As the intense heat of summer gives way to the first cool breezes of fall, it’s easy to forget about your HVAC system—until you need heat on that first chilly night. But before you switch from cooling to heating, it’s smart to make sure your system is ready for the seasonal change.
A little end-of-summer HVAC maintenance now can prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your home comfortable through the fall and winter months. As your trusted HVAC professionals, we’ve put together this end-of-summer service checklist to help you transition your system smoothly and avoid surprises when the temperature drops.
1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system has likely been working hard all summer, and that means your air filter has been trapping a lot of dust, pollen, and debris. A dirty filter restricts airflow, reduces system efficiency, and can even lead to poor indoor air quality.
What to do: Replace your air filter (or clean it if it’s reusable). Be sure to change it out at the intervals outlined on the filter instructions, usually every one to three months.
2. Clear and Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
Summer storms, grass clippings, and debris can accumulate around your AC’s outdoor condenser unit. As the seasons shift, you’ll want to make sure it’s clean and free of obstructions before putting it into hibernation. What to do:
- Remove leaves, twigs, and dirt from around the unit
- Rinse off the unit gently with a garden hose
- Trim back any bushes or plants at least two feet away
This helps prevent airflow issues and keeps pests from nesting inside during the fall.
3. Test Your Thermostat
Before you switch over to heat, give your thermostat a quick test. Make sure it responds correctly and accurately reflects the room temperature. This is especially important if you use a programmable or smart thermostat.
Pro Tip: Set the thermostat to heating mode and raise the temperature slightly. If your system doesn’t kick on or seems sluggish, you might have a problem worth investigating now, before the cooler weather really hits.
4. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Even if your system appears to be running fine, an end-of-summer tune-up from a licensed HVAC technician can uncover small problems before they become big ones. Plus, routine service helps improve system efficiency, which means lower energy bills and longer equipment life.
During a fall HVAC inspection, we will:
- Check and clean blower components
- Inspect electrical connections
- Test safety and startup controls
- Lubricate moving parts
- Ensure proper airflow and refrigerant levels
- Examine the heat exchanger for signs of wear or cracks
This kind of preventative maintenance can save you time, money, and discomfort once the colder months arrive.
5. Seal Up Drafts and Duct Leaks
Fall is a great time to assess your home’s insulation and ductwork. Leaky ducts or poorly sealed windows and doors make your HVAC system work harder—and that means higher heating bills. We can test your ductwork for leaks and provide sealing solutions that boost your comfort and efficiency all season long.
Natal’s Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. Service Honoring the Golden Rule in North Shore and South Shore communities.