Minor Autumn Season Repairs for Your HVAC System

18 August 2020
 Categories: , Blog

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When summer is nearing its end, the days might still be hot enough that you're not preparing for the cold days ahead. However, as many homeowners know, early maintenance and repairs can help prevent future emergencies. Before the cool days of autumn take hold, perform standard maintenance on your HVAC system.

With early maintenance, you can come across issues that need repair. Look for the following issues so you can have them repaired before the HVAC technicians are busy with seasonal emergencies.

Thermostat Efficacy

HVAC technicians get a surprising number of calls related to the thermostat, some of which homeowners themselves can repair. These repairs include ensuring the thermostat's power source is sufficient. That said, thermostats do fail, especially if you've had it for several years. If your thermostat doesn't seem accurate, consider replacing it.

Dirty Evaporator Coils

Don't ignore your AC as you head into the cooler months. Your evaporator coils may have become dirty with all the use you've been giving the system. Pay attention to the efficiency of how your unit cools your rooms. Longer cooling times indicate dirty coils — have your evaporator coils cleaned before you shut down the AC unit for the winter.

Burner Operation

One method of heating for your home is via combustion burners. If they're dirty or clogged, they won't ignite in the combustion chamber. Look for the telltale sign of a dirty or clogged burner — uneven or yellow flames. They should be even and blue. While you might still get heat come winter, you're better off having the burner cleaned and adjusted now.

Blower Belt Condition

The HVAC system blows hot air through your house with a blower. Many blowers feature a belt to turn the fan. Inspect this belt, and look for any signs of cracks or fraying. If the belt snaps during operation, the furnace can't blow heat throughout your house. It may damage nearby parts, too, when it snaps. Have an HVAC tech replace it if it looks old and worn.

Air Duct Sealing

Your HVAC needs an air-tight system of ducts to operate efficiently. You can test your return air ducts by turning on the heater and holding burning incense up near the return duct. The smoke should draw into the hood. If you see leaks, your air ducts need better sealing. Techs can apply metal tape to the problem areas to seal the ducts back up and repair any other leaks.

Don't leave minor repairs alone, or they can become emergencies. Instead, have the above heater and AC unit repairs attended to in the transitional autumn season.