As fall rolls around and leads into winter, September is a good time to at least get started on some HVAC maintenance in preparation for the colder weather ahead. Keep your equipment in tip-top shape and ensure it’s ready to heat your home this winter with this HVAC maintenance checklist.
?Change Filters
Replace or clean the air filters in your HVAC system. Clean filters improve indoor air quality and help your system run more efficiently.
?Inspect Thermostat
Check your thermostat settings to ensure they’re appropriate for the changing weather. Consider using programmable settings to save energy.
?Check Vents & Registers
Make sure all vents and registers are clean, unblocked, and free from dust or debris. Proper airflow helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduces strain on your system.
?Clean Outdoor Unit
Check the outdoor unit. Clear away any leaves, debris, or vegetation that may have accumulated around the outdoor condenser unit. This allows for better airflow and protects your equipment.
?Inspect Ductwork
Check for leaks, loose connections, or damaged ducts. Properly sealed ducts prevent energy waste and ensure efficient heating and cooling. If there’s an issue, call a professional for repair.
?Test Heating Mode
Switch your thermostat to heating mode and ensure your furnace or heat pump starts up correctly. Listen for strange noises and pay attention to any unusual odours.
?Schedule Annual Inspection
The fall is also a good time to have a professional HVAC technician perform a comprehensive inspection. They can identify any potential issues before they become major problems. This is especially important right before the heating season.
?Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test your carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Replace batteries if necessary. With heating systems in use, it’s important to have these detectors in good working condition. Take the time to check your smoke detectors as well.
?Seal Air Leaks
Check for air leaks and drafts around windows and doors. Seal them properly with weatherstripping and caulking to help prevent heat loss and keep your home comfortable. This will also save on energy consumption.
?Insulate
Insulate your home as needed. Check your attic, basement and other areas where heat may escape. Insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics to prevent freezing during cold spells.
?Review Energy Bills
Before heading into winter, compare your energy bills from previous years to identify any unusual spikes. This could indicate an issue with your HVAC system’s efficiency.
?Adjust Ceiling Fans
When it’s time to switch to heating mode, set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This helps distribute warm air that naturally rises and improves overall heating efficiency.
?Consider HVAC Upgrades
If your HVAC system is outdated or inefficient, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. The time to upgrade is before the heating season begins so you’re ready for the cold. Plus, the government of Canada and Enbridge Gas are currently offering grants and rebates to help you upgrade the efficiency of your home. Take advantage of these to save on the installation of certain HVAC equipment.
Call Team Harding
Don’t delay scheduling your annual inspection and maintenance. As we get closer to winter, we get busier with appointments for furnace maintenance. If you want to beat the rush and be ready when winter hits, call Team Harding today. Also remember that this checklist is a general guide, and your specific HVAC system and maintenance needs may vary. If you’re unsure about any of these tasks or if your HVAC system requires professional attention, it’s always a good idea to consult a qualified HVAC technician.
Schedule annual maintenance today!
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Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
