Your HVAC system needs some TLC throughout the year to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. During the autumn season, you won’t be using the AC as much as you were during the summer months, but it also won’t yet be time to put the heater on full blast. This makes autumn a great time to perform basic HVAC maintenance, ensuring that your home’s heating and cooling system is in good condition for the coming winter months.
Understanding the maintenance tasks that you should complete this fall can help you protect the longevity of your HVAC system. At Comfort Pros, we offer expert inspections and maintenance for your Lakewood HVAC needs.
The key HVAC maintenance tasks that homeowners should add to their to-do lists this autumn include:
Check The Air Filters.
After a hot summer here in Lakewood, you’ll likely need to change the filter of your HVAC system. The air filter catches dust and other impurities in your home’s air so that they don’t circulate throughout your living space. But, if the air filter becomes packed with debris, those impurities will be sent back out into your home. So, it’s important to check and replace your HVAC system’s air filter every one to three months. If you have furry pets, you’ll likely need to change the air filter at least once per month, given that pet dander can accumulate quickly in the filter.
Clean The Outdoor Unit.
Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit can be easy to neglect. After all, it’s outside – out of sight, out of mind. That said, a dirty outdoor unit can compromise the functionality and efficiency of your entire HVAC system. During the autumn season, when pine needles and leaves are falling to the ground, it’s especially important to clean up the outdoor unit.
The quickest and easiest way to get your outdoor unit clean, without causing any accidental damage, is to enlist the help of your Lakewood HVAC experts. Especially if the outdoor unit is severely clogged, professional help will be a worthwhile investment.
Consider The Thermostat.
Is your thermostat in good condition? If it responds quickly and brings your home to the right temperature, it likely doesn’t need any maintenance. However, if your thermostat doesn’t seem to be functioning properly, having it updated will boost the efficiency of your HVAC system by a significant margin. Additionally, if you don’t yet have a programmable or smart thermostat, you should consider investing in one. A thermostat with programming capabilities can save energy (and money) by adjusting its temperature settings automatically according to your needs.
For Old Units, Think About HVAC Replacement.
While a brand-new HVAC system is a significant investment, it will be necessary eventually. If your HVAC system is over 10 to 15 years old, it’s time to start considering the need to replace it. The upfront cost of a new HVAC system can seem steep, but you’ll gain newer, more efficient technology that will save you in energy costs each month. This is especially true given that HVAC systems decline in efficiency from year to year. Plus, a new unit will warm and cool your home better than an older unit, meaning that your family will enjoy greater comfort throughout the year.
If your HVAC system is approaching the end of its lifespan, speak with your Lakewood HVAC experts to learn more about your options. Having the unit replaced may benefit your home more than you realize. Plus, it’s wise to replace the system in the autumn, rather than risking a breakdown in the freezing winter months.
Insulate The Attic.
If your attic isn’t already properly insulated, having insulation installed this fall will make a big difference in your heating costs this winter. Insulation significantly boosts the efficiency of an HVAC system by keeping the heated air from escaping through the roof. This will not only make your home more environmentally-friendly but also lower your energy bills this winter.
For all of your Lakewood HVAC needs this autumn, reach out to the experienced team at Comfort Pros.
