Fall is upon us. The leaves are changing, the Green and Gold are on the field, and the thermostat is soon to be switched from Cool to Heat.
I know no one wants to hear the last part of that comment, but it’s happening whether we like it or not. So, it’s time to begin preparing for the cold months and pay some attention to your HVAC system.
Here’s what you can do to get ready. People look at their system and feel there is nothing they can do, but that’s not true. One of the first things you should do is change your filter on the furnace. The blower runs in the summer and filters get dirty. It may not be too bad, but the usage is going to be more frequent, so a new clean filter is best.
Inspect your ductwork that is accessible for air leakage and loose connections. They can reduce performance and create annoying rattles in the middle of the night. If you have some leakage in your ducting system, pick up some quality silicone that is rated for use on metal and seal them. It comes in aluminum or gray for the same price, so you can choose the finish that looks best.
Now, let’s move to the thermostat. Turn it to heat and raise it a few degrees. The furnace will cycle on and begin to produce warm air. Listen for noises, squealing, or grinding, and if any are present, investigate or call a professional. Forced air systems can produce a dusty odor on the first firing or two, which is normal. If it smells like electrical or something burning, shut the system down immediately. If you haven’t changed your thermostat’s batteries in a while, now is a good time to put in new ones, and don’t forget your CO and smoke detectors also.
Well, you’ve now done everything that you can do to at least know it’s working and ready. Your HVAC contractor can really dig into the system and take readings such as static pressure, gas pressures, temperature rise, flue gas readings, voltage/amperage readings, etc. If these aren’t being checked, it is like walking into your doctor for a yearly exam and the doctor saying “Well, you look good and walked in here, so everything is OK!” The tests and readings I previously mentioned are equivalent to blood pressure, blood draws, and X-rays. The things that can’t be seen on the surface.
Following these basic tips and having your system professionally checked can save you money on utility bills and potentially avoid repair service calls.
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