by Olivia

5 Easy Ways to Prepare Your HVAC System for Fall

The main reason is to prevent breakdowns and heating problems when you need your system. However, you can also do it to save money. Any issues with your system will translate to higher energy bills. That is why one of the ways to detect if your unit has an issue is to examine your recent energy bills.

Regular maintenance will also prolong the lifespan of your entire system, which means you won’t have to replace it when it’s beyond repair. And you won’t have to spend much money on HVAC repair in Cypress Tx because you’ll prevent and catch problems before they cause too much damage.

Lastly, regular maintenance can help you stay covered under warranty. Most manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance for the warranty to remain valid.

The Don’ts of HVAC Fall Maintenance

You can do various HVAC heating and cooling maintenance tasks independently, but getting a professional to handle some of them may be better. For instance, you probably will only want to open up your system if you’re sure what you’re doing.

Take your time with maintenance. Skipping or delaying it will only make the problems worse and more expensive to fix. Consider setting reminders or scheduling maintenance services in advance, so you remember.

Be sure to call for repair before your system breaks down. If you notice any strange noises or smells, lack of heat or cool air, excessive dust, high energy bills, or uneven temperatures, those are all signs that something is wrong, and you should get it checked out as soon as possible.

Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips

1. Check for debris or damage to your system, especially the outside unit
To ensure optimal airflow and prevent your compressor from working harder than necessary, it is essential to keep the area around your unit clean and clear of any obstacles. Consider trimming the grass around the outside unit and removing dead leaves or branches blocking the airflow. If there is any damage to the unit, it is best to have it repaired before the fall weather hits.

2. Check Your Filters
Dirty filters are known to impede airflow and make your system work harder than necessary, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. It could also be harmful healthwise as it can re-circulate dust and other allergens through your home.

Cleaning or replacing your filters every three months is a good rule of thumb, but you may need to do it more frequently if you have pets or live in an area with a lot of dust and pollen. Additionally, try to limit your system use when these allergens are at their peak to reduce the amount of them circulating through your home.

3. Invest in a Programmable, Smart Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save you money on your energy bills by allowing you to set the temperature for when you’re home and when you’re away. You’re not paying to heat or cool an empty house.

4. Check for Air Leaks
Check for any air leaks around your home to improve efficiency and prevent warm air from escaping. Windows and doors are familiar places for air leaks, but attic entryways, electrical outlets, and switch plates may also be a problem.

To test for leaks, hold a lit incense stick near suspected areas and see if the smoke wavers. If it does, that indicates you should seal the leak. Caulking or weather-stripping can usually take care of small air leaks. Larger ones may require professional help.

5. Get Your System Serviced Regularly
Even if everything is working fine with your system, it is always a good idea to have it serviced by a professional in HVAC services in Tomball before the start of the heating season. This way, potential problems can be caught and fixed before they become more prominent and expensive.

Your HVAC technician will do everything needed to keep your system working at its best and offer recommendations for any improvements the technician could make, which includes checking the refrigerant levels, inspecting the ductwork, and testing the airflow.

Preparing your HVAC system for the fall season can be a manageable task. By taking some time to do some simple maintenance and making a few adjustments, you can rest assured that your system will be ready to keep you comfortable throughout the entire cold season, including winter. At Chill Brothers, we offer air conditioning and furnace repair in Spring, TX, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What does fall HVAC service include?

A. To prevent your system from having standing water throughout the winter, clear drain lines and pipes. Remove any dirt and dust from the coil. Verify the ducts, belts, and pulleys, as well as the refrigerant charge. If you haven’t already had it done this year, thoroughly clean and inspect the entire system.

Q. Is annual HVAC maintenance necessary?

A. A well-functioning, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system requires routine maintenance. You may improve your indoor comfort all year long with an annual tune-up carried out twice a year, once for heating and once for cooling.

Q. What is preventative maintenance on HVAC?

A. Examine the amounts of refrigerant and look for leaks. Condenser coils should be cleaned and aligned to provide optimal airflow. Check for leaks at the gas connections. All electrical connections should be tightened.