End-of-Summer HVAC Maintenance Checklist – Welcome Fall!
As the summer season wanes and we transition into cooler months, it’s essential to give your HVAC system the TLC it needs to ensure it continues to operate efficiently. Regular maintenance can prevent future expensive repairs, extend the life of your system, and keep your energy bills in check. Here’s your end-of-summer HVAC maintenance checklist:
1. Replace or Clean Air Filters
The simplest yet most crucial step is to replace or clean your air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary. Plus, a filter that gets TOO dirty, can even cause your system to shut down completely. Aim to change your air filter every 1-3 months.
2. Check Thermostat Settings
With the change in seasons, it’s a good time to adjust your thermostat settings. Program it for the cooler weather or look into upgrading to a smart thermostat for better efficiency.
3. Inspect Your Outdoor Unit
Remove any debris such as leaves, dirt, and branches from around your outdoor unit. Ensure there’s at least two feet of clearance to facilitate proper airflow. During the fall, you may have to clear your outdoor unit more than usual because of falling leaves and debris from hurricane season.
4. Clean Vents and Registers
Dust and debris can accumulate on vents and registers, which can impact airflow. Use a vacuum to clean them and check for any blockages. Ensure vents are cleared of obstructions as well to ensure proper air flow throughout your home.
5. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Having a professional technician inspect your HVAC system ensures it is in peak condition and running at maximum efficiency to help save you money in the short run, and the long run. They can identify issues before they become major problems, causing you to need emergency repairs. Prevent problems before they happen!
6. Check Insulation
Good insulation helps maintain your home’s temperature. Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and floors and add more if necessary.
7. Look for Air Leaks
Seal any gaps or cracks in doors and windows to prevent conditioned air from escaping and outside air from coming in. This will help your system run more efficiently and also help to better control humidity in your home.
8. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
During the winter, if you’re using a furnace, you need to be sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly in case of an HVAC malfunction. Protect your household by inspecting your CO2 detectors and replace batteries if necessary.
9. Review Your HVAC System’s Performance
Reflect on how your HVAC system handled the summer. If there were issues like short cycling, strange noises, leaks, high humidity, or uncomfortable temperatures, address them with a technician and consider upgrading your system.
Contact Us
If you think you might be interested in, or want to learn more about our high-efficiency HVAC systems or if you need professional HVAC maintenance, Air Refrigeration and Contracting is the only name you need to know.
Air Refrigeration and Contracting is a trusted American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Customer Care Dealer in Brewton, AL. Call us at 251-867-9255 for more information and follow us on social media for more helpful home tips.
