Getting Ahead on Fall Comfort

Preparing your HVAC system to transition from summer to fall mode isn’t just about comfort- it’s about enhancing performance, increasing efficiency, and avoiding headaches later on as temperatures change. Simple tasks like cleaning the outdoor unit, replacing dirty filters, and programming your thermostat can make a big impact.

A system that’s been properly maintained doesn’t have to work as hard, which means fewer repairs and better reliability all season long. Shifting your HVAC system into heating mode without preparation can strain it, especially after months of hard summer use in South Georgia.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor AC unit has most likely been running non-stop for several months in the heatwaves we have had as well as the general Georgia heat. Leaves, dirt, grass clippings, and other debris can easily build up around it during summer. Before switching to heat, it’s smart to tidy that area.

Here’s a quick checklist for inspecting your outdoor unit:

1. Turn off power to the unit so you can safely check it.
2. Remove any built-up leaves, branches, or trash that might be lodged around the base.
3. Gently rinse the outside coils with a hose to wash away dirt. Just avoid using high pressure.
4. Look for signs of damage like bent fins or rust. If anything looks off, it may be time for a service teach to check it out.

If you have not had maintenance performed by Hale’s Heating and Air or yourself, the leftover grime on your unit can trap moisture or block airflow, and that can lead to bigger issues. For example, if your AC compressor casing has cracked or become damaged from storm debris, it might go unnoticed until your heating system tries to run, only to trip a fuse or cause system strain. Giving it a good inspection before the season changes can help you catch potential problems early.

Replace Air Filters

Your AC filter has likely picked up a lot of dust and debris during the summer season. Whether you’ve been running the AC nonstop or sparingly, it’s common for filters to clog with pollen, dust, pet hair, and other debris, especially during high-usage months.

Putting in a fresh filter is a simple step that helps in more ways than one. Clean filters:

1. Improve airflow throughout your HVAC system
2. Help your heating system work more efficiently
3. Cut down on indoor dust and allergens
4. Lower the chances of overheating or system stress

To check your filter, remove the cover and look at its surface. If the filter looks dark or is covered in visible dust, it’s time to toss it and replace it with a new one. When in doubt, most filters should be changed every one to three months, but heavy summer use or indoor pets can affect that timeline and you will need to change them more frequently.

Skipping this step can lead to all kinds of small problems that stack up quickly. Dirty filters make it harder for your system to push air through, which forces it to work harder and use more energy. That can mean a weakening AC toward the end of summer and a sluggish heater as temps drop. A clean filter is one of the easiest ways to keep things running smooth.

Check the Thermostat Settings

When the seasons change, your home’s needs change, too, including how you set your thermostat. Some people leave their thermostat in cooling mode while the weather still flips between warm afternoons and chilly mornings. But waiting too long to switch can lead to some uneven comfort across your home.

Here’s what to check on your thermostat:

1. Make sure it’s set to heat before colder days arrive.
2. Adjust the temperature to something comfortable for fall. Somewhere in the high 60s to low 70s is a good starting point.
3. If you’re using a programmable thermostat, take a minute to update your schedule so you’re not heating the house when no one’s home.

A lot of people forget to do this step, thinking it doesn’t matter until it gets really cold. But thermostat settings control how and when your HVAC system activates. Getting them set correctly now helps avoid last-minute surprises when those mornings start to dip into sweater weather territory.

Schedule a Professional HVAC Maintenance Check

Taking care of your HVAC system now is one of those small seasonal habits that pays off in a big way. When your home stays warm without trouble and your energy bill stays stable, you’ll be glad you took the time. Fall in South Georgia can be beautiful. Make it comfortable, too. Hale’s Heating and Air offers a clean and service program. We will check your system to make sure everything is running as it should. Doing this twice a year, before summer and before fall, is the best way to care for your unit and keep it running properly all year long.

As the fall season approaches, keeping your HVAC system in top shape becomes even more important. Let Hale’s Heating and Air help you maintain a comfortable home efficiently. Our experienced team is ready to ensure your system is prepared for the cooler months ahead.