Different seasons have varying environmental effects in your area, affecting your HVAC system performance. As fall arrives, it’s best to prepare your HVAC system against possible issues and keep it running in optimal condition.
In this post, AC troubleshooting system expert Air Products & Services discusses how to prepare your HVAC system for the fall season.
In most regions in the U.S., fall is a season that brings a relatively cool climate that remains consistent for a few months. The weather is pleasantly cool during the day and becomes colder during the evening. However, this season’s a challenge for your HVAC system because of threats brought by environmental changes. Falling leaves and twigs may seem harmless, but they can get stuck inside your HVAC components and wreak havoc on your heating.
Aside from the debris that can clog your external unit’s intake, the rotting organic materials also pose a threat to your health. Different allergens and contaminants can enter your HVAC system and be circulated into your home. This can pose a serious threat to occupants with allergies. Ragweed, a common source of allergies during fall, tends to release a lot of pollen from August to November. Pollen concentrations typically peak during September on both the East and West Coasts.
Change Your Air Filters
Before fall comes in full swing, you should replace your air filters to protect yourself and ensure better performance from your HVAC system. Air filters are best replaced every three months or more frequently, depending on your environment. Pollutants can accumulate in your HVAC units and hinder proper airflow in the system, reducing the amount of air that circulates throughout your indoor spaces. When this happens, your HVAC system will strain itself to push out air, increasing the energy it uses.
Replacing your air filters is not that difficult. These components are designed to make it easy for people to change them out. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace them:
If you don’t have the time for it or are not confident fiddling with your HVAC system, then it’s always a good call to hire an AC repair company to change the filters for you.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Adjusting your thermostat accordingly can save you energy while keeping your indoors at a comfortable temperature. When daily temperatures go below 85 degrees, you can turn your air conditioner off and enjoy savings in your monthly bills. If it gets chilly overnight or in the mornings, you can switch on the heat setting in your thermostat.
If your thermostat has problems retaining your preferred settings, then you should call your trusted technician. Ask them to look at your device or install a smart thermostat during your next air conditioning replacement.
Empty Your Condensate Pan
While emptying your condensate pan may seem like a trivial matter, it is important to do this task during fall so that biofilms won’t grow in your HVAC system. Biofilms are slime sheets filled with microorganisms that can disperse allergens and airborne pollutants through your HVAC system. They form when moist areas are exposed to air filled with all kinds of particles, which are usually abundant during fall.
Test Both Heating and Cooling Modes
Though this season has more consistent temperatures, there are some days when the weather can change drastically, causing fluctuations that can affect your indoor comfort. To prevent any heating or cooling issues during fall, test out both heating and cooling modes to see if your system can adequately reach the temperatures you’ve set. If your HVAC system has trouble cooling or heating your home, have an air conditioning replacement expert identify the source of the problem.
Check for Leaks and Other Issues
Monitor your HVAC’s daily performance and note possible issues. Is your AC not cooling your room as it used to? You may have refrigerant leaks or problems with the condenser or pump. Do you smell something burning from inside your unit? Then, something must have gone wrong with the electrical system. Is your unit leaking water? Then, the condensate pan might be overflowing, or there could be issues with your drain line.
It’s crucial to act fast and immediately address any leaks or issues in your HVAC system. Delaying repairs will cost you money in the long run, and in some cases, it could also lead to electrical or health hazards. Keep your home safe by working with reputable technicians in your area.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection
The best way to prepare your HVAC system for fall is to have it regularly inspected and tuned up by skilled technicians. Many issues can be addressed before they become costly problems through routine maintenance and care. Regular duct cleaning services and preventive maintenance also extended the life expectancy of your system.
Ideally, HVAC units should be inspected once a year to keep the system working optimally. To make sure you won’t forget, sign an HVAC maintenance service agreement with a trusted contractor. A maintenance agreement will help you keep everything in order. It also comes with other benefits such as being prioritized over other clients or during emergencies.
Are you looking for a reputable HVAC company to handle your heating and cooling needs? Air Products & Services is a local company providing high-quality HVAC services since 1979. Our dedicated crew provides our clients with reliable services, including HVAC installation, repair, replacement, and preventive maintenance services.
To request an HVAC consultation, fill out our contact form or call us at (818) 989-2030. We serve clients in Tarzana, CA, and other nearby areas.