Complete HVAC Service Checklist for Fall 2024

Once the leaves begin to fall and the cooler weather sets in, it provides a good chance to ready your HVAC system to handle the coming winter. Regular fall HVAC maintenance reduces the risk of problems showing up and ensures your home stays safe and warm. Here are a few quick tips to ensure your furnace is in top shape this year.

1. Change the Air Filter on a Regular Basis

All your basic HVAC air filters capture dust, allergens, hair and other large particles, protecting your furnace and AC systems. New filters better preserve indoor air quality by trapping microscopic pollutants. As time passes, the air filter fills with debris, which hinders airflow and can place added strain on your system. To help put a stop to this, swap out the filter regularly throughout the year.

2. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

With the weather cooling off soon, it’s time to switch your thermostat from AC to heat. Making thermostat adjustments for energy efficiency lowers your monthly bill and maintains a complete sense of comfort. Here are several tips:

• Set your thermostat to 70 degrees or less when you’re at home.
• Further lower the temperature to around 62 degrees if you’re out or overnight. A programmable thermostat can manage these day-to-day adjustments for you.
• Try your best to keep from overriding programmed settings. Instead, add an extra layer if you feel chilly.
• Should you still need to adjust the temperature, increase it slowly. Going right to 80 degrees won’t speed up the heating process.

3. Keep Ventilation Clean and Free of Debris

Every now and then, set aside a few minutes to check all the air duct registers around the house. If these registers are clogged with dust, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean everything away. Ensure that no return or supply vents are obscured by furniture, rugs or curtains to ensure proper air circulation.

Shutting off vents in rooms you don’t use might sound like an effective way to save money, but it can also create issues with airflow, putting more stress on your system and—counterproductively—driving utility costs UP. Leave at least 80% of vents open to keep airflow well-balanced.

4. Fix Leaky Air Ducts

Inefficient air ducts waste energy, contributing to higher energy costs. Surprisingly, duct tape is not the best solution for sealing leaks in the air ducts. For a lasting seal, have a professional come by to properly seal your ventilation. The investment will cut energy bills, improve comfort and even increase air quality.

5. Ensure Your Home Is Safe from Heating-Related Fires

Heating equipment is a primary risk factor for home fires. Stick to these tips to minimize the risk as much as possible:

• Make sure flammable items maintain at least a three-foot distance from heat sources, including space heaters, fireplaces, furnaces and water heaters.
• Don’t leave space heaters or other portable systems running if you’re not there.
• Similarly, never use an extension cord with space heaters.
• If you notice strange noises or smells, shut it off and contact a heating Expert.

6. Check the Furnace Flue

A blocked flue pipe can lead to a higher risk of backdrafting, raising the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Before you start your furnace this fall, examine the flue outside to ensure it’s not obstructed by anything. If the flue is clogged, reach out to an HVAC Expert for help.

7. Clear Your Furnace Room

Your furnace should have adequate space to run safely. Avoid storing items within 10 to 15 feet of the unit. If your utility closet or basement is on the smaller side, keep it empty apart from the HVAC equipment. Place flammable materials like paint, cleaning supplies and aerosol sprays separate from your furnace.

8. Check Your Smoke Alarms and CO Detectors

These important safety devices warn you of dangers like a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Conduct monthly tests to verify they’re all working, and replace the batteries annually. Only take out the batteries if you’re planning to replace them immediately.

9. Arrange Professional HVAC Maintenance

While it’s possible to take care of a few fall HVAC maintenance tasks yourself, a certified technician can provide a thorough inspection, clean key components and other system maintenance tasks. Industry experts encourage homeowners to schedule professional AC maintenance every spring and furnace maintenance at the start of fall.

Routine HVAC maintenance keeps energy costs in check and ensures smooth day-to-day operation. The time a technician has during an inspection to identify potential concerns before they cause trouble also minimizes the chances you’d need a costly, last-minute fix.

10. Consider Upgrading the Old HVAC System

If your furnace is more than 10 years old, it may only be 60% as efficient and nearing the end of its life span. Rather than waiting for total system failure, consider replacing it now. A new, high-efficiency furnace is capable of 97% AFUE efficiency, providing improved energy efficiency and peace of mind for years to come.

Get Your HVAC Prepped for Fall and Call McKinley Heating Service Experts today

If you need help completing the items on this fall HVAC maintenance checklist, McKinley Heating Service Experts gets the job done right. We pride ourselves on delivering fast, long-lasting solutions for all your HVAC service concerns. To set up a maintenance call, please contact us today.