The nights are getting shorter; we'll need to set the clocks back soon enough, and leaf-crunching season is closing in. Fall is an amazing time here in the Midwest, and your HVAC system will appreciate some tender, loving care ahead of a busy winter season. In this blog, we’ll cover top Fall maintenance tips for your heating and cooling system to help extend the life of your AC unit and furnace.
Why Fall Maintenance Matters
We are often asked if seasonal maintenance matters in the heating and cooling world, and we can tell you that it certainly does. Seasonal tune-ups help keep your heating and cooling system in good working order and ensure you enjoy consistent comfort year-round. As fall is the start of heating season, we normally focus on the furnace and air handler to make sure that your heating source is ready for yet another tough Midwest winter. However, some also use this time to prep their air conditioner or heat pump for winter, so you can get up and running during cooling season with a fully functional HVAC system.
Replace your Air Filter
Your air filter is one of the most important aspects of your HVAC system, and many people forget to replace it. This filter provides your home with fresh air and traps toxins, allergens and particulates that can spread within your duct system. Generally, you should change your air filter at least once every three months, but in a busier home, you may want to do it once a month or every two months, especially if you have people in your home with severe allergies.
Test your Thermostat
Next, check your home control system: your thermostat. This test is pretty straightforward: turn your heat on and set the temperature up to see whether your furnace or heat pump kicks in. Your heating system should turn on quickly; if it doesn't, contact your local HVAC technician, as this could indicate a wiring issue or another problem with your HVAC system.
Inspect your Vents and Registers
Over the summer months, your vents and registers may have been knocked, damaged or even closed without you knowing it. Do a quick check of each vent cover and register, and remove any dust or debris. If you close off your vents downstairs or in the basement during the cooling months, now is the time to open them again for proper airflow throughout the home.
Clean your Outdoor Unit
Whether you have an AC unit or a heat pump, cleaning your outdoor unit is such an important aspect of Fall maintenance. To properly clean the exterior of the unit, remove debris such as leaves, twigs, and weeds. You will also want to cut back the grass and remove any other vegetation that has started to creep over, such as a bush or a tree. Also, take your garden hose and give your unit a thorough spray-down to remove dust and debris. If it is an AC unit, you may want to put a piece of wood over the top after you shut the unit down for the winter to prevent any potential damage from ice or snow falling on it from your roof or a nearby tree.
Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Visit
One of the most important things that you can do during your Fall maintenance session is to schedule a professional HVAC maintenance visit. An HVAC technician can do wonders to ensure your home’s heating and cooling systems are functioning properly and ready for the winter ahead. Your typical HVAC maintenance visit will include a thorough inspection of your furnace, AC unit or heat pump, including the air handler and associated ductwork around your HVAC system. They will also test your thermostat and make sure that your system is functioning as it should.
This is also a great opportunity to discuss your system's health and whether you should start looking at replacement options down the line. Working with an honest, upfront heating and cooling company will help you have productive conversations about timelines and save up for larger expenses like replacing a furnace or air conditioner.
Fall is a great time to take advantage of the cooler weather and do quality maintenance on your heating and cooling units. From checking the thermostat to replacing the air filter and scheduling a professional HVAC maintenance visit, the ‘ber months are all about prepping for Winter and getting cozy, and a functioning heating system is certainly important for both of those things.
