As the leaves change and the temperature drops in Buffalo, NY, it’s important to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the upcoming winter. Regular fall maintenance for your HVAC can prevent breakdowns and ensure your system is operating efficiently throughout the cold seasons.
Local HVAC companies like Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can provide professional “check-ups” to assess your system’s condition and deal with possible issues before the cold weather sets in.
Let’s cover some key HVAC tips for fall — including preparing your HVAC system for the fall season, what common problems you might encounter, how to prevent these issues, and more!
Common Fall HVAC Issues in Buffalo, NY
Buffalo’s crisp fall weather may be beautiful but it can also bring some common HVAC issues that many homeowners face during this time of the season. With temperatures dropping and systems working harder, it’s important to know what to look out for to keep your home warm and your energy bills manageable.
Clogged Air Filters
One of the most common air handler problems in the fall is clogged air filters. When your air filter gets dirty, symptoms of clogged air filters crop up and restrict your HVAC’s airflow. This makes your system work harder to heat your home, which can lead to reduced efficiency and higher energy bills.
Checking and Replacing Your Air Filter
Replacing your air filter is a simple task that you can do yourself. Here’s how:
- Locate your air filter. Your air filter is usually located near your furnace or air handler.
- Turn off your HVAC system. Before removing the filter, turn off your furnace or air conditioner.
- Remove the filter. Carefully remove the filter from its housing.
- Inspect the filter. Hold the filter up to a light source to check for dirt and debris. If the filter is heavily clogged, it needs to be replaced.
- Replace the filter. Install a new air filter in the same orientation as the old one. Take careful note of how it’s installed when you remove it!
- Turn on your HVAC system. Turn your system back on and make sure it’s running smoothly.
Homeowners should check their filters at least once a month during the fall and replace them every 1-3 months, especially with frequent heating use. If you have pets, your filter is likely to collect more debris, so keep that in mind when deciding how often to replace your filter.
Thermostat Issues
Thermostats are the brains of your HVAC system, controlling when your furnace turns on and off. If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can lead to uncomfortable temperatures and higher energy bills.
Common Thermostat Malfunctions
Incorrect readings. Your thermostat may be displaying an inaccurate temperature, causing your furnace to turn on or off at the wrong times.
Failure to maintain the set temperature. Your thermostat may not be able to maintain the temperature you’ve set, leading to fluctuations in your home’s temperature.
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
- Check the batteries. If your thermostat uses batteries, make sure they are fresh and properly installed.
- Reset the thermostat. Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve minor issues. Check your manual for instructions on a hard reset of your thermostat.
- Check for loose wires. Inspect the wiring to ensure all connections are secure.
For more complicated problems like faulty wiring or outdated models, it’s best to contact a professional like Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for assistance.
Dirty Furnace Burners
Dirty furnace burners can greatly reduce your heating system’s efficiency and even lead to complete system failure. If your furnace burners are dirty, they may not be able to ignite properly, resulting in incomplete combustion. This can produce strange smells or noises and can also create a safety hazard.
Signs of Dirty Burners:
- Strange smells. If you notice a burning odor or a musty smell coming from your furnace, it could be a sign of dirty burners.
- Unusual noises. Listen for unusual noises coming from your furnace, such as popping, clicking, or rattling sounds.
- Reduced heating. If your home is not heating up as efficiently as it used to, it could be a sign of dirty burners.
Inspecting Your Furnace Burners
While it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your furnace burners, you can also perform a basic inspection yourself. Here’s how to prepare your furnace for the fall:
- Turn off your furnace. Before inspecting your burners, turn off your furnace and disconnect the power.
- Remove the access panel. Locate the access panel to your furnace and remove it.
- Inspect the burners. Look for signs of soot, carbon buildup, or other debris on the burners.
- Clean the burners. If the burners are dirty, here’s how to clean furnace burners: you can try cleaning them with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner. However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid damaging the burners.
It’s important to have a professional inspect and clean the burners to make sure they’re working properly and safely.
Ductwork Leaks
Ductwork leaks can be a major energy drain in your home, leading to higher heating bills and reduced comfort. When air leaks from your ducts, your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. It’s a big waste of energy!
How to Check Ductwork for Leaks & Signs to Look Out For:
- Drafts. Feel for drafts around vents or near your furnace. If you notice cold air coming in, it could indicate a leak in your ductwork.
- Uneven heating. If you notice that some rooms in your home are warmer or colder than others, you might have ductwork problems on your hands.
- High energy bills. If your energy bills are unusually high, it could be due to air leaks in your ductwork.
A simple way to test for ductwork leaks is to use a smoke test. Light a stick of incense and hold it near the vents. If the smoke is pulled into the vents, it indicates a leak.
Sometimes leaks are small and not easy to locate, but HVAC technicians have specialized diagnostic tools to identify leaks that aren’t visible to the eye. Major leaks should also be fixed by an HVAC technician to make sure your system operates efficiently.
Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
Older HVAC systems often have pilot lights that need to be relit periodically. If your pilot light keeps going out, it can be frustrating and can lead to heating issues.
