As temperatures start to dip, it's time to shift your home from cooling mode to heating mode. Tackling a few simple fall HVAC tasks now can help keep your family comfortable all season and prevent costly breakdowns once winter arrives. This guide walks you through shutting down your AC, prepping your furnace, and making the most of fall's variable weather.

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Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips and Checklist

If your air conditioner carried you through the summer, it's now time to shift focus to shutting it down properly and getting your heating system ready to go. A little fall HVAC maintenance now can help you avoid unnecessary repair calls and keep your home comfortable once the cold sets in.

How to Turn Off a Central AC Unit

Most central AC units can be shut down for the season in three simple steps:

  • Turn off the breaker switch on your AC unit. Cutting power at the breaker protects your system from unexpected electrical issues while it sits unused.
  • Remove leaves and debris. Clear any buildup around the outdoor unit so it isn't sitting in moisture or organic debris all winter.
  • Cover the unit to prevent snow and ice build-up. A proper cover helps protect your condenser from the elements until you're ready to use it again next spring.

How to Remove a Window AC Unit Safely

When temperatures start to dip, it's time to remove your window AC unit. Enlist the help of a friend to:

  1. Turn the unit off completely.
  2. Unplug the unit from the wall.
  3. Remove the front panel.
  4. Pick a place in the room to set your AC unit immediately after it's removed.
  5. Hold the unit steady.
  6. Use a screwdriver to open the window frame, if necessary, or open the top of the window enough to reach one arm through.
  7. Pull one side of the AC unit into the room, letting the other side rest on the windowsill.
  8. When you're both ready, pull the unit into the room completely, sliding it off the windowsill.
  9. If possible, place the AC unit on a towel and slide it carefully to where it will be stored for winter.
  10. Tape any additional hardware to the unit itself, including screws, covers, or tags, to avoid misplacing those pieces while it's in storage.

HVAC Fall Tune Up

An HVAC fall tune-up from One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the best ways to catch small issues before they become expensive winter repairs. During a fall tune-up, your technician will typically:

  • Inspect and clean components as needed
  • Test your thermostat
  • Check all electrical connections
  • Inspect the heat exchanger and burners
  • Check refrigerant levels where applicable
  • Inspect your fan motor for signs of damage or debris

Scheduling this appointment before the weather turns cold means you're not stuck waiting in line with everyone else once temperatures drop and furnaces across the neighborhood start acting up.

Fall Furnace Maintenance

Before you rely on your furnace for the season, a few basic fall furnace maintenance steps can make a big difference:

  • Replace your air filter. A fresh filter helps your furnace run efficiently and protects your indoor air quality.
  • Clear obstructed vents. Make sure nothing is blocking airflow to or from your vents after a summer of rearranged furniture.
  • Listen, watch, and smell when you first turn it on. Pay attention to unusual sounds, dust near the unit, or any odd smells that could signal a problem needing professional attention.
  • Check your carbon monoxide detector. Combustion-based heating systems can pose a CO risk if there's a crack or misalignment in the venting, so make sure your detector is working properly before you start relying on the heat.

Fall Energy Efficiency Tips

Here's how to use autumn's variable weather to your advantage and reduce your overall energy use. Pick your ideal indoor temperature for fall and pay attention to your favorite weather app. Here's the game plan:

  • Open windows when outdoor temperatures are below your desired temperature. This will help cool your home early in the morning and keep it cooler longer as temperatures rise throughout the day.
  • Close windows when outdoor temperatures are higher than your desired indoor temperature. This will help your home retain heat longer without needing to start your furnace for the season.

No Matter The Season, We're Here to Help!

Enjoy fall comfortably by staying on top of your fall HVAC maintenance. By shutting down your AC properly, prepping your furnace, and keeping energy efficiency in mind, you can avoid costly repairs and stay comfortable as temperatures drop.

Budget keeping you from tackling your list? Ask about available financing options.

You don't have to handle your seasonal HVAC maintenance alone. Count on your local One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning to lend a helping hand.