Everything changes in the Fall. The leaves change. The holidays approach rapidly. And the temperature drops.
These changes require switching the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system from COOL to HEAT and homeowners should make a few preparations to ensure the system is equipped for the winter weather to come.
Cleaning Tasks
Clean the condenser unit. Before the temperature drops too low, use a garden hose and clean the grass clippings and dust from the outdoor condenser coils. The condenser appears solid, but it is actually a network of tubes, with very thin fins. The network is designed to dissipate heat, but the gunk that collects on it hinders the transfer of heat. Cleaning the coils enhances the HVAC function for air conditioning and, for heat pumps, it also enhances the heating function.
Clean vents and registers. Warm (and cool) air is distributed throughout the home via ducts and the supply openings into the home space are called vents and the air returning to the HVAC system is called registered. Make sure that the openings remain uncovered and dust-free.
Change the air filter. Dust, pollen, dander, and other airborne particles collect on the air filter with every cycle. When sufficient dust accumulates on the filter, it clogs and restricts airflow. Make sure to change the filter at least every three months.
AC Maintenance CheckPoints
Change the thermostat batteries. The thermostat is the ON/OFF switch for the entire system, and it is powered by simple AA or AAA batteries. Should these batteries fail during a cold, winter night, the system shuts down. Change the batteries annually to make sure this does not happen.
Check ductwork. Most ducts are enclosed in the walls, in crawl spaces, or in the attic. Do an annual inspection of any portion of the ductwork that is visible, looking for gaps or leaks. Leaks seriously affect the efficiency of both heating and cooling functions.
Discover insulation gaps. The building envelope provides a moisture and thermal barrier above, around, and under the entire house. Use additional insulation, caulk, and weatherstripping to plug the gaps. The plugs will enhance the efficiency of the HVAC system.
Check the heat.
Get Professional Help
Schedule a preventative maintenance inspection. The HVAC system is a mechanical system that needs regular maintenance by a professional technician. Manufacturers and the US Department of Energy recommend annual maintenance. AC Maintenance tasks include checking electrical components, refrigerant pressure, motor function, natural gas combustion, and the exhaust pathway. Homeowners cannot care for this complex system without proper tools and training.
Examine the ducts. Dust will also collect inside both the supply and return ductwork; while it remains in the ducts, it can recirculate with every heating and cooling cycle. Ducts should be cleaned every 3 to 5 years. How long has it been since yours were cleaned?
Consider an energy audit. An energy audit uses specially designed instruments, utility bills, and an examination of the building envelope to determine the source of energy loss and inefficiency. A completed audit comes with recommendations for repairs and changes that will reduce energy costs and improve comfort year-round.
For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our furnace maintenance services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC maintenance information page.