Common Causes of Pilot Light Problems
- Drafts. Cold drafts can blow out the pilot light, especially if your furnace is located in a drafty area.
- Dirty components. Dust and debris can accumulate on the pilot light or burner, preventing it from igniting properly.
- Low gas pressure. If your gas pressure is low, it can affect the pilot light’s ability to stay lit.
How to Relight a Pilot Light
If your pilot light has gone out, you can usually relight it yourself. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off the gas. Locate the gas valve to your furnace and turn it off.
- Remove the access panel. Remove the access panel to expose the pilot light.
- Relight the pilot. Use a long match or lighter to relight the pilot flame. Hold the flame near the pilot light until it ignites.
- Hold the flame. Hold the flame for a few minutes to allow the pilot light to reheat.
- Turn on the gas. Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas valve back on.
Safety Precautions:
- Never attempt to relight a pilot light if you smell gas. If you detect a gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company.Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting your pilot light.
- If you’re unsure about how to relight your pilot light, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician.
Strange Noises from Your HVAC System
Hearing unusual noises coming from your HVAC system can be alarming. However, many times, these noises are a sign of a minor issue that can be easily resolved. Here are some common noises and what they might indicate:
- Banging and rattling. This could be a sign of loose components, such as ducts or pipes. It could also indicate a problem with your blower or heat exchanger.
- Whistling. Can be a sign of air leaks in your ductwork or a problem with your blower motor.
- Screeching or squealing. These noises often indicate a problem with your blower motor or fan belt.
- Gurgling or bubbling. Could be a sign of a clogged drain or a refrigerant leak.
If you hear any of these noises, it’s a good idea to call a technician to diagnose the problem.
Clogged Drains
Clogged condensate drains can cause a variety of problems, including water damage, reduced HVAC efficiency, and unpleasant odors.
How to Prevent Clogged Drains
- Regular checks. Inspect your condensate drain regularly for signs of clogs, such as water pooling around your HVAC unit.
- Cleaning. Clean your condensate drain with a drain snake or a brush to remove any debris buildup.
- Maintain a proper slope. Make sure your condensate drain has a proper slope to allow water to flow freely.
If you’re unsure how to fix clogged drains, a professional can clear the drain and ensure everything is running smoothly.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is a crucial component of your HVAC system. It’s responsible for transferring heat. If your HVAC system is leaking refrigerant, it can lead to reduced cooling or heating efficiency, increased energy bills, and even damage to your system.
Signs of a Refrigerant Leak
- Warm air blowing. Your HVAC system is blowing warm air instead of cool air.
- Hissing noises. You may hear hissing noises coming from your HVAC unit.
- Ice buildup. You might notice ice forming on your outdoor HVAC unit.
Due to health and safety risks, refrigerant leaks should always be handled by a certified HVAC technician.
How to Prevent Fall HVAC Issues with Regular Maintenance
To keep your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the fall and winter, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. Here are some tips you can follow:
- Clean air vents. Regularly clean your air vents to remove dust and debris, which can reduce airflow and efficiency.
- Replace the air filter. Air filters should be replaced every one to three months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
- Inspect ductwork. Check for any signs of damage or leaks in your ductwork, as these can lead to energy loss and reduced efficiency.
- Seal leaks. Seal any leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork to prevent cold air from entering your home.
- Protect outdoor units. Cover your outdoor HVAC unit to protect it from the elements and prevent snow or ice buildup.
- Schedule an annual tune-up. Have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system and perform any necessary fall maintenance for your HVAC before the cold weather sets in.
How Buffalo’s Weather Impacts HVAC Performance
Buffalo’s harsh winters can put a strain on your HVAC system. The cold, windy, and sometimes wet weather can make common HVAC issues worse — think frozen pipes, clogged drains, and reduced efficiency.
When to Call a Professional for Serious HVAC Issues
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician:
- Strange noises
- Weak airflow
- Unexplained increases in utility bills
- Frequent breakdowns
Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your trusted partner for all your HVAC needs in Buffalo and Western New York. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any HVAC issues you may encounter.
The Benefits of Hiring Local Plumbing and HVAC Professionals
When it comes to HVAC services in Buffalo, it’s important to choose a local company that understands the unique challenges of our climate. By working with a local HVAC professional, you can benefit from:
- Personalized service. Local companies often have a better understanding of your specific needs and can provide tailored solutions.
- Familiarity with local weather patterns. Local HVAC experts are familiar with Buffalo’s harsh winters and can provide recommendations for maintaining your system in extreme weather conditions.
- Quick response times. In case of emergency, local companies can typically respond more quickly than national chains.
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait Until Winter to Fix HVAC Problems!
By following these tips and scheduling regular fall heating maintenance, you can help make sure that your HVAC system is running efficiently and reliably throughout the fall and winter, preventing HVAC failure and expensive repairs.Contact Cellino Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today at (716) 557-1222 to schedule a professional HVAC inspection or tune-up. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service and keeping your home comfortable year-round.
