Feel that chill? Check now that your heater is ready for winter

Thursday night was the first time many people turned on their heat this season. It's a good time to make sure your furnaces are ready to go.

The key is to be proactive. Get that tune-up now. While many are not quite ready to think about the colder temperatures, the experts say now is the perfect time to get prepared.

People WRAL News spoke with Thursday night seemed to be enjoying the weather in their jackets and sweaters as temperatures took a plunge during the evening.

"The number one thing is maintaining your system. No matter if it is a car or a heating and air system, you have to maintain it," Distel said.

Distel added you should check your drains and get your system cleaned at least twice a year – once before summer and once before winter. As people kick on their heat, he believes the company will start to get busier.

“Your workload is going to double, at least. It all comes in at one time," Distel said. "We have to maintain staff levels.”

So while many are enjoying the lower temperatures, the goal is not to forget about your furnace.

Temperatures in the Triangle won't get out of the 60s through the weekend. Friday's skies will be mostly clear before clouds roll in Saturday and rain arrives for Sunday.

Saturday is the better day to work around the house, making those checks, or for outdoor activity. It will be sunny and pleasant, at least to start.

Tain chances increase Saturday evening and through the night. A tropical system moving in from the Gulf of Mexico will make Sunday a soaker,.

"We expect some gusty winds and rain that will move out of the region late in the day. Winds could gust between 30-40 mph mainly south and east of Raleigh," said WRAL meteorologist Zach Maloch.