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November 24, 2025

The Furnace Settings Most Families Forget to Adjust in November

Heating/Furnace

November is here, and as the temperatures drop, your furnace becomes the heart of home comfort. While many homeowners think about turning on their heat, some key furnace settings are often overlooked, leading to higher energy bills, uneven warmth, and even unnecessary wear on your system.

By taking a few minutes to adjust your furnace correctly, you can keep your home cozy, save energy, and prevent future issues.

1. Thermostat Schedule

Many families forget to adjust their thermostat schedule after daylight savings or seasonal changes. Setting your thermostat too high can lead to unnecessary energy costs, while too low can leave rooms chilly.

 Tip: Program your thermostat to lower temperatures while everyone is asleep or away and raise it shortly before people return or wake up. Smart thermostats can automate this process, making comfort effortless.

2. Fan Settings

Furnaces often have a fan setting that is overlooked. The fan can run “auto” or “on”, and choosing the wrong setting can affect comfort and energy usage.

  • Auto: The fan runs only when the furnace is heating, saving energy.
  • On: The fan runs continuously, circulating air even when not heating, which can create uneven temperatures and higher electricity bills.

Most families leave the fan on “on” during fall, forgetting to switch back to “auto” for optimal energy efficiency.

 

3. Humidifier Settings

Dry air in November can make a home feel colder than it actually is. Many modern furnaces include a built-in humidifier that is often forgotten during seasonal changes.

Adjusting your humidifier helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment, reduces dry skin, and prevents static electricity.

 

4. Zoning or Room Dampers

If your home has zoning systems or dampers, some rooms may get too much or too little heat. Families often forget to check these settings in November, which can lead to uncomfortable spots in your home.

Tip: Adjust dampers to balance airflow and ensure each room is comfortable.

5. Filter Check and Airflow

Even if you’ve been changing your furnace filter regularly, November is a great time to check airflow. A clogged or dirty filter reduces efficiency, strains your furnace, and can cause uneven heating throughout your home.

Replacing your filter ensures proper airflow, healthier indoor air, and keeps your furnace running smoothly.

6. Safety Settings and Carbon Monoxide Monitors

November marks the start of consistent furnace use. Make sure your furnace’s safety settings are functional and check that carbon monoxide detectors are working.

Tip: Test detectors and replace batteries if needed. Safety checks should never be overlooked.

7. Professional Furnace Inspection

Many overlooked furnace settings can be tricky to adjust on your own, especially for newer systems or homes with complex setups. A professional inspection ensures your furnace is optimized, safe, and energy-efficient for the season.

A1 Air Conditioning and Heating (insert our furnace page link) offers comprehensive furnace checks and can adjust all critical settings, giving your family peace of mind and a cozy home throughout November and beyond.

Adjusting furnace settings in November may seem small, but it can have a big impact on comfort, energy bills, and the lifespan of your system. From thermostat schedules and fan modes to humidifiers and dampers, taking the time now ensures a warm, safe, and efficient home all season long.

Call A1 Air Conditioning & Heating today at 905-844-2949 to schedule a furnace inspection
and make sure your system is ready for the colder months.