Summer is still giving us sunny days, but fall is just around the corner. Your air conditioner has been working hard to keep things comfortable, and before you make the seasonal switch to heating, it’s worth giving your HVAC system a little attention.
Think of this as your end-of-season HVAC maintenance check-in: a few simple things you can tackle around the house, along with some important checks that are best left to the professionals.
Start with this quick checklist, then we’ll break down what each step actually means.
Your End-of-Season HVAC Checklist
- Change or check your air filters
- Inspect your thermostat
- Check vents and registers
- Clear the outdoor unit
- Inspect visible ductwork
- Schedule your annual inspection
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
- Check for air leaks, drafts, and insulate
- Consider whether it’s time for an HVAC upgrade
Got the screenshot? Excellent. Now let’s talk about why each one matters.
Change Filters
Let’s start with the humble HVAC filter — small, inexpensive, and somehow one of the easiest things in the house to forget.
Check your filter regularly and replace it according to your system and manufacturer’s recommendations. Harding recommends homeowners check their furnace filter monthly, since factors such as pets, dust, and how often you open your windows can affect how quickly a filter becomes clogged. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your equipment work harder.
Not sure which filter your system needs? That’s a question for your HVAC professional, not a guessing game in the hardware aisle.
Inspect & Test the Thermostat
Your thermostat has spent the summer calling the shots. Now it’s time to make sure it’s ready for heating season.
Check your settings and adjust your schedule for the changing weather. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, review those settings now so your home is comfortable when you need the heat.
Don’t forget to switch your thermostat to heating mode and make sure the system starts normally. Pay attention to anything unusual, including strange noises, unexpected smells, or anything else that seems different from normal operation.
If something doesn’t seem right, don’t wait for the first freezing night to find out whether it gets worse. That’s a good time to call in a professional.
Check Vents & Registers
Take a quick walk through your home and make sure vents and registers are clean, open, and free from furniture, rugs, dust, or other debris.
Good airflow helps your HVAC system distribute conditioned air throughout your home. If one room is suddenly much colder than another, check the airflow.
Clean Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit has spent the summer doing the heavy lifting. Give it a little breathing room before winter arrives.
Clear away leaves, grass, dirt, and other debris around the outdoor condenser so airflow isn’t obstructed. You can handle the visible cleanup, but leave anything involving the internal components or electrical connections to a qualified professional.
Inspect Ductwork
If you can see accessible ductwork, look for obvious gaps, loose connections, or visible damage. Properly sealed ductwork helps keep conditioned air where it belongs and can reduce unnecessary energy loss.
Found something suspicious? Don’t start taking the ducts apart. An HVAC professional can assess the system and determine whether repairs or sealing are needed.
Schedule Annual Inspection
This is the one to put on the calendar.
Regular professional maintenance gives a qualified HVAC technician the opportunity to inspect, clean, and assess your equipment before you rely on it throughout the heating season. Harding recommends seasonal inspections because they can help identify potential issues, support efficient operation, and make sure your equipment is ready before you need it.
And yes, we’d much rather find a problem during a scheduled maintenance visit than during a January cold snap. Your furnace probably feels the same way.
Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test your carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if necessary. Since heating equipment will soon be running regularly, making sure your detectors are working properly is an important part of seasonal home preparation.
While you’re at it, test your smoke detectors, too. One quick check now is much better than discovering a dead battery when you really need that alarm.
Seal Air Leaks & Insulate
Check around windows and doors for noticeable drafts or gaps. Weatherstripping and caulking can help reduce unwanted heat loss and keep your home more comfortable.
Take a look at areas where heat may escape, including your attic, basement, crawl spaces, and other poorly insulated areas.
It’s also worth checking exposed pipes in unheated areas and making sure they’re properly insulated to help protect against freezing during cold weather.
If you’re unsure whether your home’s insulation is adequate, a professional can help identify areas that may need attention.
Consider HVAC Upgrades
If your HVAC system is getting older, requiring frequent repairs, or struggling to keep your home comfortable, fall is a good time to consider your options.
Planning an upgrade before the heating season is in full swing gives you time to explore the equipment that’s right for your home instead of making a rushed decision because your furnace has chosen the coldest night of the year for its dramatic retirement.
A qualified HVAC professional can help assess your current system, understand your home’s needs, and recommend appropriate options.
One Less Thing to Worry About
You don’t need to become an HVAC expert to take good care of your home comfort system. A few simple checks, a little seasonal preparation, and regular professional maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your heating and cooling equipment ready for the season ahead.
Because being cozy is great.
Being cozy without an emergency furnace repair at 2 a.m is even better.
