7 Tips to Maximize Comfort and Efficiency

Students are going back to school and new routines are settling in.

The upcoming transition into cooler weather means families will be spending more time indoors. Fall is the perfect time to get ahead on HVAC maintenance and help prevent breakdowns, improve air quality, and keep your energy bills manageable.

Here are 7 smart HVAC tips every homeowner should tackle this season:

1. Replace Your HVAC Filters

Did you know?: A dirty air filter can increase your HVAC system’s energy consumption by up to 15% (U.S. Department of Energy)
If you have a pet, you should be replacing your filter more often!

The quality of the air inside your home becomes even more important during back-to-school season. One of the easiest ways to protect your family’s health and keep your HVAC system running efficiently is to change your air filters regularly. Dust, pet hair, and pollen clog up filters faster than you think restricting airflow. This makes your system work harder, can and lower its efficiency by up to 5% each year. (HomeContractors)

Check your filter monthly and replace it if it looks dirty or hasn’t been changed in the past 1–3 months. Clean filters improve indoor air quality, help your system perform better, and can even lower your energy bills.

2. Clear Outdoor Units and Inspect for Obstructions

Even though your outdoor HVAC unit is built to handle the weather, it still needs regular attention to stay efficient. During the summer, leaves, grass, and debris can build up around it and block airflow. Be sure to clear away any obstructions 2–3 feet around the unit. If the unit looks clogged or dirty, you might need a professional cleaning to keep everything working its best.

3. Reprogram Your Thermostat for New School-Year Schedules

Your family’s routine is likely to change with school back in session. If your house is empty most of the day, you don’t need to keep it at peak comfort levels all the time. You can adjust your smart thermostat settings to match your new schedule and help cut energy use without sacrificing comfort. Taking advantage of geofencing features on your app can also notify the unit to make adjustments if you’re a certain distance away from home. (Duke Energy)

4. Inspect Your Ductwork for Leaks and Blockages

Your HVAC system moves air through a network of ducts, but your system has to work extra hard if those ducts are leaking or blocked. Homes with duct leaks, holes, or poor connections lose 20-30% of conditioned air. (U.S. Department of Energy) If you’re noticing hot and cold spots in your home or higher utility bills, crisp fall temperatures are great for inspecting ducts in attics, basements, or crawl spaces. Look for disconnected joints, crushed flex ducts, or dust buildup around vents. Hiring a pro to take a look and repair the system can make a big difference in comfort.

5. Schedule Your Fall HVAC Tune-Up Before Cold Weather Surprises You

Did you know?: The best months to schedule an HVAC service are during September and October.

A fall HVAC tune-up can be one of the best things you can do before the weather starts getting cooler. Getting ahead and scheduling an inspection for September makes sure you’re not competing for an availability during peak season and assures your furnace or heat pump is ready for the colder months. By getting regular HVAC maintenance, you can improve your system’s efficiency by up to 30%. (U.S. Department of Energy) Not only does the technician inspect airflow, but also refrigerant levels, electrical components, and more. Catching small issues early can give you a significantly better chance at avoiding an emergency down the road.

6. Watch for Warning Signs: Noisy Operation, Hot/Cold Spots, or Spiking Bills

Get in the habit of listening to your HVAC system when it switches from cooling to heating. Strange sounds, sights, smells, and behaviors could mean a part is wearing out. If your energy bills have been climbing, but your usage hasn’t changed, your system might be struggling to work like it used to. These are all signs it’s time to call in a professional.

Want to learn more about potential red flags your system might be trying to send you? We have a blog post on that!

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7. Plan Ahead for HVAC Upgrades

Did you know?: HVAC upgrades can pay you back.
Between lower energy bills, repair savings, and federal tax incentives, a new system can often pay for itself in a few years.

If your system is over 12 years old or still using R-22 refrigerant, you may be paying more than you need to. Older units are not only less efficient, but require more frequent repairs and often use outdated refrigerants. New systems, like the ArcticFlex heat pump, use modern inverter technology and eco-friendly refrigerants like R-454B to provide consistent comfort and lower energy bills. Depending on the model, you could even qualify for federal rebates or tax incentives, which can save you thousands.

*The federal tax incentives will not be available after December 2025*

Don’t Let HVAC Surprise You Like A School Project That’s Due Tomorrow!

Fall is the best time of the year to get your HVAC serviced. Not only do you not have to worry about scheduling during peak season, but it’s also the perfect time to assure your heating will work seamlessly before you start running it 24/7 during winter.

You can save yourself from the headache of having to remember to schedule semi-annual maintenance checks by signing up for our Comfort Plan. We’ll help catch small issues early to prevent costly breakdowns and improve energy efficiency. Even if your system fails, you’ll receive priority service any day of the week and receive a 15% discount on repairs, as well as a discount on any overtime rates. The plan also gives you a 5% discount on any indoor air quality add-ons and duct cleaning services.

From easy filter swaps to bigger upgrade conversations, taking care of your system now sets you up for a stress-free season ahead.

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Don’t wait until your HVAC system gives out in the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

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