7 Tips to Get Your HVAC System Ready for Autumn

Autumn weather brings special challenges for your HVAC system. Luckily, there are a few steps that you can take to get yours ready for the cool weather. Following them ensures your HVAC system stays humming through the fall and winter months!

Preparing Your HVAC System for Fall

Getting your HVAC system ready for fall is easy if you know what to do. Check out some must-do steps to ensure your HVAC system stays working through the fall months!

Change Your Air Filter

When going into fall, changing your air filter is essential. The summer can expose your HVAC system to a heavy dose of pollen, dust, wildfire smoke, and other particulate matter. If you live in a hotter climate, you may have spent much of that time inside. Swapping out your air filter gives your home or business a fresh start for a new season.

Clean Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can get dirty over the spring and summer. Dust, mold, and allergens can build up in its tubes and reduce its overall efficiency. Your outdoor unit will need extra special care since it’s exposed to the elements. Cleaning your HVAC system can also improve your indoor air quality.

Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Checkup

You should schedule an annual maintenance checkup for your HVAC system. An inspection can ensure that your HVAC system performs efficiently throughout the coldest months. Some of the typical HVAC maintenance tasks an inspector will do may include the following:

• Tighten wiring connections and contacts
• Remove dust and buildup from dirty coils
• Ensure the heating system and thermostat properly communicate
• Lubricate the blower motor’s bearings
• Inspect the heat exchanger and ensure it’s working properly
• Check the HVAC system’s safety controls

It can be easy to forget to schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment, but it’s critical to the health of your system. Some HVAC companies offer maintenance plans and handle all of the scheduling for you.

Seal Air Leaks

Seal any air leaks to prepare for the cool autumn temperatures. Air leaks can cause your home or business to lose warm air, increasing your power bills. Leaks can also stress your window frames or air ducts, causing damage.

Check your ducts for leaks and seal them with mastic or aluminum tape. For leaks around your window, use weather-stripping or caulking to seal any gaps. Test each leak you seal for airflow to ensure you sealed them properly.

Get Tested for Allergies

Autumn brings its seasonal varieties of air pollutants, and you may be allergic to some without even knowing it. Fall can be a major allergy season, thanks to its unique conditions. Even though few plants bloom in the season, the abundant leaf litter provides a fertile home for various molds. Ragweed is also a significant fall allergen you may be exposed to regularly.

Getting tested for allergies can help you be aware of your vulnerabilities. By knowing what these are, you can take steps to remove them from around your home or business and limit your overall exposure.

Check Your Fire Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors, and Smoke Detectors

Prepping your HVAC system for fall is a great time also to check your fire alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and smoke detectors. These need to be checked every six months or so. Replace the batteries, even if the detectors and alarms usually work. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, you should replace your fire alarms and smoke detectors every ten years.

Make Any HVAC Repairs Before Winter

It’s essential to make any HVAC system repairs before winter begins. Working on an HVAC system during the winter can be harder without disrupting your home life. The cold temperatures can even be dangerous, especially if you have young children or older people in your home.

Stay On Top of Your HVAC Needs Throughout The Year

The best thing you can do for your fall HVAC need is to ensure your HVAC system gets the care it needs throughout the year. It’s easy to lose track of your HVAC repair and maintenance schedule over the year. However, missing an appointment or two could lead to a problem that damages your HVAC system.