After a long hot summer in Round Rock and Central Texas, your HVAC system has been working pretty much nonstop to keep your home cool and comfortable. Once temperatures finally begin to drop your system gets a much needed break. Fall is a great time to check on it and make sure everything is still working like it should be.

Fall HVAC maintenance gives you a chance to check how your system handled the hot summer, prepare your heating system for cooler weather, and take care of any maintenance that may have been overlooked during the hotter months.

Give Your System a Check After the Summer Heat

Summers here in Central Texas can be pretty hard on an HVAC system. When your AC is running day after day the dirt can build up, filters can become clogged, and parts of the system can wear down over time. Even if your AC kept your home comfortable all summer, that doesn’t necessarily mean everything is in perfect condition.

Make Sure Your Heat Is Ready Before You Need It

It may still feel warm and icky outside, but we all know how quickly the weather can change here in Texas. That’s why it’s a good idea to test your heat before you actually need it. You don’t want to find out something isn’t working on the first cold night of the year. During fall maintenance a technician can check the heating side of your HVAC system and make sure it starts, runs, and operates properly. Checking your heat ahead of time gives you a chance to catch any issues before the colder weather arrives.

Give Your Air Filter and Airflow Some Attention

Fall is also a good time to check your air filter and airflow throughout your home. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make it harder for your HVAC system to move conditioned air throughout the house. Check your filter and replace it if it looks dirty or clogged. You can also walk around the house and check your vents. Make sure there isn’t any furniture, rugs, boxes, or anything else sitting in front of them.

If you notice a weak airflow or rooms that are consistently warmer or cooler than others, there may be an airflow issue that needs professional attention.

Clean Up Around Your Outdoor Unit

Along with your indoor unit, the outdoor unit should also be checked. After a full summer of heat, storms, and yard work, leaves, grass clippings, dirt, and other debris can build up around your outdoor unit. Clear any leaves, grass, or other debris around the unit that could block airflow, and make sure nearby plants or landscaping aren’t growing too close to it. Keeping the area clean gives the outdoor equipment room to breathe and also makes it easier for an HVAC technician to access the system during a maintenance visit.

What Happens During Fall HVAC Maintenance?

There are several maintenance tasks homeowners can take care of themselves, but professional maintenance allows a technician to inspect the system more thoroughly. During a fall maintenance visit a technician may:

  • Inspect the thermostat and system controls
  • Check electrical connections
  • Inspect the air filter and airflow
  • Look for worn or damaged parts
  • Check the heating system
  • Inspect the outdoor equipment
  • Test overall system operation

A professional inspection can also help identify smaller issues that may not be obvious during everyday use.

What Should the Homeowner Do?

You don’t have to wait for your maintenance appointment to start getting your HVAC system ready for fall. Homeowners can take a few simple steps as the seasons begin to change:

  • Check your air filter and replace it when needed.
  • Check that nothing is blocking your vents or restricting airflow.
  • Remove leaves and debris from around the outdoor HVAC unit.
  • Test your heat before the first cold front arrives.
  • Check your thermostat and update your settings for the cooler season.
  • Pay attention to unusual noises, smells, or airflow when your system is running.
  • Schedule fall HVAC maintenance if your system is due for professional service.

If you notice anything unusual when switching from cooling to heating, contact an HVAC professional. It’s better to have the system inspected before a small issue has the chance to turn into a bigger problem!

When Should You Schedule Fall HVAC Maintenance?

Ideally HVAC maintenance should be scheduled before you begin relying heavily on your heating system. This gives you a chance to take care of any issues before the first cold front arrives and before HVAC companies get busier as temperatures drop.

Ready for Fall HVAC Maintenance in Round Rock?

If your HVAC system has been working hard through another Texas summer, fall is a great time to give it some attention. TemperaturePro Round Rock can inspect your system, check for potential issues, and make sure your heating and cooling equipment is ready for the season ahead!