Did you know that home improvement spending has gone up by around 3% in the past year? Before you start plotting a kitchen remodel, make sure you’re taking care of the systems that keep your home humming. And when the seasons start to shift, that means inspecting and maintaining your HVAC system.
Read on to learn how to prepare your HVAC system for the changing seasons!
Change Your HVAC Filter
As you approach changing seasons, make a point of checking your HVAC filter. For example, when summer ends and fall begins, replace your filter. Over time, these filters collect dust that can contaminate the air you breathe.
Dirty filters also reduce the efficiency of your HVAC equipment. You’ll spend more on heating because the airflow won’t be as strong and consistent, causing your furnace to work harder. Aim to replace dirty filters every 3 months on average.
Remove Objects Near Your Furnace
If you’ve started propping sports equipment, spare wood, or other objects against your furnace, remove them. Since furnaces tend to be tucked away, it’s tempting to clutter their space with items you don’t want on display in your home. But too much clutter can prevent your furnace from working properly.
Too much stuff can obstruct airflow in your furnace area. And this means your furnace could be susceptible to mechanical issues from working inefficiently. Be sure to give your furnace a few feet of breathing room as you head into the autumn season.
Check Your Thermostat
Is your thermostat working? If it isn’t, you could accumulate big utility bills if the air conditioning doesn’t turn off in the summer months. Or if it’s not working at all, you’ll be feeling cold when the temperatures drop outside.
An HVAC technician can check your existing thermostat to ensure that it’s the culprit. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat so you can set the temperature to change depending on the time of day. That way, you can save money by nudging the temperature higher in the summer or lower in the winter when you’re not home.
Let the Pros Handle HVAC Maintenance
While you might like to think you’re able to handle HVAC maintenance, sometimes it’s better to let the trained professionals step in. Be sure to get your HVAC equipment inspected at least once each year.
As you head into seasons with cooler weather, a skilled HVAC technician can assess your furnace. For gas furnaces, it’s critical to ensure that there are no leaks that could let carbon monoxide, which is deadly, into your home.
A specialist also can evaluate your air conditioner to make sure it’s running efficiently. Preventative maintenance is always the best choice to increase the lifespan of your equipment!
Get Your HVAC System Ready
Preparing your HVAC system should be an essential step when the seasons change. Start by replacing air filters and checking your thermostat. Then declutter the area around your furnace and schedule an inspection from a qualified technician.
When you need help taking care of your HVAC system, contact us so we can help!
