We’re saying goodbye to the hot weather. Some of you may begrudgingly dig your sweatshirts out of storage, while others have spent days trying to determine which hoodie will go best with your first pumpkin spice latte of the season. Regardless of how fall makes you feel, it’s coming—and winter is on its heels. Three Rivers Heating & Cooling has some tips for you that give you the chance to enjoy the fall and keep your home cozy until next spring. Along with arranging your ongoing air conditioner service from Three Rivers Heating & Cooling, use this checklist to prepare for the change in season.
Take Care of Your Air Filter.
Your AC worked hard for you through the hot Portland summer. Before you give your AC time off for the cooler months, check your air filter and exchange it if it’s dirty. This will help your air conditioner operate more efficiently and keep dust and pollutants from traveling through your home as the seasons change.
Let Some Fresh Air In.
Now that the temps are decreasing, open the windows and enhance your indoor air quality. The air within your house can be several times more polluted than outdoor air, so take this opportunity to bring in fresh air before winter’s chill sets in.
Be Sure Vents and Registers are Clear.
Sometimes furniture gets moved around as you move from outdoor living in the nice weather to being inside more as the days get cooler and shorter. Make sure none of your vents or registers are blocked as you rearrange. This will make it more difficult for your HVAC system to do its jobs and could cause an unwelcomed hike in your energy costs.
Check for Air Leaks.
The heat of summer can take a toll on weather-stripping. Look around your windows and doors for leaks that could allow heated air out of your home this winter. Air leaks are responsible for reducing heating efficiency and driving up your heating bills. Halt leaks by replacing caulking and weather-stripping where needed.
Schedule a Furnace Checkup.
Once your AC is ready to take a break, it’s time to take care of your winter workhorse: your furnace. Call Three Rivers Heating & Cooling to do a preventive maintenance checkup. We’ll make sure your furnace is clean and running smoothly before winter rolls in. During your preventive maintenance, we’ll also detect and let you know what needs to be done to fix any potential challenges that may come up when your furnace is working full-time.
Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detector.
Before heating season kicks off, test your carbon monoxide detector. It is beneficial to make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are operating properly and have a fresh set of batteries installed.
Once this simple checklist is finished, you can relax and take in all the beauty and fun that fall brings. Call Three Rivers Heating & Cooling and we’ll take care of some of this checklist for you. Together, we’ll ensure you head into winter with no worries about staying warm and cozy. You can call us at 503-213-4433.