As the weather changes, it’s crucial to prepare your HVAC system for fall so that you can stay warm and comfortable in your McMinnville, OR, home. If you take the time to prepare your system for the fall, it will run more efficiently during the winter, saving you money and last longer.
Air Filters: Clean or Replace for Optimal Performance
As fall approaches, checking and cleaning or replacing the filters is a must. When clogged filters restrict airflow, your unit’s efficiency falls, and your energy costs rise. A clean or replacement air filter, normally changed every one to three months, improves air quality, keeps the system running smoothly, and helps avoid problems. For people who suffer from asthma or allergies, high-efficiency filters are a great option because they trap so much more dust and allergens.
Thermostat Check: Settings for Cozy Autumn Comfort
Verify that the thermostat is in “heat” mode and operating correctly. You might need to recalibrate it for accurate temperature readings and maximum comfort. We can install a programmable or smart thermostat for enhanced convenience and reduced energy consumption. By programming the thermostat to turn down when you leave and back up when you return, you can conserve energy without sacrificing comfort.
Seal and Insulate Ductwork To Maximize Efficiency
Look for holes or damage in your ductwork, and if you find any, plug them with duct tape or mastic sealant. Insufficient insulation and air leakage in the ductwork can significantly reduce the furnace’s efficiency. To help keep the air temperature constant as it flows through the equipment, it’s important to insulate the area surrounding the ducts. This is especially key in unconditioned areas such as basements or attics.
Outdoor Units: Clear Debris for Smooth Operation
The outdoor condenser unit, a critical component of your HVAC system, loses some of its performance when things like branches and other obstacles get in the way. Clear the area around the condenser to prevent overheating and ensure proper ventilation. Debris, such as leaves and twigs, can gather around the unit throughout the fall, obstructing airflow and decreasing capacity. Regularly check the device for damage or wear, and rinse the fins with a garden hose to remove debris. Consider putting a weatherproof cover on the unit to keep it safe from the cold winter weather, but make sure it lets air circulate.
Ensure Safety: Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The colorless and odorless gas known as carbon monoxide can cause serious harm. Before turning on the heat, check that your carbon monoxide detectors are working well. You can ensure they have fresh batteries and send them through their “test” mode. To ensure the best protection, you should install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home and near any rooms where you sleep.
Book a Fall HVAC Tune-Up With a Pro
It’s a good idea to have a trained technician do a maintenance check to catch problems in their early stages. As part of an HVAC tune-up, one of our technicians will check and clean the ductwork, furnace, and filters. In addition to making sure the system is running efficiently, they’ll inspect it for signs of wear and tear and make any required repairs.
Optimize Home Comfort: Adjust Humidity Levels
As temperatures decrease, the air inside your house can become dry, leading to discomfort and even health problems. A humidifier is a great investment to avoid dry skin and static electricity and keep the relative humidity in the air at an ideal level. On the other hand, a dehumidifier can be useful in controlling indoor moisture levels and warding off problems like mold growth when the humidity is too high.
Clean and Inspect Vents for Healthy Airflow
Proper ventilation and efficient heating require clean and unobstructed vents. The accumulation of dust, grime, and other materials in vents will limit airflow, which can cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary and result in uneven temperatures. To clean the vents, use a vacuum cleaner and a gentle brush to pick up dust and debris. You must also ensure no furniture or other items are blocking the vents.
Upgrade Your Insulation for Better Energy Efficiency
If you insulate the walls, floors, and ceilings, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems will consume less energy. Fall is an excellent time to check the insulation in your house, especially in the attic and any crawl spaces. Whether upgraded or added, insulation can help keep heat in and reduce energy waste.
Verify Flue and Venting Systems
Make sure there are no obstructions in the venting systems and flues of your heating appliances. Proper venting is crucial for safely releasing combustion gases and keeping the system running efficiently. If a vent or flue has an obstruction, it can lead to dangerous backdrafts, an increased risk of carbon monoxide buildup, and decreased heating performance. Some of the most common obstructions include leaves and nests.
Inspect and Clean the Heat Exchanger
A furnace’s heat exchanger is an important component for both heating efficiency and safety. However, heat exchangers are vulnerable to carbon monoxide leakage and decreased heating effectiveness due to dirtiness or corrosion. To ensure their safety, you’ll need to make an appointment with an expert to check and clean them.
Be Prepared: Plan for Heating Emergencies
Heating crises can happen regardless of how well you prepare. It is extremely important to have a strategy to swiftly handle possible problems. Get to know the primary shut-off button for your HVAC system, and be sure to keep emergency contact information for HVAC technicians on hand. To stay warm in the event of an unanticipated power outage, you should pack an emergency kit with necessities like a flashlight, batteries, and blankets.
Fall Preparation for Ductless HVAC Units
Like regular ducted units, ductless HVAC systems require fall preparation, too. To keep the airflow and air quality efficient, you should clean or replace the interior unit’s air filters once every one to two months. Check the outdoor condenser unit for any obstructions and remove any dirt, branches, or leaves blocking airflow. Look at the insulation and wear and tear on the refrigerant lines. If you see any indications of damage, have a professional look. You might need to replace the lines altogether.
Test All Heating Zones in a Ductless System
Check each zone separately to ensure the temperature reaches your desired level. Once you’ve set the thermostat to your preferred temperature, look for obstructions in airflow and ensure the air handler units are running smoothly. If there are noticeable differences in the heating effectiveness of different zones, it could be a sign of problems like uneven air distribution or a faulty device.
Home Comfort Inc. is here to help you prepare your HVAC unit for the fall. We also offer AC maintenance and indoor air quality solutions for residential and commercial properties. Call us today to schedule furnace maintenance in McMinnville.
