How to Prep Your HVAC System Before Halloween Weather Hits

As Halloween approaches in Memphis, TN, the weather can be as unpredictable as a haunted house. Transitioning your HVAC system from cooling to heating ensures your home stays comfortable, whether you’re carving pumpkins or cozying up for a spooky movie night. At Automatic Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric, we’ve put together a fun, practical checklist with a Memphis twist to prep your HVAC system for the fall season. Follow these steps to keep your system running smoothly before winter’s chill sets in.

Check and Replace Air Filters

Just like keeping the cobwebs out of your Memphis home for Halloween, clean air filters are key to a healthy HVAC system. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder to cool or heat your home, whether it’s a balmy 70°F afternoon or a crisp 50°F evening. Check your filters monthly and replace them every 1-3 months. This simple step boosts efficiency, improves indoor air quality, and prevents your system from getting “spooked” by clogs.

Test Your Heating System

Before the ghosts and goblins hit the streets, test your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s ready for cooler nights. Set your thermostat to heat mode and raise it to 72°F to check if warm air flows evenly. Listen for unusual noises like rattling or banging, which could signal issues needing professional attention.

In Memphis, where temperatures can drop suddenly, testing now prevents surprises when winter arrives. Our team can perform a thorough inspection to keep your system in top shape.

Clear Debris Around Outdoor Units

Fall leaves can pile up faster than candy in a trick-or-treat bag, so clear leaves, twigs, and debris from your outdoor HVAC unit. Ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit to maintain proper airflow. Debris can reduce efficiency or cause damage, especially during windy October days. A quick cleanup keeps your system running smoothly, whether it’s cooling your home at 68°F or preparing for heating season.

Inspect Ducts and Vents

Dusty ducts and blocked vents can haunt your HVAC performance, circulating allergens and reducing efficiency. Check that vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or Halloween decorations. If you notice dust buildup or musty odors, consider professional duct cleaning. In Memphis’ humid fall climate, clean ducts improve air quality and ensure your home stays comfortable as temperatures drop to the 40s°F.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

A professional HVAC tune-up is like a magic potion for your system, ensuring peak performance and safety. Our technicians check components, clean burners, and test for issues like carbon monoxide leaks, critical for safe heating in Memphis winters. Scheduling a tune-up in October, before temperatures fall below freezing, prevents breakdowns and boosts energy efficiency, saving you from costly repairs during the holiday season.

Stay Cozy With Automatic

Don’t let Halloween weather catch your HVAC system off guard in Memphis. Follow this checklist to transition from cooling to heating and keep your home comfortable all season long. For expert help, trust Automatic Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric to ensure your system is ready for anything.

Since 1943, it’s been Automatic in Memphis! Call us today to schedule your HVAC tune-up.