As you get your home ready for the fall season, it is important to ensure that your HVAC system is ready for the cooler weather to come. Below, we will discuss some important steps to ensure that your home cooling and heating system is ready for the season.

Replace Your Air Filters

HVAC air filters should be replaced every season. Changing your filter can improve air quality in your home. Replacement also improves the efficiency of your HVAC system. It is generally recommended to replace your filter every 90 days. If you have pets, filter replacement should occur every 45-60 days. Smoking inside your home can also speed up the life expectancy of your filter.

Cleaning Outdoor HVAC Units and Fans

Outdoor units for the HVAC system need to be cleared of dirt and debris. Inspect the unit for any potential damage. Cut shrubbery, trees, and grasses away from the units if needed. Rake and sweep away any leaves, twigs, rocks, and other debris near the unit. Ventilation fans and other outdoor access points should also be cleaned and cleared of debris.

Clear Your HVAC Vents

Vents can collect dust and debris throughout the season. Additionally, furniture might block some of your vents. This can create efficiency issues throughout the home. Make sure your vents are unobstructed. Vacuum vents to clear dust, especially any intake vents. The brush attachment can help dislodge the dust. Consider removing vent plates and washing them thoroughly for best results. Dry them properly before returning them to the wall. Overall, vent cleaning helps improve efficiency and air quality in your home.

Cleaning Air Ducts

While vent plates are detached, consider cleaning your ducts themselves. Use the hose attachment on your vacuum to clear dust and debris from the duct interior. Cleaning out the ducts can do wonders for improving air quality in your home. This is especially important if you have pets or smoke indoors.

Check Window Sealing

Window seals can degrade over time, leading to air leaks and drafts. While not directly associated with your HVAC system, an improperly sealed window can make your heater work overtime. Check out our previous article on the subject for more info.

Professional HVAC Maintenance Check

You should hire an HVAC professional to provide a maintenance check of your system. They can help ensure that your system is running safely and efficiently. This can be especially important before kicking on your furnace for the Winter. You don’t want to wait until you need your heat to find out that it is broken.

Consider Upgrades

HVAC units will eventually break or need replacing. Spring and fall are the best time to replace them, as you won’t immediately need them. Many HVAC specialists recommend using the $5,000 rule to determine if replacement is needed. Multiply the cost of repairs by the number of years you’ve had your system. If the number exceeds $5,000, it is probably worth replacing. Otherwise, the repairs are probably worth doing.

Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat may also be a great way to improve your home’s HVAC system this fall. Smart thermostats allow you to schedule temperature changes, or alter them from your phone. This is great for ensuring energy efficiency when no one is home. It is also convenient to be able to adjust the thermostat from the couch.

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