As fall approaches, it is time to shift focus from cooling to heating. The crisp air and colorful leaves serve as a reminder that colder weather is on the horizon. Now is the time to prepare your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Proper maintenance extends your system’s life span, saves energy, and keeps your home comfortable throughout the fall and winter seasons. Here is what you need to do to prepare your HVAC system for the cooler months.
Change Your Air Filter
Your air filter works hard to improve indoor air quality by trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. When it is clogged or dirty, that can restrict airflow. In turn, your unit will need to work harder. One of the easiest tips for your fall maintenance list is to change the air filter. You should think about doing this every one to three months. If you have autumn allergies or other respiratory issues, then it could be time to upgrade to a high-efficiency filter.
Check for Air Leaks
When the winter chill settles into your area, you don’t want to feel a draft in your home. Any air leaks can reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency by allowing warm air to escape and cold air to enter. As a result, you are left with higher energy bills and a less comfortable residence. Check around doors, windows, and ductwork for any gaps, cracks, or other signs of leaks. If the issue concerns the ductwork, you may need a professional to seal and fix the problem.
Inspect the System’s Components
The motor, belts, and pulleys are the main components of your HVAC system. Like any part, they can wear out, crack, or become loose. When they fail, that can lead to system malfunctions or breakdowns. You should inspect these areas for any signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying, or strange sounds. However, if you spot something, make sure to contact a professional. If you try to do it yourself, you could cause more damage to your system. A skilled technician has the right tools to make sure the issue is fixed right the first time.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
If you have a central air conditioning system, the outdoor condenser unit needs attention, even after summer ends. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can accumulate around it. That can obstruct airflow and put additional strain on the system. Before the weather turns colder, you may want to take a day to clean the outdoor unit.
During this time, remove any debris from around the condenser fins. These areas can collect debris and grime throughout the spring and summer months. You may need to use a soft brush or hose to clean them. After you finish, use a breathable cover to protect the unit from snow, ice, and debris during winter. Once the weather warms up, you will have a clean and protected system ready for the new season.
Test Your Heating System
Testing your heating system before the cold weather sets in makes sure that you have a reliable operation throughout the winter. During this time, you can address any issues early before you need your heating system the most.
You will want to pay attention to any sounds that seem out of the ordinary, such as banging, clanking, or grinding. These noises could indicate issues with components like the blower motor, belts, or bearings. After turning on the system, you may want to walk through your home. Each room should receive consistent heat. If you notice cold spots or rooms that are warmer than others, it could be a sign of issues with the ductwork.
Your thermostat needs to reflect the actual temperature in your home. If that reading does not match the actual temperature, the device may require calibration or replacement.
Check for Carbon Monoxide Leaks
As your heating system kicks into high gear, you want to make sure everyone stays safe. You should perform a carbon monoxide (CO) check. This colorless, odorless gas can be deadly if it accumulates in enclosed spaces. While detectors can be put in your home to detect the gas, you should check other potential safety issues around your HVAC system. If you have a gas furnace, any yellow or flickering flames in gas appliances could indicate a leak. In these cases, leave your home and contact a trained professional immediately.
Reach out to our expert technicians if you don’t have time to complete these maintenance tasks. At Tuck & Howell, Inc., we offer full heating and cooling services in Greenville, SC. We can also assist with plumbing, indoor air quality, and ductwork issues. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
