently rinsing dirt from the coils with a garden hose

Avoid stacking storage items or placing decorative landscaping directly around the condenser, as blocked airflow reduces cooling efficiency.

Reduce Heat Inside Your Home

Your air conditioner doesn't have to work as hard if less heat enters your home.

Simple ways to reduce indoor heat include:

- Close blinds and curtains during the afternoon.

- Install blackout curtains on sun-facing windows.

- Seal gaps around windows and doors.

- Use weatherstripping where needed.

- Avoid using the oven during the hottest part of the day.

- Grill outdoors when possible.

- Run dishwashers and laundry machines during the evening.

- Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.

These small changes can significantly improve indoor comfort during extreme temperatures.

Use Ceiling Fans to Improve Comfort

Ceiling fans help circulate cooled air, making rooms feel several degrees cooler.

During the summer, fan blades should rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward. This allows many homeowners to increase their thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort, helping reduce energy usage.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Professional Service

Even well-maintained systems can develop issues over time.

Contact an HVAC professional if you notice:

- Warm air coming from vents

- Weak airflow

- Unusual noises

- Burning or musty odors

- Ice forming on the unit

- Frequent cycling on and off

- Rising energy bills

- Uneven temperatures throughout your home

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to larger repairs and complete system failure during the hottest days of summer.

Professional HVAC Services That Help During a Heatwave

If your cooling system struggles to keep up with rising temperatures, professional HVAC services can restore comfort and improve efficiency.

Services may include:

- Air conditioning repairs

- Preventative AC maintenance

- Refrigerant leak detection and repair

- Smart thermostat installation

- Ductwork inspection and sealing

- Indoor air quality solutions

- Air conditioner replacement

- High-efficiency HVAC system installation

Whether your system needs a minor repair or a full replacement, addressing problems early helps avoid emergency breakdowns when demand is highest.

Keep Your Home Comfortable All Summer Long

Extreme summer temperatures don't have to mean an uncomfortable home. By changing your air filter, keeping your outdoor unit clean, reducing indoor heat gain, and scheduling annual preventative maintenance, you can improve your air conditioner's performance and extend its lifespan.

If your AC isn't keeping up with the heat, don't wait for a complete breakdown. The experienced team at Mulligan Heating, Inc. provides professional air conditioning maintenance, repairs, and replacement services to help homeowners stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient all summer long. Call Mulligan Heating, Inc. (248) 698-9700 or visit us online at www.MulliganHeating.com

Whether you need a seasonal tune-up or fast air conditioning repair, we're here to help you beat the heat.