You might still be recovering from your Thanksgiving turkey dinner, but fall is already upon us and it’s time to get your home ready for winter.
While fall brings beautiful scenery and cozy evenings, it also brings the challenge of leaves and the looming threat of snow. Not to worry! We’re providing you with the essential tips you need to keep the leaves away from your HVAC system and ensure it’s ready to face the snow and cold this winter.
Clear leaves and debris
Leaves are a common issue for HVAC systems during the fall. While they may be beautiful, they can accumulate around your outdoor unit and block airflow.
It’s important to keep leaves away from your HVAC system to ensure it continues to operate effectively. Sweep, rake, or blow away leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit. Clear a perimeter of at least two feet to allow for proper airflow.
If you have trees nearby, consider trimming the overhanging branches to prevent leaves from falling directly onto your HVAC unit.
Install a fence or barrier
Creating a barrier around your outdoor HVAC unit can help to prevent leaves and debris from becoming a problem. A low fence can be installed at least two feet away from the unit, so you’ll still have proper airflow but won’t be troubled by leaf accumulation. Cover the area around the unit with gravel or stone for a low-maintenance surface.
Swap out your filter
The changing seasons are an excellent reminder to check and change your HVAC system’s air filter. A clean filter ensures efficient airflow and helps to improve indoor air quality.
During high-usage periods, including the colder winter months, check your air filter monthly and change it if it’s visibly dirty.
Schedule routine maintenance
No one wants to be surprised by a malfunctioning furnace when the temperature drops. Instead, schedule a professional HVAC maintenance visit before winter arrives. This will ensure that your system is in top shape and ready to keep you warm when the colder weather sets in.
A comprehensive maintenance visit typically includes cleaning the unit to remove dust, debris, and any leaves that have made their way into the system. All components are inspected, including the blower, motor, wiring, and thermostat to identify and address any issues.
A preventive check also allows testing of the heating system to ensure it’s working efficiently and safely, so you’ll feel confident that it’s ready to keep your family warm this winter.
Prepare for snow
When fall transitions to winter, you’ll want to be prepared to face the challenges of snow and freezing temperatures. If you anticipate heavy snowfall in your area, consider elevating the outdoor unit on a platform or brackets to prevent the unit from being buried in snow.
After heavy snowfalls, check the outdoor unit regularly to remove any snow or ice that has accumulated around it. Remember to keep vents and exhaust pipes free from snow as well to prevent blockages.
Check for leaks
To ensure that your home stays warm and cozy during the fall and winter, check for air leaks around windows and doors. Leaks cause your HVAC system to work harder and may result in higher energy bills. Simple weather stripping or caulking can be used to seal any gaps or leaks you find.
Program your thermostat
Programming your thermostat for the fall and winter can help optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency and save on energy expenses. Set it to a lower temperature when you’re away or sleeping to reduce heating costs. You can even use a programmable thermostat to create a heating schedule that fits your lifestyle and keeps your home comfortable affordably.
Get ready to embrace fall and winter
By following these simple tips, your HVAC system will be ready to tackle the challenges of fall and winter. Keeping leaves away from your outdoor unit, scheduling professional maintenance, and preparing for the inevitability of snow are essential steps to guarantee a warm and comfortable home during the colder months.
If you have any concerns or need assistance with HVAC maintenance and preparations, reach out to us today to keep your system running smoothly throughout the season.
