Dirty filters in your air conditioner and furnace can cause the system to operate inefficiently all year long.
Before shutting down the AC unit for the fall season, make sure you replace or clean the air filter so it will be ready when it’s time to turn the unit on again.
Throughout the fall and winter months, stay on top of the filter changes for your furnace so the system will work correctly. You’ll want to replace the filter at least once every three months, but you may need to replace the filter sooner than that if it gets dirty quickly.
Remove Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Inspect the compressor unit outside your home. If you notice dirt, sticks, leaves, or other debris stuck in the grill or underneath it, clear these items away. You can even shut off the power to the unit and spray it down with a garden hose to remove dirt and dust. By cleaning out the debris, you ensure the unit will have proper airflow.
Test Your Heating System
It’s likely been several months since you last turned on your heater, and since that time, your unit may have decided it’s not going to work anymore. If this is the case, you’ll want to know before you really need it. That’s why fall is the perfect time to test your furnace.
Come October, turn up the thermostat high enough to engage the heater. If your home is heated relatively quickly and to the temperature you set it to, then your furnace is working as it should. However, if it doesn’t heat the room at all or just barely heats it, then you have time to schedule repairs. Also, an HVAC professional is likely to have more time to take care of your heater problems in the fall than in the winter because fewer people will be seeking their services.
This may also be the time to consider installing a smart thermostat, especially if you detect a problem with your current one. A smart thermostat can decrease your energy bills this fall and winter and give you more control over your HVAC system.
Seal Doors and Windows
Recaulk and weatherstrip your windows and doors to prevent drafts and reduce the amount of wasted energy. This step will also protect your energy bills from increasing drastically over the colder months.
Schedule a Maintenance Check
How often should you get your HVAC serviced? Great question! You should schedule professional HVAC maintenance for your heating system every fall.
During this maintenance check, an HVAC technician will thoroughly inspect the heater, ensuring each of its components is working properly. If there are any problems, they can fix them before they become bigger issues that deprive your household of warm air. They can also let you know if it’s time for an upgrade.
Get Ready With Us: Fall Edition
As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisper, you know it’s time to prepare your HVAC system for fall.
Get your heating and air conditioning units ready for a new season with the help of experienced HVAC professionals. We offer a range of HVAC services throughout Pittsburgh, PA, and the surrounding areas that will ensure your system operates efficiently and effectively all season long.