How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Changing Seasons

The demands on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems change with the seasons. If your HVAC system isn't well maintained and ready for the season, it may not be able to keep up with the season's needs, leading to higher energy bills and possible breakdowns. Therefore, getting your HVAC system ready for the change of seasons is important if you want it to last and work well. 

The steps below will help you prepare your HVAC system for the changing seasons

Scheduling a Tune-up

A tune-up lets a professional check the system and ensure it is in good shape before temperatures get too hot or too cold. The technician will clean the system, check for leaks or damage, and make necessary repairs during a tune-up. This checkup will help to ensure that the system is running at peak efficiency, extending the system's life and lowering energy costs. 

The technician will also check and adjust the system's settings, such as the thermostat, to ensure it works at its best for the next season. 

Changing Your Air Filters

Changing your air filters can significantly impact your system's efficiency and performance. The main job of an air filter is to catch dust, pollen, and other things floating around your home. These filters can become clogged over time, limiting airflow and decreasing system efficiency.

When airflow is restricted, the system has to work harder to circulate the air, raising energy costs and placing additional strain on the system. Since the system runs more often in the winter and summer, it's essential to ensure the air filter is clean and working well. A dirty or clogged filter can also make it harder for the system to heat or cool your home, which can be uncomfortable.

Changing your air filters can also help to improve indoor air quality by removing these contaminants from the air. This process is especially beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Insulating and Sealing Your Ducts

Because ducts send heated or cooled air all over your home, properly insulating and sealing them can help you save energy and money. 

During the winter, insulated ducts can help keep warm air from escaping and cold air from coming in. In the summer, insulated and sealed ducts can help keep cool air in and hot air out, keeping your home cooler and reducing the workload on your air conditioning system. Therefore, it helps keep the temperature inside the house stable and comfortable, no matter the season.

Consider a Programmable Thermostat 

A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different seasons and times of the day.

For example, a programmable thermostat in the winter allows you to set lower temperatures during the day when you are not at home or at night when you are sleeping. This allows it to cut down on how much energy you use to heat your home when you don't need to. On the other hand, the thermostat can do the opposite in the summer.

You can also program different temperatures for different days of the week with a programmable thermostat, which can help you adapt to your schedule. You can, for example, set a higher temperature for weekends when you are more likely to be at home and a lower temperature for weekdays when you are at work or school.

Briarwood Heating & Cooling is a licensed business that can help you prepare your HVAC system for the changing seasons. No matter the season, our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency. We cover everything from pre-season tune-ups to emergency repairs. 

Don't let a broken HVAC system ruin your comfort or cost you money. Contact Briarwood Heating & Cooling today to schedule your next service appointment and make sure your HVAC system is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.