As the leaves change and temperatures begin to cool, your heating equipment will soon take center stage. A little preparation now can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, reduce your energy bills, and keep your home comfortable all season long.
Here is your 10-step fall maintenance checklist to keep your system running at its best this fall.
1. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly
Your HVAC air filter captures dust, pet hair, and other particles before they can enter your system. Over time, the filter becomes clogged, which reduces airflow and forces your furnace to work harder. Replace your filter every one to three months. High-efficiency filters can also improve indoor air quality by trapping smaller particles.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat for the Season
Switch your thermostat from cooling to heating mode and set it for comfort and efficiency:
- Keep it around 70°F or lower when you are home.
- Lower it to about 65°F when you are sleeping or away.
A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures to match your schedule, saving you money without sacrificing comfort.
3. Clean and Unblock Air Vents
Check all supply and return vents in your home. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust, and make sure vents are not blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains. At least 80 percent of vents should remain open to maintain balanced airflow and system efficiency.
4. Seal Any Leaks in Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can waste a significant amount of heated air, making your system work harder. Proper sealing can reduce heating costs and improve comfort. For the best results, hire a professional HVAC technician to locate and repair leaks with the right materials.
5. Practice Heating Safety
Reduce the risk of heating-related fires by:
- Keeping flammable items at least three feet from your furnace or space heaters.
- Avoiding the use of extension cords for space heaters.
- Never leaving space heaters unattended.
If you notice unusual smells or noises from your furnace, turn it off and call a technician.
6. Inspect Your Furnace’s Flue
A blocked flue can lead to carbon monoxide buildup in your home. Before turning your furnace on for the season, make sure the exhaust vent outside is clear of debris, nests, or other obstructions. If you find a blockage, contact a professional right away.
7. Keep the Furnace Area Clear
Your furnace needs adequate clearance for proper airflow and safe operation. Keep at least 10 to 15 feet of open space around it, and never store flammable products nearby.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These devices are essential for protecting your family from fire or gas leaks. Test them monthly and replace the batteries once a year. Never remove the batteries unless you are replacing them immediately.
9. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
A fall furnace tune-up from a certified technician includes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and performance check. Professional maintenance improves efficiency, reduces the chance of unexpected repairs, and helps extend the life of your system.
10. Consider an Upgrade if Your System Is Aging
If your furnace is more than 10 years old, it may be running at a lower efficiency. Modern high-efficiency systems can be up to 97 percent efficient, which means lower heating bills and better comfort. Replacing an aging system in the fall gives you time to choose the right model without the pressure of a mid-season breakdown.
Schedule Your Fall Maintenance with Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration
At Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration, we know that a well-maintained system is the key to comfort, safety, and efficiency. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, ductwork inspection, or a new high-efficiency furnace, our experienced technicians are here to help.
To book your fall HVAC maintenance and enjoy peace of mind all season long:
Contact Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration Ltd
With extensive expertise in HVAC, Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration proudly supports homeowners and businesses in Surrey, BC and surrounding areas. Our Red Seal certified technicians are committed to delivering professional, reliable service and high-quality solutions you can count on.
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