As the sweltering heat of summer gives way to the crisp, cool days of fall, it’s time to shift our focus from air conditioning to heating. Just as we prepare our homes for the changing season by pulling out cozy blankets and swapping out summer décor, our HVAC systems also need a bit of attention to ensure they’re ready to keep us comfortable throughout the cooler months.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through some essential steps to prepare your HVAC system for fall with HVAC Maintenance services, so you can stay warm and comfortable while maximizing energy efficiency.
1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
The most crucial step in preparing your HVAC system for fall is to schedule a professional inspection and tune-up. An HVAC technician will thoroughly inspect your system, clean internal components, check for any signs of wear and tear, and ensure everything is running efficiently. This preventative maintenance can catch potential issues early, helping you avoid unexpected breakdowns when the weather gets colder.
During the inspection, your technician will:
- Check your furnace or heat pump for proper functioning
- Clean or replace air filters
- Lubricate moving parts
- Inspect and clean the blower motor
- Test the thermostat for accuracy
By scheduling your fall HVAC inspection now, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your system is ready to tackle the cold months ahead.
2. Change or Clean Your Air Filters
Air filters are an essential part of your HVAC system, ensuring clean airflow and preventing dust and debris from clogging the system. During the summer, air filters can become dirty and clogged from running the air conditioning frequently. Before switching to heating, make sure to check and either replace or clean your filters.
Dirty filters can reduce efficiency, increase energy costs, and put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. Ideally, you should change your filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter.
3. Test Your Thermostat Settings
Before the temperatures drop, it’s a good idea to test your thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly. Switch from cooling mode to heating mode and set the thermostat a few degrees higher than the current room temperature to check if your furnace kicks on. If your heating system doesn’t respond, it might indicate a problem with the thermostat or your HVAC system that needs professional attention.
If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, now is also the time to adjust your temperature settings for fall and winter. Consider setting lower temperatures at night and when the house is empty to save on energy bills. Smart thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules and make adjustments from your phone, helping you save money and maintain comfort effortlessly.
4. Check and Seal Air Ducts
Air ducts play a significant role in distributing warm air throughout your home. Over time, ducts can develop leaks or become clogged with dust, which can reduce your system’s efficiency and increase energy bills. According to the Department of Energy, leaky ducts can decrease heating efficiency by up to 20%.
Conduct a visual inspection of your ductwork for any visible gaps, leaks, or loose connections. You can also feel around the ducts while the system is running to check for escaping air. If you notice any issues, sealing the ducts with mastic sealant or metal tape can improve airflow and overall efficiency.
For a more thorough assessment, consider hiring a professional to perform a duct inspection and cleaning.
5. Clear Debris Around Outdoor Units
If you have an outdoor heat pump or air conditioning unit that works year-round, it’s essential to keep the area around it clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris that may have accumulated during the summer. Fall leaves can easily block airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary and potentially leading to damage over time.
Trim back any nearby shrubs or plants, and make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper airflow. Keeping the area clean will help your HVAC system run smoothly and efficiently.
6. Inspect Your Furnace or Heat Pump
If you rely on a furnace or heat pump for heating, fall is the perfect time to give it a thorough inspection. Make sure to:
- Check for any visible signs of damage or rust
- Ensure the pilot light is functioning properly (for gas furnaces)
- Clean the area around the furnace, removing any dust, debris, or flammable materials
- Replace the furnace filter if necessary
If your furnace is old or has been requiring frequent repairs, it might be time to consider a replacement before the cold weather arrives.
7. Ensure Proper Ventilation and Airflow
Good airflow is crucial for maintaining consistent and comfortable indoor temperatures. As part of your fall HVAC preparation, check your home’s vents and registers to ensure they are clean and free of blockages. Move any furniture or curtains that may be obstructing vents, and vacuum out any dust or debris that could restrict airflow.
Blocked or closed vents can cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear on the system.
8. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you have a gas furnace, it’s vital to test your carbon monoxide detectors as part of your fall HVAC maintenance. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if undetected, so having functioning detectors is critical for your safety. Test all detectors in your home, replace the batteries if needed, and consider replacing the unit if it’s older than five years.
Preparing your HVAC system for the fall season doesn’t take long, but it can make a big difference in your comfort, energy savings, and system reliability. By following these simple steps, you’ll be ready to welcome the cooler weather while ensuring your home stays warm and cozy all season long.
If you’re unsure about any aspect of your HVAC system or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Air Support HVAC. Our expert technicians are here to ensure your system is in top shape and ready to handle whatever fall and winter bring!
Need help preparing your HVAC system for fall? Call Air Support HVAC at (910) 537-5923 or visit https://airsupporthvac.com/ to schedule a service today!
