As the warm summer days give way to the crisp coolness of autumn, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare your home for the changing season. One of the most important tasks for homeowners is ensuring that their HVAC system is ready to handle the cooler temperatures. Here are five things you need to be aware of to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient throughout autumn.
- Replace Your Air Filters
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prepare your HVAC system for autumn is by replacing air filters. Dirty or clogged filters can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency, forcing it to work harder to heat your home. This not only leads to higher energy bills but can also cause premature wear and tear on your system. Check your filters monthly and replace them at least every three months or as recommended by your HVAC manufacturer. Certain permanent or semi-permanent filters can be cleaned, but it is best to simply replace the filters most commonly used in household wall or ceiling returns. Pro tip: we recommend using the lower-cost air filters as opposed to the more expensive one. Inexpensive air filters generally have a lower MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. While they may not capture as many tiny particles, they allow for better airflow through the HVAC system. Better airflow means your system doesn’t have to work as hard to circulate air throughout your home, which can lead to improved efficiency and potentially lower energy bills. The higher MERV-rated filters can also cause your system to work harder if it’s not designed to handle that type of filer, leading to increased wear and tear.
- Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection and Maintenance
Before the autumn chill sets in, it’s crucial to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and service your system. During a maintenance visit, the technician will check for any potential issues, clean components, and ensure that everything is running smoothly. Regular maintenance can help prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. Plus, it’s always better to catch minor problems before they become major, costly repairs. Our HVAC Preventative Maintenance Plan keeps your system in good working order all year long for only $16.58 a month. Read more about the plan by clicking here and check out this behind-the-scenes video with Service Supervisor Jordan as she walks you through what we do during our regular preventative maintenance visits.
- Check and Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause significant heat loss, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. To improve efficiency and reduce energy costs, inspect your home for drafts and seal any leaks with weatherstripping or caulk. Pay special attention to areas where different building materials meet and where pipes and wires enter your home. Proper insulation is also key to keeping warm air inside and cold air out.
- Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
As the weather changes, so should your thermostat settings. Programming your thermostat to match your daily schedule can save energy and reduce heating costs. Consider lowering the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home and setting it to a comfortable level when you’re active. Smart thermostats can automate these adjustments, learning your habits over time and making temperature changes accordingly, which can lead to even greater energy savings.
- Inspect and Clean Vents and Ductwork
Dust, debris, and allergens can accumulate in your home’s ductwork and vents over time, restricting airflow and reducing the efficiency of your HVAC system. Take the time to clean your vents and registers and ensure that nothing is blocking them. If you notice a significant buildup of dust or suspect mold growth, it may be wise to have your ductwork professionally cleaned. Clean ducts mean better air quality and a more efficient system, which is essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment. Want to see how this process works? Check out this video that shows how we turn those dirty ducts into clean ducts!
___
By taking these five steps, you can ensure that your HVAC system is ready to keep you warm and cozy all autumn long. At Comfortable Climate Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re committed to helping you maintain your HVAC systems and enjoy peace of mind year-round. If you need professional HVAC services or have any questions about preparing your system for the season, don’t hesitate to contact us for free estimate at (804) 693-1125.
