Pilchuck Heating
Posted on August 8, 2022

Jump Start Fall HVAC Maintenance

Jump Start Fall HVAC Maintenance – With the fall season just around the corner, here are some tips to jump start your HVAC maintenance.

Jump Start Fall HVAC Maintenance

Replace the furnace filtersJump Start Fall HVAC Maintenance

Most furnace filters need to be replaced every 3-4 months. If they have not been changed recently, the dust accumulation will block air flow and decrease the system’s capability to heat and cool. This causes the furnace to work harder and increases energy usage. Transitioning from the summer months to fall is the perfect time to replace your furnace filter, as you also shift your HVAC system from “cool” to “heat”.

Clean around furnace, heat pump, ducts & returns

Take time to vacuum and wipe down the furnace area to keep it free of dust buildup. Make sure nothing is stacked around its perimeter, especially combustibles such as gas, paint or paint thinners.

Clear any debris or overgrown grass and weeds so the outdoor heat pump has clear airways. Trim back nearby trees or shrubs to prevent damage from falling limbs.

Vacuum dust out of air ducts, vents and air returns. Make sure vents are open to allow heat into all areas of the house.

Check your thermostat/Install programmable thermostat

Review the thermostat programming and determine if the times and temperatures set are still your preferences. If you haven’t done it yet, switch your system from “cool” to “heat”.

If you are still using a basic thermostat without programmable capabilities, this is a great time to invest in a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostat prices begin at just $25 and increase to $100, dependent on brand and style.

By adjusting the times your home is heated or cooled based on when you are away from home and your return time, you can save as much as 10% a year on energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment

Experts recommend booking a maintenance appointment annually. Having regular HVAC maintenance has been proven to extend the life of the system through preventative maintenance.

At the appointment, a professional technician will come out and check gas, propane or electrical connections, ensure there are no frayed wires or other safety concerns, test the thermostat to ensure accurate temperatures, lubricate the moving parts of the system, and identify any noises or smells that could be indicative of a problem.

With time, heating and cooling systems can become a source of indoor air pollution if HVAC units are not maintained well and become extremely dirty or grow mold and mildew on inner working parts. A professional technician will look for signs of these problems, clean the system and recommend additional filter systems, if necessary.

Lastly, having a preventative maintenance appointment will greatly decrease the risk of an unexpected furnace repair over the winter months.

To schedule your heating and cooling maintenance, contact us at Pilchuck Heating.

Contact Form

More Advice for Homeowners