Here’s what to check this fall

As cold weather approaches, fall is a good time to ensure your heating and cooling system is ready for winter. A few simple maintenance steps can improve comfort, reduce energy use, and help prevent a breakdown when you need heat the most.

Schedule a professional inspection

• Have your heating system inspected by a qualified HVAC professional each year, preferably before winter weather arrives. A professional can check for worn parts, airflow issues, safe operation, and other problems that may not be obvious to a homeowner.
• Ensure the inspection includes checking for proper ventilation and signs of carbon monoxide risks if your home has a gas, propane or oil furnace.

Change or clean air filters

• Check your air filter regularly and replace or clean it as needed — usually every one to three months. A dirty filter can block airflow, make your system work harder and affect indoor air quality.
• Consider filter changes more often for homes with pets, allergies, heavy system use or significant dust.

Check airflow throughout the home

• Ensure all registers and vents are clean and not blocked by furniture, rugs, curtains or other items.
• Vacuum vents to remove dust and keep air moving freely. If you notice excessive dust around vents, uneven heating, or weak airflow, it may be time to have a professional check your system and ductwork.
• Keep most of the registers open throughout your home. Closing vents in unused rooms may seem like a way to save energy, but it can disrupt airflow and make your system work harder.

Reduce heat loss

• Look for drafts around windows and doors and seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Check insulation in attics, basements and crawl spaces. Proper insulation can help keep warm air inside and reduce strain on your heating system.

Prepare outdoor HVAC equipment

• Remove leaves, branches, grass clippings and other debris around outdoor HVAC equipment. Trim shrubs and vegetation to maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Check gutters and downspouts to ensure water drains away from HVAC equipment.
• Check your furnace’s outdoor air intake and exhaust pipes. Snow, ice or debris can block airflow, keep your furnace from operating properly and increase the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
• Keep outdoor heat pumps clear of snow, ice and debris during the winter. Do not cover a heat pump while it is operating, because it needs airflow to work properly.

Adjust your thermostat for energy savings

• Install or program a smart thermostat to match your household schedule. Lowering the temperature when you are asleep or away from home can help save energy without compromising comfort.
• Review the settings on your smart or programmable thermostat before winter begins. You could set the fan to “auto” during mild fall weather to circulate air efficiently without unnecessary energy use.

Know when it may be time for a replacement

Heating systems more than 10 years old may operate less efficiently than newer models. Planning ahead can help you avoid an emergency replacement during extreme cold. Check with your utility for rebates on energy-efficient replacements.

• Watch for signs such as increasing energy bills, uneven heating, frequent repairs, unusual noises or a system that takes too long to heat your home.
• When it is time to replace your system, consider Energy Star -labeled equipment for long-term energy savings and efficiency. These include high-efficiency furnaces, air-source heat pumps or geothermal heat pumps, depending on your home, climate and budget.