Just because summer is over in Sonoma County and you aren’t running your air conditioner as often, does not mean that you should completely forget about your HVAC system. Like changing out your summer clothes for fall ones or doing a bit of post-summer vehicle maintenance, your HVAC system also requires some seasonal attention, leaving it in optimal shape for the changing weather. Checking things out when conditions are still relatively fair will save you time, money, and hassle, and will keep you from having to go without heat during those harsh winter months.

Here are some HVAC priorities to tackle this fall:

Check for Leaks and Drafts

  • The first thing you want to do is check for leaks and drafts around doors and windows. Letting that warm air escape and cold air inside is counter-productive and will cost you an unnecessary dime. Determine whether or not there are cracks around areas leading to the outside as well as loose window stripping. 
  • Depending on the type of insulation your home has and how long it has been installed, aging and damage can occur. It would be beneficial to look into those things and to add more insulation to areas of need. 
  • Don’t forget about your attic and chimney if you have them—attics can be a main source for a draft to come through and chimneys should be kept clean regularly, especially if they are used often. 

Change Your Home Air Filter

According to Home Depot, the frequency of changing your air filter at home really depend on the type of filter you use: 

  • Fiberglass filters need to be changed more often—about every 30 days—since they are a lower cost option and not as long-lasting.
  • Pleated filters can be changed less often, about every three to six months.

The type of filter is not the only factor affecting how often you need to change it. The following are also important considerations:

  • Size of home
  • Animals in the home
  • Air quality
  • Allergies or medical conditions

Get a Smart or Programmable Thermostat

The benefits of using a smart or programmable thermostat versus a manual one are that the system will work more efficiently and effectively to regulate the temperature of each area that there is one installed. You will also be able to program or change the temperature depending on the weather or time of day, which can be pre-set or through an app on a phone or tablet. There are several different types of thermostats that are smart or programmable, with a variety of features and conveniences to choose from. 

Doing these three things before winter arrives will only be in your home’s best interest. Even though maintaining your home in the fall costs time and money up front, ultimately it will be worth it when you do not have any winter-weather HVAC disasters. If you realize that you need some assistance with getting your home winter ready, do not hesitate to contact Dale Heating Cooling and Sheetmetal, who have been proudly serving Sonoma and the surrounding areas since 1989.