As fall settles in and the temperatures in Temecula start to cool down, now is the perfect time to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the coming winter months. While winters here are generally mild, you still want your heating system to perform efficiently when needed. Here are some tips to help prepare your HVAC system for a smooth transition into winter.
1. Check Your Thermostat Settings
During the summer, your thermostat was likely set to keep your home cool, but now it’s time to adjust it for the cooler weather. A good rule of thumb is to keep your thermostat at about 68°F during the day when you’re home and lower it at night or when you’re away to save on heating costs.
If you don’t already have one, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring both comfort and energy efficiency.
2. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
Just like any other mechanical system, your furnace requires regular maintenance to perform at its best. A fall furnace tune-up helps to ensure that your system is running efficiently and safely before the cold weather hits.
During a tune-up, a professional HVAC technician will inspect all components of your system, clean any dirty parts, and identify any potential issues that could lead to costly breakdowns in the middle of winter. This is the perfect time to get ahead of any problems and avoid emergency repairs later in the season.
3. Check for Leaks and Insulate
Even though Temecula winters are mild, drafts and leaks can significantly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. Take the time to inspect your home for drafts around windows and doors. Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to keep the warm air inside and the cold air out.
Additionally, check your ductwork for leaks. Leaky ducts can cause heated air to escape into areas like attics or crawl spaces, wasting energy and making your system work harder than necessary. Insulating your ducts is another great way to improve your system's efficiency.
4. Change Air Filters
One of the simplest but most effective ways to maintain your HVAC system is by regularly changing the air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder to heat your home, which leads to higher energy bills and more wear and tear on the equipment.
In the winter, it’s especially important to ensure that your filters are clean, as they help improve indoor air quality by trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants. Aim to replace your air filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and whether you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home.
5. Inspect and Clean Your Outdoor Unit
If you have a heat pump or an HVAC system that uses an outdoor unit, now is the time to check it for debris such as leaves, dirt, and branches. Clear away any obstructions that could block airflow to ensure that your system runs efficiently.
A blocked outdoor unit can reduce your system’s efficiency, causing it to work harder to heat your home. Taking a few minutes to clean the area around the unit can prevent performance issues throughout the winter.
Conclusion
Preparing your HVAC system for winter doesn’t require a lot of effort, but it can make a big difference in both comfort and energy savings.
By checking your thermostat settings, scheduling a furnace tune-up, sealing any leaks, and maintaining your air filters, you can ensure that your system is ready to keep your home warm and comfortable during Temecula’s cooler months.
If you need help getting your HVAC system ready for winter, Welkin Heating & Air is here to assist. Contact us today to schedule a professional HVAC tune-up or inspection to ensure your system is working efficiently this season.