Autumn in Oregon is one of the most spectacular times of the year. But with the warmer, golden days and cool evenings, temperature swings can make it difficult to know if you need to turn on your air conditioning or heating system. Here are some helpful ways you can stay comfortable this month while keeping your HVAC system operating at peak efficiency.
Avoid drastic thermostat changes.
As temperatures starting cooling off, adjust your thermostat gradually. Extreme swings can put extra strain on your HVAC system, causing premature wear and tear over time. And if you’re looking for energy efficiency and saved money on your utility bill there’s good news: a programmable thermostat can do both! Programmable thermostats can be installed alongside virtually any existing HVAC system and can be automatically adjusted based on the schedule that works best for you.
Open the windows.
September mornings and evenings are brisk and refreshing. That cool outside air is just waiting to be enjoyed! When outside temperatures are cooler, turn off your air conditioner and open your windows so outside air can circulate through your home. This gives your HVAC machine a break and can help reduce energy consumption – a win win!
Schedule a professional autumn tune-up.
Cooler days on the horizon mean your heater should be ready to go. If it hasn’t been used for several months, it’s important to have it professionally inspected and tuned up by our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling. Here, we’ll help identify any potential problems, check important internal and external components, run an energy efficiency check, and give you the green light that things are ready for colder weather. Annual tune-ups are crucial to extending the lifespan of your system and avoiding issues that could cause a full system breakdown.
Don’t neglect air filter maintenance.
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and make your system work harder than it has to. Not to mention, those dirty filters collect dust, debris, bacteria, and other harmful particles that get into the air you breathe and contribute to poor indoor air quality. We recommend cleaning and/or changing air filters every other month.
With some simple, regular maintenance, smart thermostat settings and a little preparation ahead of time, your heating and cooling system will be ready to handle the change of season. If your system is older or has been through many repairs, it might be time to consider a replacement. We can help with that, too! We’ll provide the best options for your unique space and budget and work to get everything installed in time for the changing fall temperatures. Contact us today!