Fall HVAC Maintenance for Cincinnati Autumns

Unpredictable weather patterns are a staple of Cincinnati. The fall season is no different. Regular maintenance checks help your system perform optimally in different seasons. In order to stay comfortable in the fall, consider fall maintenance on your HVAC system.

Keep an Eye on Thermostat Function

Did you know your thermostat is a good way to test your HVAC system’s function? Next time you’re near it, try adjusting the temperature by a degree or two. If it responds quickly, your thermostat is functioning properly. Since your thermostat is functioning properly, your HVAC system is also likely to function well. However, if your thermostat is slow to respond or isn’t displaying properly, it’s a sign your HVAC system needs fall maintenance or even replacing.

Consider Replacing the HVAC System

Replacing your HVAC system may not fit in your budget. But when it’s necessary, it can save you money in the long run. Energy Star, a program partnered with the US Department of Energy, recommends replacing your HVAC system every eight to 10 years. Of course, that range may be higher or lower depending on usage. But if you notice your HVAC system is lagging, it may be time to consider replacing it. One sure sign it’s time to replace is if your energy bills keep increasing. By replacing the HVAC system, it will be a larger cost upfront, but will decrease your bill over time.

Clean Indoor Registers

Not only do you need to focus on the outside of your home, but you need to focus on the inside as well. If you haven’t cleaned out your heating and air registers in a while, now is the time to do so. Pet dander and dust can build up in your system. If this happens, it can slow down your HVAC system. Also, it can make it hard for heat to enter a room. A slow HVAC system doesn’t keep you comfortable and can be a source of frustration to your family.

Remove Outside Debris

We’ve mentioned you should remove outside debris in the summer. The same logic applies for the fall. While you can’t stop leaves from falling, you can prevent buildup in and around your HVAC system. Be sure to rake leaves and move other debris away from your system. Keep in mind, if debris gets sucked in to your system, it can negatively impact its performance. By scheduling fall maintenance, it’s less likely your HVAC system does something bad to your home.

Change Air Filters

The air filters that move air throughout your home are the same for heating and air conditioning. Even though you won’t be using your air conditioning as much, it’s still imperative to make sure air is moving properly in your home. This is done by replacing your air filters in a timely manner. All air filters have a certain shelf-life associated with them. Usually, they’re good for six months once they’ve been in the HVAC system. If your air filters have been in for more time, it’s time to replace them in your fall maintenance check. Having clean air filters ensures your home will be properly heated for the winter.

Fall is the perfect time for an HVAC system check. After all, it helps to ensure your home will be ready for the cooler temperatures that are right around the corner. If you have any questions, be sure to call Nelson Comfort for all of your heating and cooling needs.

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!