Despite the seemingly omnipresence of pumpkin spice flavorings, Fall has hardly even begun. Yet, many experts are saying that now is the time to start worrying about cleaning air conditioners, replacing residential HVAC air filters, and doing any general repairs or insulating to their HVAC ducts. Paying proper attention to a home’s air duct system is an easy, affordable way to not only prepare for a healthier, energy-efficient winter, but to prepare the home’s air systems for the coming year.

Here are a few things homeowners should take care of before winter’s cold sets in properly.

Cleaning.

Routine HVAC cleaning with a vacuum is pretty important, but you don’t have to do it on a regular basis. Right around this time of the year and in Spring is usually enough. However, you’d be wise to at least check up on your system to see if there are certain health hazards that might warrant an immediate HVAC cleaning. First, homeowners need to start HVAC cleaning quickly if there’s mold inside the ducts, as its spores can cause asthma, allergies, and other breathing problems. Secondly, homeowners need to do some thorough HVAC cleaning if they suspect that rodents or vermin have gotten into the ducts and died.

Insulating.

You may want to consider insulating your HVAC ducts this winter if the temperature around your HVAC system is much colder or hotter than the air inside of it. That way, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work nearly as hard to keep your home warm or cool.

Repairing.

Your ducts may be leaking because there’s either holes in the pipes, or because the pipes are poorly connected. Such leaks may cause your system’s heating and cooling ability to decrease by as much as 20%, while simultaneously increasing greenhouse gas emissions. To check for leaks, you should not only do a visual inspection, but also turn your thermostat to “on” as opposed to “automatic.” That way, you can also feel for escaping air. If you do find a leak, make sure it gets repaired immediately.

Doing any necessary HVAC cleaning and maintenance not only allows a home to be heated more efficiently, but also mitigates any problems that may occur next season. Basically, doing any HVAC cleaning now lets homeowners avoid fixing air conditioners next summer. Isn’t that reason enough to get on top of things?

If you have any questions about HVAC cleaning, feel free to ask in the comments. More.