HVAC companies urge homeowners to check heating systems

FARGO — HVAC companies say now is the time to make sure your heating system is working correctly. They say you can do that by checking your furnace filter or by getting your furnace cleaned. Experts say if you smell burning when you turn on your heater initially, it's usually just dust burning off after months of no use. But if you have any concerns, they say it's better to get them checked early. "Preventative maintenance is huge. We really don't live in an area where you have time if something does go down. It doesn't take long for pipes to freeze, kids to get cold, or your wife to yell at you that she's got to wear a blanket all winter long," said Tommy Reinking, head of HVAC at Legacy Heating and Air. Reinking says they make house calls to replace furnace filters, but says they never discourage anyone who would like to do it themselves. ]]>