Fall weather gives your HVAC system a break from summer cooling and winter heating. Use this in-between time for heating and cooling system maintenance to avoid future HVAC repairs and related expenses. The right maintenance will give you peace of mind, preventing mid-winter breakdowns, so here are four helpful tips.

Do:

Check the Filters & Vents

Check your heating and cooling system air filter—wash it if it’s reusable, or replace it if it’s disposable and dark with debris. Inspect the filter about once a month during the winter, especially if you have pets, to prevent clogs that reduce efficiency and promote premature wear. An HVAC system has to work much harder when its filter is dirty because airflow gets restricted.

Clean vents and registers to keep them free of dust and debris for good indoor air quality. Also, remove rugs or other items blocking the registers and hindering airflow.

Clean the Outdoor Unit

Remove leaves, excessive pollen, twigs, and other debris that can easily cause clogs and become fire hazards. Check and clean the unit every week during fall to help it run efficiently in winter.

Don’t:

Leave Combustible or Flammable Products Near the System

Keep all flammable and combustible objects away from heat sources to reduce your fire risk this winter. Such objects also reduce heating and cooling system efficiency because they block vents and registers. Turn the system off any time you smell gas and install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors if you haven’t already. 

Skip Professional Inspection Services

Schedule a professional heating and cooling system inspection before winter. HVAC contractors clean heating systems, including the condensate lines, drain pans, and condenser coils. They also check refrigerant levels and tighten loose connections. Heating contractors can provide energy efficiency tips such as sealing air leaks around your home with caulk and weatherstripping materials. 

Maintain your HVAC system this fall and winter with services from Lenox Heating & Cooling. Serving Chillicothe, OH, and Ross County for over 20 years, this experienced company is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau®. This heating and cooling business also services water heaters and provides geothermal heat installations. Call (740) 702-2665 today to make an appointment, or visit the heating contractors online to sign up for the preventative maintenance agreement.