NV Energy
As fall arrives in cities like Henderson and Henderson in Nevada, many homeowners make mistakes with their air conditioners that can lead to costly repairs or inefficient HVAC systems. To ensure a smooth transition from cooling season to the cooler months of late fall and winter, here's a breakdown of these errors and tips from Nevada Residential Services heating and cooling experts for avoiding them.
1. Forgetting to Adjust Thermostat Settings
Many homeowners keep their thermostat set at the same temperature or settings used during the hot summer months, which can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and wear on the AC system.
How to Avoid: As temperatures cool down in fall, adjust the thermostat settings accordingly. You can set the temperature higher or turn the AC off altogether during the day, and at night when it’s cooler, use natural ventilation if possible. Consider using a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures as the weather changes. This simple changes helps you save energy and keeps your home comfortable.
2. Neglecting to Clean or Replace Air Filters
Air filters that were overworked during the summer are often forgotten in the fall. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and reduce system efficiency, leading to higher energy costs and potential damage. Also
Solution: Replace or clean air filters before fall sets in. Clean filters ensure proper airflow, this is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and ensuring your
HVAC system is running efficiently when you switch to heating. It’s recommended to check filters monthly, especially in dusty or smoky environments like those common in Nevada.
3. Ignoring Fall Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
Fallen leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around the outdoor condenser unit during the fall. Debris such as leaves, dirt, or grass clippings can clog the outdoor unit. This kind of buildup can create a whole bunch of problems: block airflow, reduce system efficiency, and cause system strain.
How to Avoid: Regularly clear away leaves, twigs, and other debris from around your outdoor unit. Trim nearby shrubs and bushes to maintain at least two feet of clearance around the condenser. It’s also a good idea to cover the outdoor unit if it won’t be in use over winter (but only if recommended by the manufacturer). Just make sure it’s properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup.
4. Not Sealing Drafts and Air Leaks
After running the AC for months, some homeowners forget to check their ductwork for blockages, leaks, or dust accumulation. Homeowners in Nevada often overlook sealing air leaks in the fall, which leads to heat loss in the winter and increased heating bills.
Solution: Have your air ducts inspected in the fall to ensure there are no leaks or blockages. Cleaning them helps prevent dust from circulating in your home when you switch to heating. Additionally inspect windows and doors for drafts and leaks, seal any cracks or gaps using weatherstripping, caulk, or insulation. This will prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping, ensuring your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient.
5. Skipping Seasonal HVAC Maintenance
Homeowners often think that because cooler weather is coming, they don’t need to maintain their AC unit after heavy summer use. This can lead to issues like dirt buildup, clogged filters, or even system malfunctions when you least expect them.
How to Avoid: Schedule a maintenance check with a local
HVAC specialist in early fall. This includes cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring your system is ready to rest for the winter. A proper shutdown helps avoid issues when the AC is needed again.
6. Delaying Furnace or Heat Pump Inspections
Many people focus on their air conditioner but neglect preparing their heating systems, like the furnace or heat pump, for the colder months.
Solution: Schedule a professional inspection for your heating system in early fall to ensure it's ready to handle the colder weather. This prevents unexpected breakdowns when you first switch to heating.
Making a Smooth Transition
To make the perfect transition from cooling season to fall and winter:
- Adjust your thermostat settings for cooler weather and take advantage of programmable options.
- Clean or replace air filters regularly for optimal airflow.
- Clear debris from your outdoor unit and cover it if necessary.
- Test your heating system early to ensure it’s working before you need it.
- Seal drafts to maximize energy efficiency.
- Consider humidity control to enhance comfort.
- Schedule end-of-season maintenance to catch any issues and prepare your system for winter.
By addressing these common mistakes and preparing your AC and heating system properly, you'll not only prolong the life of your
