As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s time for homeowners to turn their attention to an often overlooked but important task: fall HVAC maintenance.
Fall maintenance is your opportunity to ensure that when winter’s chill sets in, you’re not left in the cold with an unexpected breakdown. By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid the inconvenience and discomfort of a malfunctioning heating system during the coldest months of the year. Moreover, regular maintenance can lead to improved energy efficiency, potentially lowering your utility bills and extending the life of your HVAC system.
In this guide, we’ll walk through an essential fall HVAC maintenance checklist together. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to face the cooler weather with confidence, knowing that your home will remain a cozy shelter throughout the winter months ahead.
Check Thermostat
If you have a programmable thermostat, now is the time to adjust your settings for fall and winter.
Program different temperatures for times when you’re home, away, or sleeping to optimize comfort and energy efficiency. Consider setting the temperature a few degrees lower when you’re asleep or away to save on energy costs. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider upgrading to one for better control and energy savings.
Keep Your AC and Heating Systems Clean
If you have an outdoor unit, clean it weekly for debris such as leaves, pollen, dirt, and sticks. Wear gloves and use a hose if necessary to clear debris from the top and sides of the unit. Leave about two feet of clear space around the unit for optimal airflow by trimming nearby bushes or plants that might obstruct airflow to the unit.
Keep Your HVAC Registers and Ducts Clean
Regularly wipe down your registers to prevent dust and debris from entering your system. Check for any visible damage or disconnections in ductwork and replace air filters monthly or as recommended by your HVAC system’s manufacturer.
Pro tip: this might also be a good time to have your ducts professionally cleaned if you haven’t done so in several years.
Ensure Safety by Removing Combustible Products Away From Your Furnace
Clear a space of at least three feet around your furnace by removing any combustible items. Store household chemicals, paints, and other flammable materials well away from heating appliances, and check that your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly by replacing their batteries. If you smell gas near your furnace, leave immediately and call your gas company or emergency services.
Replace the Water Panel in Your Home Humidifier
If you use a whole-house humidifier, clean it thoroughly before the heating season begins. For optimal performance, replace the water panel, or filter, at the onset of fall so that it’s well-prepared for the incoming cold season. Set the humidistat to an appropriate level for fall and winter (usually between 30-40% relative humidity).
Clear Outside Vents and Chimneys
Inspect all exterior vents, flues, and chimneys for obstructions like leaves, debris, or animal nests.
Pay special attention to your HVAC vents, ensuring they are clear and unobstructed. Remember that clogged vents and chimneys are a major fire hazard. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that failure to clean equipment, especially chimneys, is the leading cause of heating-related residential fires.
Pro tip: if you’re not comfortable cleaning these hard-to-reach spaces yourself, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician.
Monitor Your System for Unusual Sounds
Listen carefully to your HVAC system when it’s running. Unusual noises — such as knocking and rattling — can be early indicators of developing problems. Common causes of strange noises include:
- Register blockages
- Debris in the vents
- Loose bolts on the furnace or registers
If you hear an odd noise, try to locate the source. Check registers and visible ductwork for obvious issues.
For persistent or unidentifiable noises, consult with an HVAC specialist who can help you understand the potential issue and how to address it.
Look for Water Leaks Around Your Boiler
Regularly inspect the area around your boiler for any signs of water leakage. Boiler leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including corrosion, pressure issues, improper installation, damaged seals, or old age. If you notice any water leaking from your boiler, take immediate action by calling an HVAC professional for water leak repair as soon as possible. While waiting for the technician, disable the boiler’s water and power supply to prevent further damage and leakage.
This leads to the final step in our fall HVAC maintenance checklist…
Understand When It’s Time to Call an HVAC Expert
Regular, professional maintenance can extend the life of your system, improve its efficiency, and prevent costly breakdowns. In fact, many manufacturers require annual preventative maintenance to keep the warranty valid — so check your system’s warranty to see if this applies to your setup.
As a general rule of thumb, book your service appointments early before HVAC professionals get busy with emergency calls. During a professional fall HVAC tune-up session, the technician will:
- Inspect your system for potential problems
- Adjust loose bolts and wires
- Address any specific issues or concerns you may have
- Perform necessary cleaning and maintenance
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By following these fall HVAC maintenance tips, homeowners can ensure their HVAC systems are ready for the cooler months ahead, boosting efficiency, safety, and comfort throughout the fall and winter seasons.
When your fall HVAC maintenance needs require professional attention, turn to the best in Las Vegas — contact BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair. We’re Las Vegas Valley’s most trusted HVAC company, providing homeowners with AC repair, heating and furnace repair, and all other related HVAC needs that are especially crucial in the fall season as colder weather approaches.
Choose BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair for reliable, professional HVAC services that keep your home or business comfortable year-round. Book a Fall HVAC maintenance tune up appointment or call us at (702) 710-8452 and see for yourself the difference that comes with years of localized expertise and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
