As with any other season, there are a few activities you can complete in the fall to ensure optimal performance of your HVAC system for the cooler months ahead. It’s also a great time to assess your heating and cooling system’s condition to avoid surprises in energy bills. Annual inspections by a certified technician are the key to reducing maintenance costs over time, but there is some maintenance that you can do yourself to help keep costs to a minimum.
- Clear debris away from any outdoor vents, pipes, heat pumps, or air conditioning units. Remove leaves, grass, or trash from the vicinity of any of these to make sure there is ample airflow and they can operate at peak performance.
- Check your thermostat settings, especially if you have a programmable thermostat to make sure it’s set to keep you comfortable as cooler temps move in. It can also save you money on your fuel bill.
- Give your home a good cleaning. Removing extra dust, dander, and allergens from your home, especially heat registers and baseboard heaters, will also minimize the amount of dirt, dust, and debris that goes through your HVAC system. This is especially important during the winter when you aren’t opening windows and letting in fresh air.
- Change your filters. This should be done every few months but a good rule of thumb is to change them with the seasons. This allows your HVAC system to work more efficiently and removing excess dirt and debris that can cause breathing issues, especially for those with asthma.
- Look for excess moisture. Mold can develop near drain pans or due to clogged lines. Remove any excess water and look for any clogged lines
- Give your HVAC equipment a once over. Is it making any weird noises, is there an excess of rust, does anything look broken or out of place? Replacing or repairing parts now can be much more cost-effective than during a cold snap when your system completely fails.
- Finally, be sure to call your local HVAC maintenance professional for a fall maintenance appointment. Some HVAC systems, (especially furnaces that are gas-powered) require the expertise of a highly trained technician for essential maintenance tasks. During a seasonal inspection, he or she will ensure that all of your HVAC equipment is clean and functioning properly.
Heating systems are made up of sophisticated equipment which requires proper maintenance to improve their performance and efficiency. Therefore, it’s best to leave specific jobs to the professionals. Many reliable HVAC contractors provide the necessary cleaning, care, and checkup to ensure that your heating system makes your home comfortable during the cold months. Hence, schedule a professional fall HVAC maintenance on a priority.
