Des Moines is getting ready to go back to school and back to cooler temperatures as summer comes to a close. As preparations are made to face the fall season, it is important that homeowners not neglect their HVAC system tune ups!
Things You Can do to Prepare Your Furnace for Fall
Check on Your Air Filters
Although you may already be in the practice of doing so, it is worth noting the importance of regularly replacing your HVAC filters when necessary! If left unchecked, keeping the same filter in your heating or cooling system can cause various issues.
Staying on top of furnace filter changes prevents your system from running on an excessively dirty filter. This is important, because dirty filters make your system work harder than necessary. The results could be:
- Less energy-efficient
- More expensive utility bills
- Dirty home air
- Prevent the ability of a home humidifier to work well
- Difficulty reaching your desired thermostat temperature
When it comes to changing from the hot months to a cooler season, it is a good idea to replace your AC filter before shutting it down for the fall and winter. That way, it will be ready to go as soon as warmer weather comes again.
Clear Away Debris Near Outdoor Unit
It is not uncommon for homeowners to forget about the outdoor aspect of their HVAC system. An outdoor unit should be kept clear of debris, plant growth, and other things that could potentially damage the unit. If you have an outdoor unit, we recommend removing all debris around the area to ensure proper airflow. If dirt or leaves make their way inside the unit, be sure to call a professional and do not attempt to fix or deep clean it yourself. Attempting to open up your outdoor unit or troubleshooting it may void your warranty and pose a threat to your own safety. When in doubt, it is always better to call a professional HVAC technician.
Seal Off Drafty Areas
Although not a part of your HVAC equipment, performing general maintenance on your home’s ability to keep you warm is key to ensuring your furnace doesn’t have to work harder than necessary this fall. Once temperatures start to fall consistently, many people consider putting shrink plastic on drafty exterior windows or sliding glass doors. Other home measures you can take to seal up any drafts might include:
- Install weatherstripping on doors and windows
- Install a custom door sweep to match your paint color
- Remove any window AC units and lock windows
- Hang heavy thermal curtains
- Use a weighted fabric door snake (or a rolled up towel)
Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Perhaps the most important and most helpful way to ensure your heating system is ready for fall, and that your cooling system is properly shut down for the season, is to schedule a routine checkup with a professional HVAC technician. Our Wyckoff Heating & Cooling Team works with you to bring peace of mind under your roof through our tune-up services and HVAC system checks. Contact us today to get on the schedule!
Upgrading Your Heating System
If your current system is at the end of its life and/or you’ve run into too many problems with your heating or cooling system, it may be worth considering an upgrade this year. There are some signs that you may need to replace your system, but the best way to know is by getting it checked by a professional. A skilled technician will be able to assess and analyze the age, performance, efficiency, and health of your heating and cooling system and provide you with options for moving forward. Perhaps the best way for you to prepare for the cold weather this year is to make the investment in a newer and reliable furnace or HVAC system.