The month is more than half over and we’ve not much to complain about; still no sign of snow and our daytime high temperatures are very comfortable. But it’s just a matter of time, isn’t it?
As winter nears, we go through the annual rituals of preparing for the cold months ahead. We buy new boots, mittens and toques and even change our bedding. People have already started to ask me when I’m going to put the snow tires on my car. These are all important steps to take to be safe and warm this winter, but what about the thing that keeps us warm and comfortable inside?
I can’t remember the last time I overheard someone say, “By the way, when are you getting your furnace serviced?”
The poor old furnace is called on to keep us warm all winter, coming on when we hold the door open for the dog, shutting off when we choose to leave the house for a while. It’s a lot to ask; the least we could do is make sure it’s in good running order.
Earlier this month I made the call and last Friday, the good people at Maritime Fuels sent Justin Myers.
My furnace is getting quite old, so I was a little concerned. I decided to stay and watch. It didn’t take long for Justin to notice a weak furnace pipe. He explained what needed to be done and off he went to get the supplies he needed. While Justin was inspecting the furnace, we talked about the old engine that had kept me warm for 20 years. In that short time, I learned more about the chunk of steel in my basement than I ever thought possible. Before I knew it, I had a new pipe, a new, more efficient nozzle, a clean filter and peace of mind heading into the winter season. Justin was awesome!
There’s a lot to know about a furnace and the more you know, the more prepared you’ll be for inevitable cold, which is not far off. On Oct. 18 last year, many of us saw our first snow. I guess the snow tires are next… stay tuned.
