As the sweltering Decatur, Alabama summer begins to fade and the cooler fall weather approaches, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your HVAC system for the change in seasons. At Southeastern Mechanical Services, we know that a well-maintained system is key to comfort and efficiency year-round. Here are some essential steps to get your HVAC system ready for fall:
- Schedule a Professional Tune-up. Fall is the perfect time for a comprehensive check-up of your system. During this service, a qualified technician will:
- Clean and inspect your furnace
- Check for any worn or damaged parts
- Ensure your system is running at peak efficiency
- Address any potential issues before they become major problems
- Replace Your Air Filter. After a long summer of constant use, your air filter is likely due for a change. A clean filter will:
- Improve air quality in your home
- Help your system run more efficiently
- Potentially lower your energy bills
- Test Your Heating System. Don’t wait until the first cold snap to turn on your heat. Test it now by:
- Setting your thermostat to “heat” mode
- Raising the temperature a few degrees
- Listening for any unusual noises
- Checking that warm air is coming from all vents
- Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit. As leaves start to fall, they can accumulate around your outdoor AC unit. Take time to:
- Clear away leaves, twigs, and other debris
- Trim back any plants growing too close to the unit
- Consider covering the top of the unit to prevent leaves and debris from falling in
- Seal Any Air Leaks. Fall is a great time to check for and seal any air leaks around your home. Look for gaps:
- Around windows and doors
- Where pipes or wires enter your home
- In your attic or basement
- Check and Clean Your Vents. Ensure all your vents are open and unobstructed. Take time to:
- Vacuum out any dust or debris
- Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking airflow
- Consider having your ducts professionally cleaned if it’s been several years
- Install a Programmable Thermostat. If you haven’t already, fall is a great time to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat. These can help:
- Reduce energy usage when you’re asleep or away
- Maintain a comfortable temperature automatically
- Potentially lower your heating bills
- Consider Humidifier Options. As the air gets drier in fall and winter, you might want to think about adding a humidifier to your HVAC system. Proper humidity can:
- Improve comfort levels
- Reduce static electricity
- Help prevent dry skin and nasal passages
- Review Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors. With your heating system coming back online, it’s crucial to ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Be sure to:
- Test all detectors
- Replace batteries if needed
- Install detectors on every level of your home if you haven’t already
By taking these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for the cooler months ahead. Remember, while many of these tasks can be done yourself, others require the expertise of a professional. At Southeastern Mechanical Services, we’re always here to help ensure your HVAC system is ready to keep you comfortable throughout the fall and winter seasons in Decatur, AL and beyond.
Don’t wait until the temperatures drop to get your system ready. Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home will stay cozy all season long!
