Fall is upon us and if you haven’t already, take some time to get your HVAC system ready for the cooler months ahead. Here’s a simple fall HVAC maintenance guide to walk you through the key steps.
- Check and replace the air filters.
With use, the air filter becomes clogged with dust, debris, and other pollutants and needs to be replaced. It’s a good idea to replace the filter at the beginning of each season to improve air quality and to ensure the HVAC system continues to function efficiently. A clogged filter will restrict air flow and make it harder for the unit to heat or cool the home, leading to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on the system.
- Clear away debris from the outdoor unit.
The outdoor unit also needs to be cleaned. Leaves, pollen, sticks, dirt, and other debris can cover the unit and restrict air flow. Wear gloves and use a hose, if necessary, to clean the outdoor unit. This will help maximize airflow to the fan and maintain efficiency. Cleaning the outdoor unit will also extend the unit’s lifespan. Be sure to keep at least two feet of space around the unit.
- Clean the registers.
Over time, dust and debris will cover the registers and restrict airflow. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clear away dust.
- Listen for unusual noise.
If you hear squealing, whistling, knocking, rumbling, banging, popping, rattling, buzzing, booming, or hissing, there could be a variety of underlying causes. In some cases, you may need to tighten loose connections or replace worn out parts. In other instances, you’ll need to call Blue Apple for professional HVAC service.
- Test the thermostat.
Check the thermostat to see if it is functioning properly. The temperature displayed on the thermostat should match indoor temperature. Use a thermometer to check indoor temperature by placing it near the thermostat for a minute. If the temperatures don’t match, we recommend resetting the thermostat.
- Call Blue Apple for a professional inspection and maintenance.
There are some issues that only a professional HVAC technician can handle. If you notice anything unusual while taking care of maintenance, call Blue Apple to schedule professional HVAC service.