5 Tips to Prepare Your HVAC System for Fall Weather
As the leaves start to change in Ohio and that crisp fall breeze rolls in, it’s the perfect time to give your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system some love.
A little prep now can save you from chilly nights and sky-high energy bills later. If you want to keep your Ohio home cozy throughout the colder months, Carrier Ohio has five easy tips to help prepare your HVAC system for fall.
1. Swap Out Those Air Filters
Let’s start with something simple: changing your air filters. Your air filters are like the lungs of your HVAC system, and they can get gunked up with dust, dirt, and other contaminants over time.
When they’re clogged, your system has to work overtime to keep your home warm, which can spike your energy bills and wear out your system faster. Before the cold season begins in Ohio, replace your filters and help your system run smoother.
2. Schedule a Fall Tune-Up
Fall is a great time to call in the pros for a quick HVAC tune-up. A Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer can inspect your system and check everything from the furnace to the thermostat, preparing your equipment for the colder weather.
Your technician will clean, lubricate, and fine-tune all the moving parts to ensure your system is in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance can add years to your HVAC system’s life and prevent expensive emergency repairs when it’s freezing outside.
3. It’s All About the Airflow
Autumn weather means falling leaves, which can pile up around the outdoor condenser unit and affect the airflow. That can lead to overheating and other issues. Turn off the power, grab some gloves, and clear out any leaves, sticks, or dirt trapped inside the unit. Give the unit a gentle rinse with a hose to clean off the grime, and be sure there’s about two feet of clearance around it.
4. Seal Up Drafts
Air leaks are like little escape routes for your warm air. They can make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to.
Before the temperatures drop, take a walk around your Ohio house and check for any drafts, especially around doors and windows. A little weatherstripping or caulk can go a long way in sealing up those leaks.
A Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer can inspect your ductwork and patch any leaks they find. Sealing your air leaks will improve your HVAC’s efficiency, enhance indoor air quality, and keep you cozy and warm.
5. Give the Thermostat a Test Run
Your thermostat is the quarterback of your HVAC system, so be sure it’s ready to roll before fall begins in Ohio. Switch it to heating mode and bump up the temperature to see if the furnace kicks on.
If it’s sluggish or doesn’t respond, it might be time for a new thermostat or a calibration. Also, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you want to set schedules or adjust the temperature from your phone.
We’re Happy to Help
Getting your HVAC system ready for fall doesn’t have to be a hassle. Carrier Ohio can quickly connect you to a nearby Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer to help prepare your home for the colder weather in Central Ohio. We make it easy to Find A Dealer near you.