As fall approaches, it’s time to start thinking about transitioning your HVAC system from cooling your home to heating it. If you have a relatively new and well-maintained system, you may not need to do much for this switch, but there are still important steps to take to ensure your system is ready for the cooler months. Here’s a guide to help you prepare, including some common mistakes to avoid.
1. Schedule a Maintenance Checkup
Even if your HVAC system seems to be working fine, it’s crucial to schedule a maintenance checkup with a professional from Unique Air Heating and Cooling at least once a year. This should ideally be done at the end of summer or the beginning of fall to ensure your system is ready for the winter. A maintenance checkup typically includes:
- Lubricating moving parts
- Tightening electrical connections
- Cleaning dirty coils
- Inspecting the heat exchanger and safety controls
- Calibrating the thermostat
Regular maintenance not only helps your system run efficiently but also extends its lifespan, ensuring it operates reliably for 15 to 25 years. If you haven’t scheduled your checkup yet, contact Unique Air Heating and Cooling to arrange a visit before fall sets in.
2. Change Your HVAC Filter
Your HVAC filter should be checked monthly and replaced as needed. The filter removes pollutants like pet dander, pollen, dust, and mold from your home’s air, making it especially important in the fall and winter when windows are closed and indoor air quality becomes more critical. Replacing your filter is simple and can be done with a quick trip to your local hardware store.
3. Clean Off Your Outdoor AC Unit
If you have central air conditioning, your outdoor AC unit can accumulate leaves, dirt, and debris, which can affect its performance. While you may not need your AC during the fall and winter, it’s still a good idea to clean the unit before it goes dormant. Use a brush to clear dirt from the fins covering the coils, remove any nearby vegetation, and prune bushes and tree branches that might obstruct the unit.
If you’re concerned about your unit, consider covering it with a tarp during the winter. However, make sure it’s completely dry before doing so to prevent moisture from causing corrosion.
4. Locate Drafts in Your Home
Drafts from gaps around doors and windows can become more noticeable as the weather cools. Before you rely on your furnace to keep your home warm, take some time to locate and seal any drafts. This can make your home feel warmer and help keep your heating bills down. If you’re unsure how to find or fix drafts, Unique Air Heating and Cooling can assist you with recommendations or professional services.
5. Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous, colorless, and odorless gas that can be produced by HVAC systems with blocked flues or damaged heat exchangers. To keep your family safe, ensure you have carbon monoxide detectors installed on every floor of your home. Test them before fall begins, just as you would test a smoke detector. If they’re not working, replace the batteries or the detectors themselves.
What Not to Do
While preparing your HVAC system for fall is largely a matter of common sense, there are some common mistakes to avoid. First, don’t wait until the last minute to address issues with your system. Delaying repairs can lead to bigger problems and higher costs, and it’s harder to get a technician to your home in the middle of winter.
Also, avoid storing items like grills or yard furniture too close to your outdoor AC unit, as it needs space to function properly. Similarly, don’t store anything too close to your furnace. Ensure there’s enough room around it for safe access in case repairs are needed.
Turn to Local Experts for Assistance
Whether your HVAC system needs a quick checkup or significant repairs before fall, Unique Air Heating and Cooling is here to help. Our team specializes in AC and furnace installation, repair, and maintenance, ensuring your system is in top shape for the colder months ahead. We also offer a range of crawl space and insulation services, as well as emergency HVAC repairs for homeowners in Gaston County, NC, and the surrounding areas. Contact Unique Air Heating and Cooling today for more information about our services.