Top 4 Tips To Ensure Your HVAC System Is Ready for the Changing Seasons

When the temperatures finally drop below 90 in NOLA, we feel relieved. The break in the heat and humidity is a sign that the cooler months are on their way, and it’s time to get your HVAC system ready for the season change.

Your HVAC system works hard to keep you and your family cool and comfortable during the long summers. As the seasons change, it’s important to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the heating demands.

Why You Need To Prepare Your HVAC for Changing Seasons

Even though your air conditioning system may have been running nonstop during the summer, the heating components have not been used since last winter. However, with a little preparation, you can ensure your HVAC system is ready to heat your home.

How To Prepare Your HVAC for Winter

There are several simple steps you can take to make sure your HVAC system is ready for the season change:

Check the Filter

Your air filter catches debris and lint that is moving through your ducts. Change the air filter regularly to ensure your HVAC system isn’t working harder than it should to push air through the filter.

Change your filter monthly during high-use periods. Otherwise, change it at least every three months for the best results.

Conduct a Test Run

A good strategy for ensuring your HVAC system is ready for the winter is turning it on before you need it. On a mild day, set your thermostat to heat to see how your heat pump or furnace functions. Inspect your system and vents to see if you notice any odd smells, sounds, or other abnormalities with it while it’s running.

Doing this test run ahead of time gives you the opportunity to make the repairs and adjustments you need before the cold weather sets in.

Listen to Your System

A test run also gives you the opportunity to listen to your system. When your HVAC system turns on, some sounds are common, such as:

• Clicking sounds as the ignition lights and electrical connections spark to life
• Low humming sound as the motor runs
• Subtle knocking sounds as the ductwork expands and contracts during a heating cycle

Other sounds, like loud knocking, continuous clicking, or banging within the ductwork, signal that something has gone wrong with your HVAC system. There are several reasons your HVAC system could be making loud sounds, and it’s important to have a professional help you get to the root of the cause.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

One of the most important steps to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the season change is scheduling professional maintenance. A professional technician will thoroughly clean and inspect your system for damage. They’ll tighten connections, lubricate moving parts, and fix any issues before they become larger problems.

Other benefits of routine HVAC system maintenance include:

• Extending the life span of your system
• Reducing expensive repairs
• Improving energy efficiency
• Lowering utility bills
• Improving indoor comfort
• Maintaining your system warranty

Stuart Services Can Help You Get Your HVAC System Ready for Winter

The professionals at Stuart Services are ready to help you get your HVAC system prepped for the coming winter. We’ll deliver a comprehensive inspection and tune-up that keeps your HVAC system working well all season long.

Make your HVAC maintenance appointment today! To schedule, call Stuart Services at 504-321-2079 or contact us online.