With crisp weather and changing colors, fall in Williamsburg, Virginia, is a beautiful time of the year. Fall is also the season when you start changing how you use your climate control system. It’s the perfect time to get your system ready for the impending winter. There are several chores you should complete during the fall that can help keep your HVAC system in good working condition through the winter.
Swap the Furnace Filter
It may seem counterintuitive to change your furnace filter before the coldest weather hits. However, your furnace filter can accumulate dust and other pollutants when you aren’t using it. These particles will circulate in your home once your system begins to draw air through the filter.
Dust builds up both on the outside and inside of the filter. If you notice more dust than usual inside your home after running your furnace for a few days, the filter is likely the culprit. Plus, installing a new filter can help reduce utility bills, as the system has to work harder to pull air in through a clogged filter. Change your furnace filter every 60 to 90 days to maximize HVAC efficiency and maintain healthy indoor air quality.
Switch the Fan Direction
During the summer, your fans should be set to a counterclockwise direction to help create a wind-chill effect and provide extra ventilation. The opposite is true during winter: Setting your fans clockwise can actually keep your home warmer. Instead of pushing cool air down, the clockwise motion pulls it up while distributing warm air that has risen to the ceiling.
Your fan should have a simple switch near the blades to change direction. Plus, by stopping the warm air from building up by your ceiling and pushing it back into your living space, your heater won’t have to work as hard. As a result, you’ll increase efficiency and save money. Just be sure to switch the blades back when the temperature starts to rise again!
The experts at Kearney & Sons can help you get your home in shape for the heating season. Give us a call at (757) 269-9589 to set up an appointment today!
Image provided by Shutterstock
