Why Fall HVAC Maintenance Matters Before Cooler Weather Hits
Fall HVAC maintenance is essential now that summer is behind us and fall is officially here. Even though fall brings mild temperatures to Phoenix and Tempe, AZ, there are still ways you can prepare your HVAC unit for the months to come. Your comfort is a priority, and you should never be without cool air or comfortable heat when you need it most. Here are the top ways to prepare your HVAC unit for fall!
1. Change Air Filters
We recommend you change your air filters every 1–3 months to ensure healthy indoor air quality and to keep your HVAC unit running at optimal performance. The air filters in your system are responsible for trapping common pollutants, such as dust, dirt, dander, mold, and more. If you don’t change your air filters, eventually they can become clogged, and air won’t be able to pass through as readily. Not only does this impact the quality of your air, but it can also put a strain on your HVAC unit.
2. Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit
As part of your fall HVAC maintenance, don’t forget to check your outdoor condenser unit. Clear away any leaves, twigs, or debris within a 2-foot radius to ensure proper airflow. A clean area around your unit helps it operate efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
3. Weatherproof Your Home
You may be surprised to know how much air is escaping through air leaks near the openings of your home, such as doors and windows. As part of your fall HVAC maintenance, weatherproofing can help keep your heated or cooled air inside and reduce energy costs. Some easy and affordable ways to weatherproof your home include caulking, weatherstripping, and sealing cracks around windows and door frames.
4. Test Your Furnace
When the temperatures start dropping in the fall, that’s a good time to turn on your heat to make sure everything is working as it should. Simply turn on your furnace and let the warm air blow through your vents, even if just for a short period. If you smell something burning, don’t be alarmed. That is completely normal after your heater has been lying dormant for months.
While testing your furnace, take a moment to check your thermostat settings and replace the batteries if needed. These small steps ensure your system will respond reliably when cooler temperatures hit.
5. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Because your furnace will be running more in the coming months, this is a great time to inspect your carbon monoxide detectors. Replace any old batteries and ensure each unit is functioning properly. This simple step is an important part of fall HVAC maintenance and helps protect your household during heating season.
Schedule Your Fall HVAC Maintenance with Wolfgang’s in Phoenix, AZ
Even if your HVAC unit appears to be working fine, it’s still a good idea to schedule fall HVAC maintenance with a professional technician. Routine tune-ups help identify and resolve small issues before they become major repairs.
During a maintenance visit, your HVAC technician will inspect all system components, check refrigerant levels, clean coils, test airflow, and calibrate the thermostat. Not only does this give you peace of mind, but it ensures year-round comfort and keeps your system running efficiently when you need it most.
