Preparing for the fall goes further than stocking up on warm socks and pumpkin-flavored treats. The users need to make sure the HVAC system is functioning correctly. Otherwise, they’re likely to face some long cold days and even longer nights.
Don’t worry, though; DM is going to cover the top ten fall HVAC tips to make sure users are more than ready!
Monthly heating bills
Replace the Filters - Just like with any other season, fall HVAC maintenance begins with checking the filters. Even if users have been doing an excellent job keeping up with them, now is the perfect time to install fresh filters.
They should be monitoring the filters monthly, and if they have to replace them each time
If they are replacing the old one, it is also optimal to consider upgrading to a reusable filter. They should be monitoring the filters monthly, and if they have to replace them each time, it can be adding up to a considerable expense. Sure, it’s only a few dollars, but it’s still money users can be saving and put toward their monthly heating bills.
Crucial clean filters
Clean vents and registers - Registers that can breathe freely are as crucial as clean filters. While the user is cleaning the house, take the time to make sure no registers are blocked with dust and dirt. Cleaning is as simple as removing the register to ensure the front and back are clear of debris.
When the registers are removed, take the time to make sure the ducts are clean as well. Be sure to take a look to ensure no mold is present either. If it is, users can use bleach and water solution to deal with it them. Users can also call a professional to remove it if they feel that help is necessary. Make sure the HVAC system is functioning correctly.
Giving proper cleaning
If users do have a programmable thermostat, take a few minutes to reprogram the settings
Reprogram the thermostat - If users don’t already have a programmable thermostat, now’s the time to make an upgrade. These devices allow them to keep the heat off while they’re at work, and it can be set to turn it on just before they get home. Doing so can significantly reduce energy bills. If users do have a programmable thermostat, take a few minutes to reprogram the settings. Otherwise, they’re going to walk into a cool surprise.
Clean the Drains -Throughout the HVAC system, many condensate drains are present. This is a good time to make sure there are no clogs and give them a proper cleaning. This is true even for the condensate drain located below the evaporator coils. Although users won’t be putting the AC system to use, it’s still a good idea to stop mildew in its tracks. Also, consider that they’ll have to do it again next spring, and cleaning it now will reduce how much work they need to do then.
Helping increase efficiency
Insulate the ducts - An excellent way to get the most out of the heating system is to insulate the ducts. Heat transfer is a major issue as cold ducts will absorb heat as they pass through many rooms in the home. Insulation will make sure that more heat will pass through the registers and into the desired rooms. Furthermore, this will also help with cooling when the time comes to turn the AC back on.
In addition to insulating the ducts, users should be inspecting their condition
Inspect/repair the ducts - In addition to insulating the ducts, users should be inspecting their condition. Small leaks will be sealed with insulation, which helps increase efficiency. But in many cases, the leaks can be on account of faulty or deteriorated ducts. Major leaks are only going to waste energy and should be replaced.
Creating opposite effect
Insulate the attic - Hot air rises, and an uninsulated attic is a surefire way to rob the HVAC system of its performance. The attic may already be insulated, but users should still be mindful of the condition. Insulation can begin to fall from fiberglass batts after 10-15 years. If the insulation uses fiberglass batts and it’s been more than a decade since it’s been installed, the user should consider inspecting and replacing it if necessary.
Switch the fan’s direction - If the home has ceiling fans, remember to switch the direction of operation. During the spring, the fans are set to run counter-clockwise to pull warm air up toward the ceiling. During the winter, users should set the fan to run clockwise to create the opposite effect. This simple step can make a big difference in how the home feels during the cold season.
Professional furnace inspection
A major cause of high energy bills is using dated HVAC equipment to heat and cool the home
Schedule a tune-up/inspection - While there are many things on this list that will help users get the most out of the system, a professional’s hands may be able to take things further. A professional inspection and furnace tune-up will help ensure every part of the system is up to par and ready to take on the long cold Virginian winter.
Update the HVAC system - A major cause of high energy bills is using dated HVAC equipment to heat and cool the home. Also, consider that it takes about three times more energy to heat a house than it does to cool it. That means an old system isn’t doing any favors in the cold season.
Saving on energy bills
If the system is about 15-20 years old, the user might want to consider making the update before it can dip further into the savings during the cooler months of the year. Yes, it is a big expense out of pocket, but the amount of money users will save on energy bills will more than compensate for it.
As users can tell, fall maintenance is very similar to preparation for any season except for some unique practices. As always, DM encourages users to tackle what they can and learn as much about the home system as possible. However, never go beyond the skill level. There’s no shame in calling for professional help to prevent the risk of damaging the equipment or causing self-harm.
