How to Best Prepare Your HVAC System for Fall Weather
The fall season can be tough to prep for when the weather changes dramatically through the day—we’ve all started the day in a sweater and long pants and ended up in shorts by lunch. Your HVAC unit is made to withstand sudden changes in temperature, so long as it’s maintained properly.
Here are a couple of tips to help you ensure that your HVAC system is in its best condition to provide you comfort throughout fall.
Clean the AC Unit
Dust and dirt build up over time, and, unfortunately, your AC unit is not exempt from this. If the unit has a layer of dirt built up around it, it’s not going to do a good job of providing you with cool air. Not to mention the added expense for additional energy to cool your home down if the AC isn’t working at its most efficient.
It’s also liable to have dead bugs and spiderwebs strewn about that can affect the quality of the system. It can take mere minutes to clean so long as you do it regularly. An air conditioner coil cleaner is the best solution to use when cleaning your AC unit.
Check & Replace Air Filters
The air filters in your home are an integral component of your HVAC system, and without them your home will neither be cooled nor heated. It’s their job to remove airborne dust, dirt, and debris, and so it’s only natural that this causes a build up on the filter itself, which will then restrict airflow through your home.
Fiberglass filters ideally want to be replaced every thirty days, while pleated filters can last anywhere between three to six months.
Unblock Air Vents
If there’s any obstruction to your air vents then air will not be able to circulate your home properly, and your furnace and AC units are going to be working harder to perform. This is going to increase your energy bill and wear out your HVAC system, so it’s really useful to do a regular scan of your home to ensure all vents are clear.
Inspect the Heat Exchanger
If your home has a gas furnace, it’s good to check the heat exchanger for cracks and leaks to ensure that no fumes are being let loose into your home. The furnace is responsible for separating the fumes generated by burning gas from the clean air which circulates your living space. If there are any cracks or leaks, you’re subjecting yourself and your loved ones to some very harmful fumes.
Don’t take any chances, and if you detect that your furnace has been compromised you should call a professional immediately.
Additionally, you should dust or vacuum any collection of debris on or around your furnace to ensure it can work undisturbed.
Upgrade Your Unit
If your unit is getting up there in age, fall is the best time to schedule an upgrade while contractors are typically less busy than in the height of summer and winter.
If you have any problems with your HVAC system or would like to discuss an upgrade, don’t hesitate to call us here at Acker Heating & Cooling!