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As the heat of summer has morphed into the cooler temperatures of fall, homeowners are beginning to adjust their thermostats for the new season. With this transition comes the need for furnace maintenance. This will extend the life of your unit and prevent unnecessary repairs in winter when you need it working the most.  

How to Maintain Your Heating System This Fall

1. Test Your Furnace Before You Need It

Turn on your heat before winter arrives to check for problems. The thermostat should function as expected and there should be no banging or unusual sounds coming from the unit. A slight burning odor is typical within the first few minutes, but it should not continue for an extended period. If it does, have the problem investigated by a professional.

2. Change or Clean the Filters

furnaceYour HVAC relies on clean filters to efficiently cool and heat your home. Dirty filters can reduce airflow and cause the motor on your unit’s air handler to overheat and burn out. It can also create a buildup of dust and bacteria inside your ductwork. Therefore, switch yours out every three months—more often, if you have pets that could be filling the air with their fur or if a member of your household is a smoker.

3. Clean Your Air Vents

Allergens and dust tend to gather around vents during the spring and summer, causing openings to become clogged with debris and reducing indoor air quality. Wipe any air vents inside your home with a wet cloth to remove this buildup.

4. Inspect Your Unit for Visible Problems

Perform a visual inspection to spot problems such as burnt wires, coolant leaks, and damaged ductwork. Look for stains around your indoor equipment, listen for escaping airflow, and turn the unit off if you smell burning wires. 

5. Schedule a Professional Inspection

An experienced technician can recognize problems you might miss. By scheduling a professional inspection and cleaning, you will improve the efficiency of your system to lessen the chances of a breakdown. You should also experience lower utility bills as a result.

 

Independence Mechanical has been helping the residents of Kenton County, KY, and Cincinnati, OH, with their AC and heating needs for more than 50 years. Family-owned and -operated, this HVAC company offers free estimates and emergency services 24 hours a day. Visit them online to learn more about their services. Call (859) 353-0410 to schedule your fall maintenance visit today.

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