It might seem like the weather has just started to cool down. But autumn is officially here, and that means winter is also on its way! You don’t want to be caught unprepared. There are things you should be doing to make sure your HVAC system is ready to make the switch from cooling to heating. Here’s a checklist for you!
1. Address Any Air Conditioner Needs
Now is the time to get something fixed if you’ve been noticing an issue with your AC. Don’t put it off until next spring! A winter spent sitting and gathering dust can cause AC problems to worsen, so get it dealt with right away.
2. Shut Down Your Air Conditioner
It’s not just a matter of turning your thermostat from “cool” to “heat.” The air conditioner itself has an off switch, and you should use it! Making sure the AC is properly shut down decreases the risk of electrical issues occurring over the winter. But how do you do that? There is a simple switch in a weatherproof box outside, near your outdoor unit. Just turn it off! It’s as easy as that.
3. Clean the Condenser
The outdoor unit (the condenser) has been gathering dust, leaves, and all sorts of grime. Get it cleaned up after all its hard work! Use a rake to clear away any mess, and then use a hose—but gently!—to wash the unit down. Give it time to dry before moving on to the next step.
4. Weatherproof Your Air Conditioner
All manner of windblown things, from dirt and grit to storm-thrown branches, could undo the work you’ve just done getting the outdoor unit clean. A weatherproof cover, either one from the hardware store specifically made for the purpose or one you make yourself from heavy plastic sheeting, will keep it clean and protect it from debris.
5. Consider Your Ducts
The ductwork in your home will be responsible for getting your heated air to you all winter long. Is it clean, or might it be full of dust and mold? Is it in good condition, or is your heated air going to leak out into your attic or other places where it won’t do you any good? Duct issues are responsible for a huge amount of unnecessarily high utility bills, so having them inspected this fall could save you a lot of money.
6. Schedule Heating Maintenance
Your heating system is covered in dust from the summer! The lubricant has worn away! Parts could be miscalibrated or misaligned, so that a tiny adjustment now could make a huge difference in avoiding repairs or major system breakdowns over the winter. Don’t just assume your heating system is good to go. Get professional maintenance before you need to turn it on.
We hope this checklist has been helpful, and if you have any other questions about your HVAC system in Shreveport, LA, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Contact us today to discuss repairs or any other HVAC needs.