As the temperatures drop and the leaves begin to change, it’s time to shift our focus toward preparing our homes for the fall and winter seasons. Proper HVAC maintenance is essential to ensure your comfort during the colder months while maximizing energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of your system. Below are a few tips for fall and winter HVAC maintenance to help you easily navigate the seasonal transition.
Clear the Path for Efficient Airflow
The air filters in your HVAC system play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. Over time, these filters can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris, restricting airflow and forcing your system to work harder.
As we head into fall, take a moment to inspect your filters. If they’re visibly dirty, it’s time for a replacement. Even if they appear clean, changing them every one to three months is a good practice, depending on your filter type. Doing this ensures optimal air quality and allows your system to operate efficiently, which can lead to energy savings.
Seal and Insulate for Energy Efficiency
One of the most effective ways to maintain a comfortable indoor environment during fall and winter is by ensuring your home is well-insulated and sealed. Check for gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and areas where pipes or wires enter your home.
Proper insulation prevents heat loss, reducing the workload on your HVAC system. Our team recommends using weather stripping and caulk to seal any openings.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Before temperatures plummet, scheduling a professional HVAC inspection is wise. Our experts at Smedley Service can identify potential issues that may worsen during the colder months. During an inspection, our team checks for leaks, assesses the condition of belts and motors, and verifies the overall functionality of your system.
Protect Your Outdoor Unit
While HVAC units are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, additional protection can go a long way. Consider investing in a cover specifically designed for HVAC units. These covers can prevent snow and ice accumulation on the unit’s components. Since proper airflow is essential year-round, ensure the cover is well-ventilated and doesn’t completely seal off the outdoor unit.
Calibrate Your Thermostat
Your thermostat serves as the control center for your HVAC system. If you have a programmable thermostat, adjust the settings to align with your fall and winter schedule. Lower the temperature when you’re not at home or sleeping, and program it to warm up your space before you wake up or return home. This strategy reduces energy consumption while ensuring your comfort.
Consider a Humidifier
Utah’s winters are notoriously dry, leading to itchy skin, scratchy throats, aggravated allergies, and other discomforts. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, creating a more comfortable indoor environment. They can also help you feel warmer at lower temperatures, allowing you to save on heating costs. Whether you opt for a whole-house humidifier or portable units, maintaining an optimal indoor humidity level of around 30-50% can enhance your comfort.
Radiator and Baseboard Heater Maintenance
For homes with radiators or baseboard heaters, fall is the ideal time to show these heat emitters some attention. “Bleed” your radiator to release trapped air, ensuring efficient heat distribution. To do this, turn off the heat, locate the radiator’s valve, and use a radiator key to open it slightly until you hear a hiss. Once the water starts flowing steadily, close the valve. On the other hand, baseboard heaters need their fins cleaned of dust and debris. Gently vacuum or wipe them down to guarantee maximum heat output.
Contact Us Today!
As the crisp air of fall descends and winter’s chill approaches, proactive HVAC maintenance is your key to a cozy home. At Smedley Service, we understand the unique HVAC needs of Layton, Utah residents, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Our commitment to your home’s well-being extends beyond HVAC maintenance. We are your all-inclusive solution for a range of home services, including comprehensive HVAC installation and repairs, plumbing services, and indoor air quality solutions. Contact Smedley Service today and experience a Layton, Utah home services partner that goes beyond the basics to help you achieve a comfortable, efficient, and worry-free home!
