4 Ways to Prepare Your HVAC Unit for Winter

Easy HVAC Maintenance Ideas for Efficiency in Heating

As summer months slip away, you will soon be ready to exchange the coolness of air conditioning for the comfort of heat. Fall weather brings changes to the temperature, and since you will be busy enjoying the crisp air, tailgating parties, or the changing leaves, you shouldn’t put off your HVAC maintenance. You can always schedule an HVAC contractor in Sonoma and Marin County to check your unit for issues, but there are several steps you can take to prepare for winter use.

1. Invest in Stability

Your unit may have some erratic functioning as it tries to keep up with the fluctuations of fall weather, but you can provide stability to your interior temperature with a programmable thermostat. If you still rely on a manual thermostat, it would be a good time to explore more modern options. Many offer remote access through a mobile device, as well as multiple heating and cooling schedules.
 

2. Clean All Your Components

Your HVAC unit needs to be kept clear of debris, leaves, and overgrown weeds. You can sweep out the area and clear sticks or leaves, but you should always call a professional HVAC contractor to handle the interior of the unit. You can also change out your HVAC air filters on your own. Air filters trap pollens and allergens from being circulated through the air inside the home, and as summer ends, it is an ideal time to change out a dirty filter. Your unit will run more efficiently, lowering your heating bill over the next few months.
 
Air vents and ducts can also experience a buildup of dust and debris. You can manually inspect the vent areas for dust or pieces of trash, but you won’t be able to see all the way through the ductwork. For this, you will need professional help.
 

3. Hire an HVAC Contractor in Sonoma and Marin County

There are several sensitive components to your HVAC unit, such as the fan, the coils, the compressor, and the hoses. Funny noises, such as knocking, squealing, or grinding are not normal and need to be evaluated before using the unit. Prevention is the most cost-effective solution for HVAC troubles, and yearly maintenance by a skilled professional preserves the lifespan of your system.
 

4. Evaluate Your Home’s Inefficiencies

To keep your unit heating efficiently, look around your home for leaks. Air leaks, even though minor, can cost you hundreds of dollars a year in energy loss. Windows and door frames are often the most common areas for leaks, and weather stripping can help remove this concern. If your ductwork has a leak, you may notice this by a certain room having a vastly different temperature than the others. An HVAC contractor can find the leak and recommend a corrective course of action. If the whole unit is old, you should consider an HVAC upgrade to enhance your heating and cooling efficiency.
 
Though you may think you are ready for winter weather, a closer inspection of your HVAC system may show there is work to be done. If you need help assessing your unit’s efficiency or you would like to schedule professional maintenance, contact our team of skilled technicians at 707-228-9921.