Is your indoor climate control well-prepared for the colder months ahead? We have fairly gentle winters here at Kiawah Island, thanks to our coastal location. Still, that doesn’t justify completely ignoring heating maintenance.
As the go-to HVAC crew in many parts of the Old North State, 5 Star Charleston helps local homeowners keep systems running smoothly. Learn how to properly care for your HVAC unit during the cooler months from our professional tips below!
Replace Your Air Filters
When was the last time you changed your appliance’s filters? They catch dust and other airborne pollutants before they reach your indoors. Buildup clogs them over time.
Just think how a thick layer of grime hampers airflow, forcing the rest of the system to work harder than it should. You end up with poor heating performance and hastened component wear. So, you pay more per month and replace everything sooner!
To prevent this, our HVAC experts recommend that you change the filters at least every three months. Consider doing it more often when your Kiawah Island property has pets, allergy-prone inhabitants, or an older HVAC system.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
No seasonal HVAC prep would be complete without some thermostat adjustments. This device directly controls the heating and cooling output, so it greatly impacts the rest of your system.
Set it to a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature. A good starting point is around 68°F. Lower it a few degrees while you’re away to lower usage costs further.
Upgrade to a smart or programmable model if you haven’t already. It does most of the work for you. You can also set schedules, adjust temperatures remotely, and track energy usage.
Refresh the Outdoor Unit
Do you need to know how to properly care for your HVAC unit during the cooler months? Don’t neglect your outdoor unit, even if you rarely use air conditioning during this period.
Conduct a little fall HVAC care by:
- Removing accumulated leaves, twigs, and debris
- Cleaning the fins gently with a soft brush or hose
- Trimming back vegetation within two feet of the unit
- Checking for corrosion and other issues that need attention
- Thoroughly drying the unit and covering it with a breathable protective material
The last thing you want when the warmer days arrive in Kiawah Island is subpar HVAC efficiency. A little proactive care goes a long way.
Seal Drafts in Your Home
Even the tiniest gaps could waste all the hard work your HVAC unit is doing. Spend some time identifying and sealing breaches around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping.
Don’t forget to check attic insulation, too. It won’t just make your interiors cozier; your heater will also run less, which means lower energy bills and extended unit longevity.
Get Expert Tune-Ups for Cooler Weather HVAC Readiness
It’s important to learn how to care for your HVAC unit properly during the cooler months, but some tasks need a professional touch. 5 Star Charleston always has your heating system upkeep covered. Dial (843) 406-1700 to book a session or get personalized HVAC maintenance tips from us!