4 Steps to Get Your HVAC System Ready for Fall & Winter
Fall is officially among us and it is finally beginning to feel like it outside. No more hot and humid Columbia, South Carolina summer thank goodness. With that being said, we know how soon the frigid nights will be here so there is no better time than now to prepare your HVAC system for the fall and winter weather. Below are a few of our most helpful tips when it comes to gearing up for the cold weather outside.
Adjust Your Thermostat
First things first, make sure you have adjusted your thermostat. If not, now is the time to do so. This is specifically meant for those with smart and programmable thermostats. Your thermostat is most likely still scheduled and programmed to have the air conditioning blasting during the day because you are so used to it being hot outside. Now with the cooler weather during the day and even cooler at night, you will need to adjust this because all day AC is no longer needed.
Change Your Air Filter & Clean Your Vents
Dirty and clogged air filters and vents will restrict the airflow of your HVAC system. This means you will not be receiving optimal comfort even with your HVAC system equipment working efficiently. Make sure you change out your air filters after the summer season when the debris and pollen are excessive. The same goes for your air vents, be sure you clean them out and make sure no furniture, curtains, plants, etc. are blocking them.
Warm Your Heating Unit Up
When it comes to your heating unit, you will want to make sure that it’s working properly before the freezing weather arrives. That means on the cooler nights, be sure to go ahead and turn your furnace or heat pump on a few times before winter fully arrives. This “warms up” your heating unit (no pun intended) to get it ready to work at full capacity come December through March.
Schedule a Tune-Up
When all else fails or you feel that you have a need to call in a professional, make sure you schedule a maintenance appointment with your heating and cooling contractor. This will ensure that a qualified technician is inspecting your system to make sure everything is working as it should before it has to provide you with the heat this fall and winter.