CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Let the experts prepare your household for the upcoming fall transition from air conditioning to heat.
As the fall season approaches, it’s important to have specialists provide proper maintenance for your HVAC systems. The experts at Dogtown Heating and Air offer tips on how to ensure functioning units for comfort throughout your household. The first step towards preparing for the fall months is to schedule a professional HVAC inspection. An experienced technician can identify potential issues and perform essential maintenance tasks such as cleaning the coils, checking for leaks, and verifying the system’s overall health. Additional tips include:
1. Replace Air Filters
Changing your air filters regularly is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly. During the fall, consider replacing or cleaning your air filters to improve air quality, enhance airflow, and reduce strain on your system.
2. Clean Vents and Registers
Dust and debris can accumulate in your vents and registers over time, hindering your HVAC system’s efficiency. Thoroughly clean all vents and registers to maintain better air circulation and distribution throughout your home.
3. Check Thermostat Settings
Switch from cooling to heating mode and set an optimal temperature that ensures comfort without overworking the system.
4. Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
Inspect the unit, clean around it, and remove any obstructions to ensure its operation. Leave at least two feet of clearance around the unit to prevent potential issues and enhance airflow.
5. Seal Air Leaks
Conduct a thorough inspection of your home for any leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any detected leaks.
6. Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat to add convenience and energy savings. This will allow you to set different temperatures for various times of the day, even when you aren’t home.
7. Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricate parts such as the blower motor, fan blades, and bearings to keep the equipment running smoothly and quietly.
8. Test the Heating System
Conduct a test run of your heating system before the temperatures drop. Turn on your heater and let it run for a few minutes to ensure it’s operational and there are no unusual smells or sounds.
9. Consider a System Upgrade
If your HVAC system is outdated or frequently experiencing issues, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Newer energy-efficient systems can improve comfort and offer cost savings on your energy bills.
10. Review Your Energy Plan
Review your energy plan and consider switching to a more cost-effective option. There can be incentives for energy-efficient HVAC systems.
11. Ensure Proper Insulation
Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to ensure it’s adequate and effective.
Leave the preparation of your HVAC system for the changing seasons for the experts. By following these tips, you can ensure your system operates efficiently, avoiding issues throughout the fall and winter. Regular maintenance helps enhance the performance of your HVAC system and save you money while avoiding future issues.