Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. hands testing heat near furnace - sergey kolesnikov/Shutterstock Cold temperatures outside are to be expected during the winter ...

As temperatures drop, your furnace becomes the unsung hero keeping your home warm and comfortable. But like any hardworking appliance, it can run into trouble, especially after months of sitting idle.

Experts recommend turning on your furnace before freezing temperatures arrive to check for issues and help prevent major problems during winter. Signs your furnace may need replacement include being ...