Hutchinson’s Post-Season Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist

Now that autumn has arrived, and the leaves are falling and changing colors, it’s time to cross off those HVAC maintenance items on your post-season to-do list.

Your air conditioner worked overtime this summer keeping you cool so why not pamper your cooling system post-season? It’s important to clean and protect your systems now, so that next season it will operate efficiently and hopefully for many seasons thereafter.

Here are some do-it-yourself tips that you can handle on your own to keep your cooling system in tip top shape.

1. Replace your air filter – Dust, dander, mold, pollen and so much more can collect in there, so replacing the filter at the end of summer and the end of winter will ensure efficiency as well as your furnace starting off on the right foot for the season to follow.
2. Clean up your outdoor unit – Clean away any dirt or leaves surrounding the unit so that nothing can interfere with its operation. You should also clean the fins in the unit with a soft brush or garden hose to maintain proper air flow and optimized performance.
3. Check home vents and air return – To increase heat and airflow and reduce build up, make sure you clean your vents and air returns.
4. Adjust thermostat settings – Homeowners with programmable thermostats, listen up. Now is the perfect time to make the appropriate adjustments to your thermostat as the weather begins to cool. Failure to adjust will send your AC or heat pump unit into overtime, not working as efficiently as it could. If you do not have a programmable thermostat, now is the time to upgrade!

While the above tips are important to keep your unit in an efficient, running condition, they do not replace tune ups and scheduled cleaning services. That’s when it’s necessary to have a professional, experienced HVAC maintenance crew nearby. This maintenance will improve your unit’s performance and efficiency for now and the upcoming season. Hutchinson recommends getting both your furnace and AC serviced at the same time.

Trust Hutchinson to provide the essential cleaning, care, and inspection to ensure your heating system is up to the challenge of keeping your home cozy and comfortable throughout the winter months.