As the temperatures begin to dip and the crisp fall air rolls in, now’s the perfect time to prepare your heating and cooling system for the months ahead. Professional HVAC maintenance in Hammond, LA is the best way to ensure your system runs smoothly through the winter, but there are also several easy tasks homeowners can do on their own to keep things efficient, clean, and dependable. Here’s a handy checklist to help you get your HVAC system ready for the season.
1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
This is one of the simplest and most important HVAC maintenance tasks you can do. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. Check your filter monthly and replace it every one to three months, depending on how quickly it gets dirty. If you have a reusable filter, give it a good cleaning before reinstalling it. A clean filter not only improves efficiency but also boosts indoor air quality—something especially valuable as you start spending more time indoors.
2. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit
Over the summer, leaves, branches, and debris can collect around your outdoor condenser unit. Clear at least two feet of space on all sides to ensure proper airflow. Trim back any shrubs or plants that have grown too close, and sweep away dirt or grass clippings from the base. This helps prevent blockages and allows your HVAC system to breathe freely.
3. Inspect and Clean Vents and Registers
Walk through your home and check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are blocking vents or registers. Obstructed airflow makes it harder for your system to heat or cool your home evenly. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean dust and pet hair from vents. For a deeper clean, you can remove the covers and gently wipe the interior edges with a damp cloth.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Before the cold weather hits, switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode and set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. Listen for the system to kick on and ensure warm air starts coming through the vents. If your thermostat is programmable, update the schedule for fall and winter. Setting it to lower the temperature while you’re asleep or away can help save on energy bills.
5. Check and Seal Air Leaks
Drafty windows and doors make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to. Walk around your home and feel for cool air seeping in. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, and consider adding insulation to problem areas. Not only will this help your HVAC system maintain comfortable temperatures, but it’ll also save money on heating costs.
6. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even the most capable DIY homeowner can benefit from professional service. A fall tune-up from our expert licensed HVAC technicians ensures your system’s components—like belts, burners, and electrical connections—are inspected, cleaned, and adjusted for maximum efficiency and safety. It’s the best way to catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. And for consistent maintenance with many other benefits like repair discounts and priority scheduling, join our maintenance club!
By following this fall HVAC checklist, you can keep your home cozy, efficient, and worry-free all season long. A little preparation now means fewer headaches—and lower energy bills—when the cold sets in.
When you need it done right, contact Professional Heating & Air.