Complete HVAC Service Checklist for Fall 2024

As the autumn leaves start to drop and the cooler weather sets in, it’s the perfect time to tune-up your HVAC system for the colder months. Routine fall HVAC maintenance reduces the risk of problems showing up and keeps your home safe and warm. Here are 10 simple steps to ensure your furnace is working well this year.

1. Replace the Air Filter Regularly

Standard HVAC air filters trap dust, allergens, hair and other large particles, forming a layer of protection for your HVAC system. High-efficiency filters better protect indoor air quality by trapping microscopic pollutants. Over time, the air filter becomes clogged, which hinders airflow and forces your furnace to work harder. To avoid this, swap out the filter every one to three months.

2. Adjust Your Thermostat for Winter

With winter approaching, it’s time to switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode. Making thermostat adjustments for energy efficiency limits energy waste and ensures a cozy home. Here are several tips:

• Set your thermostat to 70 degrees or less at home.
• Further lower the temperature to around 62 degrees when you’re away or sleeping. A smart thermostat can automate these changes for you.
• Refrain from overriding these efficiency-minded temperature settings. Instead, grab a blanket or sweater if you are still too cold.
• When it IS necessary to change the temperature, increase it slowly. Going right to 80 degrees won’t speed up the heating process.

3. Keep Ventilation Clean and Free of Debris

Every now and then, set aside some time to take a look at all the air duct openings around the house. For any registers covered in dust, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean everything away. Ensure that no return or supply vents are blocked by furniture, rugs or curtains to keep air flowing evenly.

Shutting off vents in rooms you don’t use might seem like a good idea to reduce costs, but it can also cause uneven air distribution, adding strain on your system and—counterproductively—RAISING your energy costs. Make sure 80% or more of the vent registers are open to keep airflow well-balanced.

4. Fix Leaky Air Ducts

Leaky air ducts let heating and cooling escape, leading to higher energy bills. Regardless of its name, duct tape is not ideal for sealing leaks in the air ducts. For effective sealing, have a professional come by to properly seal your air vents. The experience of a professional will lower your heating expenses, enhance your sense of comfort and even boost indoor air quality.

5. Take Other Steps to Prevent Heating-Related Fires

The gas furnace is a primary risk factor for home fires. Stick to these tips to stay protected:

• Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heat sources, especially space heaters, fireplaces, furnaces and other gas appliances.
• Don’t leave space heaters running without supervision.
• Similarly, never use an extension cord with space heaters.
• Should you notice weird noises or smells from your furnace, shut it off and reach out to your local heating repair technician.

6. Check the Furnace Flue

An obstructed flue pipe can result in harmful backdrafting, raising the risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Before you start your furnace this fall, examine the flue outside to ensure it’s not obstructed by anything. If the flue is being obstructed by debris, reach out to an HVAC Expert for help.

7. Keep the Utility Room Clear

Your furnace requires sufficient empty space surrounding it to run safely. Refrain from keeping any storage closer than 10 to 15 feet of the unit. If your utility closet is too small, do your best to ensure the area is clear apart from the HVAC equipment. Keep items like paint, cleaning supplies and aerosol sprays separate from your furnace.

8. Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These vital safety devices warn you of emergencies like a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Test them on a monthly basis to make sure they work okay, and change the batteries once a year. Only take out the batteries if you’re ready to put new ones in.

9. Keep up with Professional HVAC Inspections

While it’s possible to take care of a few fall HVAC maintenance tasks yourself, a certified technician can provide a thorough inspection, cleaning and other necessary tasks. Industry experts recommend professional AC maintenance every spring and furnace maintenance before winter.

Annual HVAC maintenance means more cost-efficient heating bills and ensures peak system efficiency. The opportunity to identify potential concerns before they wreak havoc also minimizes the chances you’d need a costly, last-minute fix.

10. Think About Upgrading the Old HVAC System

If your furnace is more than 10 years old, it is likely 60% as efficient and approaching the end of its service life. Instead of waiting for total system failure, consider replacing it now. A new, high-efficiency furnace is capable of AFUE ratings as high as 97%, providing energy savings right away and long-term comfort for the winter months ahead.

Make Sure Your Furnace Is Prepped for Fall and Get in Touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today

If you want to check off all the items on this fall HVAC maintenance checklist, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning gets the job done right. We are committed to providing fast, affordable solutions for all your comfort needs. To set up a maintenance call, please contact us today.