Fall HVAC Checklist: Are You Ready for Cooler Weather
Is there anything quite like the transition from summer to fall here in the Pacific Northwest?
We love this season in Vancouver and want to ensure your HVAC system is prepared to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the winter.
HVAC Tips for Fall: Is Your System is Ready for Cooler Weather
To help, we've created an easy-to-follow checklist to prep your HVAC system for the cooler months ahead. If you prefer a printed checklist, you can download our free printable here.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
One of the best ways you can protect your HVAC system is by scheduling an HVAC inspection in the fall. Get in touch with us at Miller's Heating and Air to schedule one of our local HVAC technicians. They can perform a routine checkup and make sure your system is ready to rock for winter.
During this inspection, your tech will:
Check electrical connections
Inspect heat exchangers, burners, and ignition
Replace worn belts, pulleys, and filters
Lubricate moving parts
Replace or Clean Air Filters
Dirty air filters can make for an inefficient system. This is because dirt, debris, and other foreign particles can put stress on its internal components.
We recommend checking your air filter each month, though fall is more important than ever. If your filter has met the end of its lifespan (typically every 90 days), replacing it is as easy as pie!
Check Thermostat Settings
Not many homeowners know the ideal thermostat settings for winter.
During daytime, it's recommended that you aim for around 72° F (22° C). However, when you're sleeping or away from home, you can take it down to 66° F (19° C).
If you don't have one already, we highly suggest upgrading to a programmable thermostat. You will then be able to automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on a pre-set schedule.
Clean and Inspect Ductwork
There are many benefits to cleaning your air ducts:
Reduced allergens
Increased energy efficiency
Better air quality
Mold removal
During your duct cleaning process, check to see that everything is completely sealed. Doing so can minimize the possibility of harmful contaminants getting into the ducts and circulating throughout the home.
Test the Heating System
When you test your heating system prior to winter, you can ensure that it'll operate at peak performance once the cool months roll around. The best part about your heating system working optimally is that you reduce your carbon footprint while slashing your energy bills.
A Miller's Heating and Air HVAC technician will perform a standard tune-up to address any potential issues with your heating system before they escalate.
Inspect and Clean Vents and Registers
Cleaning your vents and registers is one of the best ways to mitigate blockage and improve airflow throughout your system. The better your system's airflow, the more efficient your heating will be.
Inspecting for blockages is a pretty straightforward process. Start by opening up your vents and looking for common obstructions, such as pet hair, dirt, dust, and debris. From there, use a damp microfiber cloth or vacuum to remove any unusual suspects.
We also recommend inspecting for any signs of mold or mildew growth, as these can also have a negative impact on your system's airflow and your family's health.
Check and Clear the Outdoor Unit
Regularly getting rid of any loose debris, such as twigs or leaves, from around your outdoor unit, is one of the best things you can do to increase the efficiency of your system. If left alone, this debris can accumulate and block your system's airflow.
With any old broom or rake that you have lying around the house, you can easily sweep the debris away from the outdoor unit area.
Seal Windows and Doors
If your home isn't heating as efficiently as it should, it might not even be an issue with your HVAC unit. One of the biggest issues we see with old homes is gaps in the windows and doors, which allow warm indoor air out and cool outdoor air in. This can just be from regular wear and tear. This can often times be reflected in higher utility bills.
With proper sealing, however, you can mitigate heat loss by up to 40%.
The best permanent solution for small gaps in windows and doors is caulking. However, if you're looking for something a bit more temporary, you can also use weather stripping. Here's an easy-to-follow video to do it yourself!
Review Insulation
Even the most advanced HVAC systems have a hard time maintaining optimal internal temperatures without proper insulation. Think of your home's insulation as the barrier between the cold winter air outside and the heat created inside your home.
Without that physical thermal resistance, your system has to work overtime to reach your desired temperature.
If your HVAC system is doing fine, yet you've noticed higher energy bills, inconsistent indoor temperatures, or drafts near windows and doors, it might be a sign that you need to check and upgrade your insulation.
Plan for Regular Maintenance: Prepare HVAC for winter
Of course, there's no better way to keep your HVAC system in top-tier condition than setting up seasonal HVAC maintenance. Don't forget, Miller's Heating and Air would love to be your local HVAC technician!
While Some people prefer the minimum bi-annual checkup, other folks prefer enrolling in an HVAC maintenance service plan.
There are many benefits to doing so, including automatic reminders, priority service, and installation, and discounted repairs and services.
Get Your Free Checklist!
If you prefer a printed checklist, you can download our free printable fall HVAC tips.
With the right preventative maintenance this fall, you'll have peace of mind knowing you've done everything you can to keep your energy bills low. This will also help prevent an HVAC breakdown in the dead of winter when you need it most.
By following the checklist above and a heating system check-up you can ensure that your system will run smoothly all winter long!
We are Here to Help!
If you’re in the Vancouver or the Portland metro, we are here to help with fall HVAC maintenance tips or a consultation. Please, give us a call for a free consultation today if you think your system needs a repair or maintenance. If you are in Vancouver call us at 360- 695-6500 and Portland at 503-972-2434.
