You will need to prepare your furnace for the heavy workload of the winter. There are some tasks you will need to take care of, but much of HVAC system maintenance will require expert attention. Make sure to contact us and we can come and inspect your HVAC system so it can perform efficiently during the upcoming months. Here are a few steps to prep your HVAC system for the fall season.
Regular Service
During preventive maintenance, we thoroughly examine your furnace to make sure that it is ready to give you the warmth you need when winter arrives. In addition, this house call will improve the overall efficiency of your system, resulting in a lower utility bill and less wear and tear on the unit.
Inspect the Filters
Hopefully, you change or clean the filter in your air conditioner and furnace regularly. Once you have changed the filter, remember that depending on the type, it may need to be cleaned or replaced every 90 days. Once per month might even be necessary if you run the system frequently. By checking the filter to make sure that it is not clogged with dirt or debris, you will help to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently and keep the air free of airborne allergens and contaminants.
Inspecting the Outdoor Parts
Once the temperatures get below freezing, you will not want to venture outdoors unless you absolutely must. To avoid an unnecessary trek outside during winter, take advantage of the current warm temperatures and see to some outdoor tasks. If you have a heat pump, you need to check the outside portion of the unit, for signs of debris or damage. To clean the unit, start by turning off the power. Then take a hose and rinse out all the dirt, leaves, and twigs that have accumulated over the spring and summer. If anything is stuck or difficult to remove or there is any sign of damage, make sure to contact us and we can inspect and repair it correctly.
Improving the Efficiency
During the service call, we will thoroughly clean your HVAC system. Before leaving your home, we will turn on the heat, and let it run for a few minutes to make sure everything is working properly. During this time, it may smell a bit odd from disuse, but that is normal. The real goal is to make sure that it is blowing out heat. In addition to scheduling preventive maintenance and staying on top of filter changes, there is more you can do to further aid the efficiency of your HVAC unit.
- Ensure you are using and programming your thermostat correctly. The preventive maintenance visit is a perfect time to check with us if you are unsure about how to correctly program your thermostat.
- Keep all vents and registers open so heat will circulate properly throughout your home. Keeping vents closed can damage the ductwork and HVAC system.
- To help your furnace to do its job, you will also need to check the windows and doors in your home and seal air leaks that can allow drafts. Caulk and weather-stripping are simple and inexpensive materials that go a long way toward reducing energy waste.
