How to Prep Your Home for Cooler Fall Temperatures

September 08, 2017

We’re saying goodbye to the summer months. Some of you may begrudgingly drag your winter clothes out of storage, while others have spent weeks trying to figure out which hoodie will go best with your first pumpkin spice latte of the season. Regardless of how you approach fall, it’s on its way—and winter is on its heels. Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. has several tips for you that will allow you to enjoy the fall and keep your space cozy until next spring. Along with scheduling your routine air conditioner service from Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc., 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 West Columbia summer. Before you give your AC a vacation for the colder months, check your air filter and exchange it if it’s dirty. This will help your air conditioner run 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, take the opportunity to open the windows and improve your indoor air quality. The air inside your home can be several times more polluted than outdoor air, so take this time to get some fresh air before winter’s chill arrives.

Be Sure Vents and Registers are Clear.
Sometimes furniture gets shifted around as you move from outdoor living in the summer to being inside more as the days get cooler and shorter. Ensure that none of your vents or registers are blocked as you rearrange. This will make it harder for your HVAC system to perform effectively and could cause an unwelcomed bump in your utility costs.

Check for Air Leaks.
The heat of summer can be hard on weather-stripping. Check around your windows and doors for leaks that could end up allowing heated air out of your home this winter. Air leaks are responsible for reducing heating efficiency and adding costs your heating bills. Stop leaks by replacing caulking and weather-stripping where needed.

Schedule a Furnace Checkup.
Once your AC is ready to take a rest, it’s time to focus on your winter workhorse: your furnace. Call Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. to schedule a preventive maintenance checkup. We’ll be sure your furnace is clean and working 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 problems 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 worth it 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 complete, you can relax and take in all the beauty and fun that fall offers. Contact Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. and we’ll handle some of this checklist for you. Together, we’ll ensure you head into winter with no concerns about staying warm and cozy. You can contact us at 803-265-4208.