As the weather cools and you transition from air conditioning to heating, it’s a great time to prepare your HVAC system for the colder months. Taking a few simple steps can improve efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and help you save money on your energy bills. Having a reliable HVAC company like Comfort Professionals can ease your mind by taking care of your HVAC system and ensuring it is working properly as the weather changes. These are a few things a good HVAC company will do: 

• Change or Clean Your Air Filter: This is one of the most important and easiest tasks you can do. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones to ensure proper air circulation and better indoor air quality.
• Clear the Outdoor Unit: The outdoor condenser unit can accumulate leaves, dirt, and other debris during the fall. Make sure the area around the unit is clear of obstructions. You can gently rinse it with a hose (after turning off the power) to remove any grime and ensure proper airflow.
• Check Vents and Registers: Inspect your home thoroughly to ensure that all air vents and registers are open and not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Blocked vents can lead to uneven heating and strain on your system. Please give them a quick dusting or vacuuming to clear any debris.
• Inspect for Air Leaks: Air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork can cause a significant amount of heat to escape, forcing your system to work harder. Check for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps you find.
• Test Your Thermostat: Before the cold weather hits, switch your thermostat to heating mode and adjust the temperature to ensure your furnace kicks in. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, adjust your settings for the fall to optimize energy use.
• Check Safety Alarms: If you have a gas furnace, fall is the perfect time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are crucial for your family’s safety, especially as you begin to use your heating system.

Professional Tune-Up

While some maintenance tasks may be easy to do, scheduling a professional HVAC tune-up in the fall is highly recommended. A professional technician can perform a thorough inspection and address issues you might not be able to, such as:

• Cleaning and inspecting internal components like the heat exchanger and coils.
• Checking refrigerant levels and electrical connections.
• Lubricating moving parts
• Identifying and fixing ductwork leaks
• Diagnosing potential problems before they lead to a major breakdown.

Fall HVAC Usage Tips

• Adjust Your Thermostat: Use the moderate fall weather to your advantage. Consider setting your thermostat lower than you would in the dead of winter. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a setting of 68°F during the day. You can also lower it when you’re away or at night to save on energy costs.
• Use Natural Heat: On sunny days, open blinds and curtains on south-facing windows to let the sun’s warmth naturally heat your home. Close them at night to retain the heat.
• Gradual Transition: Don’t wait until the first freezing day to turn on your heat. Test your furnace a few times during the fall to ensure it’s working properly. This also helps burn off any dust that has accumulated, which can cause a burning smell the first time you turn it on.

Following the above tips will make your transition from summer to fall to winter easier. Contact Comfort Professionals at (770) 756-5600 or visit our website at  www.comfortprosga.com to log a service call. We will ensure your HVAC system is working properly and that your fall and winter will be comfortable.