Yes, it’s the dreaded F-word. We are talking about FALL. It will be here before we know it, and with the upcoming cool weather, you will want to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the heat to kick on when you need it to. Most of the preparations that need to be done are very easy and only take a couple of minutes, but Ignite wants you to know just what you should be doing to make sure that your HVAC system is ready to go when you need it. So with the cool climate of fall right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start preparing your HVAC system for cooler weather. Follow these 4 steps to be prepared:
Step #1: Change Your Filter
Furnace filters need to be changed out frequently, and one of the best ways to prepare your HVAC system for fall is to install a new filter. Dirty furnace filters not only reduce the air quality in your home, but they also create blockages in your system, which can prevent clean air from getting into your home. To make sure that you aren’t overspending on your energy bills this fall, put a new filter in your HVAC system now. At Ignite we recommend changing your furnace filter every 3 months if you have a typical 1″ wide filter.
Step #2: Schedule Annual Maintenance
It is important that you schedule your annual HVAC maintenance on your furnace. With regular maintenance you can both increase efficiency and prepare for the cold weather ahead. If you have your furnace cleaned and checked you will enhance your system’s performance and a professional HVAC technician can optimize your unit for maximum output. This is also the perfect time for a qualified service tech to spot any potential problems or repairs that might need to be made—before the cold winter weather arrives. If you live in the Edmonton and surrounding area, an Ignite technician is available to inspect your unit to make sure everything is operating as it should be.
A furnace clean & check by Ignite Heating generally takes about an hour. During this time, one of our expert technicians will go through a checklist of items that will ensure that your furnace is running as efficiently and safely as possible. A few items on our comprehensive checklist include:
- Flushing vent pipe and floor drains
- Checking cold resistance of ignitor
- Inspecting control board for discolorizution
- Cleaning and/or replacing furnace filter
- Checking operation of humidifier
- Inspecting all electrical connections
- Cleaning the flame sensor
- Checking thermostat operation
- Checking fresh air supply for combustion and ventilation
- Removing, inspecting & cleaning vent cap
- Inspecting ductwork
If you have any specific concerns about your furnace, a clean & check appointment is the perfect opportunity to brings these problems up. Our qualified HVAC technician can check to make sure that there are no issues or surprises ahead and can answer your questions.
Step #3: Check For Air Leaks
If you have leaks in your ductwork, windows, or doors, your HVAC system can’t work efficiently. Drafts in your home are a sign that there are leaks in your system. Make sure all of your windows and doors are properly sealed with caulk and weather-stripping. You can also fix leaky ductwork with aluminum tape. A professional HVAC technician can also help you make sure that your ductwork is properly sealed to enhance your system efficiency.
Step #4: Upgrade Your System
If there is a time of year to take a day off without needing heating or cooling, it’s during fall. Our temperatures tend to be mild in September, neither too hot nor too cold. So it’s the perfect weather to upgrade your furnace. It’s a great time of year for a free quote and get a new furnace installed in your home without any discomfort. So if your HVAC system is old and needs replacing, now is the perfect time to act.
At Ignite Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd., your comfort is our concern! Call us today at (780) 919-4916 for all your heating and cooling requests and inquiries. We have professional, friendly technicians who are ready to answer your questions and help you prepare for the season ahead.