Autumn in Georgia—how absolutely gorgeous. But don’t get so busy enjoying the fall weather that you forget to take care of business that needs to be done before winter. We’ll help you.
Here’s a fall prep checklist, so you can get your HVAC system switched over for the season: your AC shut down properly and heat ready to go. Let’s get to it!
1: AC Evaluation
Before you do anything else, consider your air conditioner. Was it making odd noises or failing to get your home properly cool over the summer? Does it smell funny? Did you skip maintenance in the springtime? If your air conditioner could use service, schedule that now. Don’t wait all winter long, because problems could worsen by then.
2: AC Shutdown
It’s not as simple as switching your thermostat over to heat. Your air conditioner actually has an off switch. Did you know that? If not, it could be hard to locate, so we’ll give you directions. Head outside. Near the outdoor unit there will be a weatherproof electrical box, like the sort you often find on outdoor outlets. Open it and flip the switch. That’s it. This will prevent electrical issues from occurring during the winter.
3: AC Cleanup
That outdoor unit might be in rough shape. It’s easy to get covered in dust, mud, lawn clippings, autumn leaves, and more when you sit outside all year long. To help it stay in better condition, it should be cleaned in the fall. Rake the larger debris away. Trim any plants that are getting too cozy with it. Then gently rinse it off with a hose. Allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
4: AC Protection
Covering your air conditioner for the winter will help prevent any other dirt, mess, windblown debris, or other things from causing problems. You can do this by tightly wrapping it with heavy plastic sheeting. Or, if you prefer, you can purchase AC outdoor unit covers at a hardware or home goods store. Just make sure, whatever you use, it is tightly secured. You don’t want it blowing away!
5: Duct Evaluation
Did you know that the average American home has such leaky ductwork that 30% of the heated or cooled air is lost through holes before it gets to the vents? What a terrible waste! Having your ducts inspected now could mean spending a lot less on energy for heat this winter. A qualified HVAC technician can seal or repair ductwork to prevent this loss.
6: Heating Maintenance
Fall is the best time to have your heating system’s routine maintenance performed. Your technician will clean and lubricate the system, check over all the components, and do electrical testing. After that, it will run more effectively and efficiently, have drastically reduced likelihood of causing a safety issue like a fire or carbon monoxide leak, and will be unlikely to need any repairs this winter.
To schedule maintenance or ask any other questions about your HVAC system in Alpharetta, GA, contact us today!
Reach out to Wall Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. with any inquiries or to make an appointment.