As the warm, sun-soaked days of summer fade into the crisp, cool embrace of fall, the homes of Hampton Roads and the greater 757 area will require less and less from their air conditioners. This in-between-season, known as a shoulder season, can be bittersweet as we say goodbye to the summer fun, but many homeowners are more than willing to say goodbye to their summer energy bills.
Shoulder seasons are the perfect time to ensure your home’s heating and cooling system is in top shape, and that those high energy bills don’t follow you into the winter. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial not only for ensuring optimal efficiency but also for guaranteeing the comfort of your home throughout all seasons! Here are the things you should do for your HVAC system as summer turns to fall.
1. Clean or Replace Air Filters
One of the most straightforward, yet essential, tasks in HVAC maintenance is taking care of the air filters in both your furnace and air conditioner. Over time, these filters clog with dust, pollen, pet hair, and other airborne particles. A dirty filter can reduce airflow, forcing your systems to use more energy and provide less of the conditioned air you need. Before fall sets in, make sure to clean or replace your air filters.
For central heating and cooling systems, the air filter is most often located in the air handler (the metal box connected to central ductwork) and clogged filters can be swapped for brand-new ones. If your home utilizes the efficiency and versatility of heat pumps, the air filters are removable and reusable screen material that can be cleaned with water, dried, and reinserted.
Not sure where your air filters are? Call Worley’s Home Services — we repair and maintain all makes and models of ACs, furnaces, and heat pumps.
2. Visually Inspect the Heating System
Before the first cold snap hits, you’ll want to make sure your heating system is ready from the get-go. Start by visually inspecting the system for any obvious signs of wear and tear, rust, or corrosion. But most importantly, do a test run. Turn your thermostat to “heat”, then listen for any unusual noises and check to see if warm air starts to come out of your vents.
3. Check for Leaks or Airflow Issues
Air leaks throughout the home or blockages in your air vents can be a significant source of energy waste and will prevent your home from staying warm through the winter. As part of your fall HVAC maintenance, check for any visible blockages inside your air vents and note any leaks or air gaps throughout your home, especially around windows, doors, and in the attic or crawlspace.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance
DIY maintenance tasks for furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps will go a long way in making sure large problems are identified before you are in dire need of heat for your home. However, there’s no substitute for a professional touch. Worley’s Home Services specializes in heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, and insulation and has the tools and knowledge to spot potential problems that might escape the untrained eye. Benefits of professional maintenance include:
- Reliable and stable heating all winter
- Reduced heating costs
- Cleaner indoor air quality
- Longer lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment
Ready for a Warm and Cozy Fall? Contact Worley’s
As the golden leaves begin to fall, don’t be left in the cold. Ensuring your HVAC system is in top condition is not just about comfort; it’s about creating a reliable haven for you and your loved ones. Our team of professionals is ready to ensure your home is warm, cozy, and efficient all season long. Don’t wait; give your home the care it deserves today!
