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Fall is officially here, so it's time to start preparing your HVAC system for the cooler weather ahead. While fall is a time for fun activities such as pumpkin picking, decorating your home, and finding Halloween costumes for the kids, there are still a few HVAC tasks you should be taking care of.
To make sure your system is running as efficiently as possible and doesn't break down during the winter, R. Brooks Mechanical will be sharing a few tips all homeowners should follow in order to prepare their HVAC system for the new season. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most important tasks you should perform before turning on your heat for the first time this season.
Replace Your Air Filter
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your HVAC system for fall is to replace the air filter. A dirty air filter will not only make your system work harder, but it can also lead to a number of problems, such as reduced airflow and higher energy bills. Be sure to check your air filter monthly and replace it as needed.
Pro tip: Before you head to your local home improvement store to purchase a new filter, be sure to check the size of your current filter so you can buy the correct one!
Clean the Outdoor Unit
In addition to replacing the air filter, you should also clean the outdoor unit of your HVAC system. This is especially important if you live in an area where there are a lot of trees or other debris that can clog up the unit. To clean the outdoor unit, simply turn off the system, remove any debris from around the unit, and use a garden hose to remove any dirt or leaves that may be inside the unit. It’s always best to keep at least a few feet of clear space around your outdoor unit.
Schedule Maintenance
Once you have replaced the air filter and cleaned the outdoor unit, it's time to schedule maintenance for your HVAC system. While most people think of HVAC maintenance as something that should be done in spring, fall is also a great time to have your system serviced. This is because R. Brooks Mechanical can identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues in the winter, and we can also make sure your system is running as efficiently as possible.
Schedule Repairs
If there are any needed repairs that R. Brooks Mechanical suggests during your maintenance appointment, don’t wait to schedule them! There’s nothing worse than an HVAC system that breaks down in the middle of winter. Schedule your repair appointment as soon as possible to ensure your system is running smoothly all season.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Finally, you should adjust your thermostat before turning on your heat for the first time this season. If you deal with a case of thermostat wars in your home, try to find a temperature that everyone in your household can be comfortable with. While it might be difficult to please everyone, always avoid cranking your thermostat too high because this will cause your energy bill to skyrocket. Turning on your heat and slowly increasing the temperature will keep your household comfortable and save you money on your energy bill.
By following these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to preparing your HVAC system for fall. If you have any questions about your HVAC system or need to schedule maintenance, contact R. Brooks Mechanical at (855) 912-6489 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment. We will be able to help you with anything you need to get your system ready for the season.