Fall is the perfect time to inspect your furnace and perform some essential maintenance tasks to prepare it for the dropping temperatures of winter. With seasonal attention, you can increase the efficiency of the HVAC system and prolong its lifespan. Use these tips this fall to protect your home from the coming cold. 

What HVAC Maintenance Steps Should Be Performed in Fall?

1. Clean Around the Outside Unit

The outdoor unit should be cleared of debris like branches, leaves, tools, and covers. Foreign objects like twigs can get into the unit and lodge themselves in fan motors and create fire hazards. Objects that are too close to the appliance can block the exchange of air, straining the system and making it less effective.

2. Check the Thermostat

Adjust the thermostat to accommodate cooler temperatures. The change should be gradual, as waiting until your home is freezing before bumping the thermostat up will put stress on the furnace as it struggles to provide adequate heat. If you have a programmable thermostat, set the thermostat a few degrees lower when you’re sleeping or away from home to save money on energy bills.

3. Eliminate Drafts & Poor Insulation

If your home has drafts or poor insulation, the HVAC system might work harder to keep your property comfortable. This leads to excessive wear on moving parts, causing them to fail prematurely and contributing to a shorter lifespan of the system. Have a professional check the insulation in your attic for signs of damage, and make sure gaps around doors, windows, and plumbing fixtures are sealed to prevent heat transfer.

If you need a reliable heating contractor to prepare your HVAC system for Alaska’s colder months, rely on Muotka Mechanical in Anchorage. For over 23 years, they’ve provided competitive furnace repairs and installations with free estimates and brand-name materials. They manufacture sheet metal on-site to streamline the production process and provide customized HVAC solutions. Learn more about their services online, or call (907) 344-8825 for a quote.