The End-of-Summer HVAC Checklist: Prepping Your Home for Fall
As summer comes to a close, it’s a good time to make sure your HVAC system is ready for the change in seasons. Transitioning from cooling to heating puts new demands on your equipment, and a little preparation now can help prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and keep energy costs under control.
Here’s your end-of-summer HVAC checklist:
1. Give Your AC a Post-Summer Check
Your air conditioner has been working hard all summer long. Before shutting it down for the season, check for any signs of wear and tear. Listen for unusual noises, look for leaks around the unit, and clear away dirt, leaves, or debris. This helps extend the life of your AC and ensures it will be ready when warm weather returns.
2. Change or Clean Air Filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your system work harder, whether you’re cooling or heating your home. Replacing or cleaning your air filters at the end of summer not only improves efficiency but also keeps indoor air quality fresh as you spend more time inside during fall and winter.
3. Schedule a Heating Tune-Up
Don’t wait until the first chilly night to find out your furnace isn’t working properly. Scheduling a professional tune-up now ensures your heating system is safe, efficient, and ready to handle the cold. During a tune-up, technicians check for potential issues like carbon monoxide leaks, worn parts, or poor airflow you don’t want to deal with mid-season.
4. Check Your Thermostat Settings
As the seasons change, so do your comfort needs. Update your thermostat schedule to reflect cooler nights and mornings. If you don’t already have a programmable or smart thermostat, now might be the perfect time to upgrade, it can save you money by automatically adjusting temperatures when you’re not home.
5. Inspect Ductwork and Vents
Leaks, blockages, or dirty ducts can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs. Walk through your home and make sure vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or rugs. If you’ve noticed uneven temperatures between rooms, a professional duct inspection might be worth considering.