Time to Schedule Your Fall Heating System Check-Up

As the seasons change and our bodies begin to notice the change in temperature, it is a natural reminder to pay attention to our household HVAC systems. When summer and winter actually arrive, contractors seem to be the busiest; so, as the warmth of spring begins, have your cooling system checked and, likewise, as the chill of fall begins, make sure you get the heating system checked. It is always preferable to keep your system maintained, preventing the unnecessary expense of costly repairs. It is also better to not be caught unaware by a potential heating malfunction in the middle of winter’s coldest temperatures. 

As part of your regular residential HVAC system maintenance, have your local HVAC professional check your thermostat settings to make sure that you are comfortable while at home, but also to ensure that you’re saving energy when the home is empty. Your HVAC contractor will tighten all electrical connections and lubricate all moving parts, inspect the drainage of condensate, and check to ensure that your system controls are safe and operating properly. With regards to your heating system, you can expect them to check all connections having to do with gas (or oil) including the burner and its combustion, as well as the heat exchanger; thus, eliminating any potential fire and health hazards while ensuring that your system is safe and efficient. 

Also, if you are currently unaware of the location of the furnace filter, have your HVAC technician show you where it is and how to change it. Once your fall heating check-up is complete, the only thing you’ll have to do is change the furnace filter about once a month to maintain energy efficiency, clean air, and prevent possible system damage.

Air Filter Efficiency

Replacing the air filter on your HVAC system regularly is an excellent way to help keep your system working efficiently and maximizing its lifespan.  The primary purpose of the air filter is to protect the evaporator coil and other components from accumulating a layer of dust, dirt and debris.  A dirty coil cannot transfer heat efficiently which causes the system to work harder to heat and cool your home.  This translates into higher costs and more wear and tear on the system.  In addition to protecting your HVAC system, the air filter can help improve indoor air quality.  Replacing the air filter is an important part of any HVAC system maintenance program.

Air filters are available in different efficiency ratings called MERV which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.  The higher the MERV, the better the filter is at catching smaller airborne particles.  The standard fiberglass air filters that are the original equipment on most HVAC systems typically have a MERV rating of about 1 to 4.  These fiberglass filters do a good job of capturing large dust particles and pet hair, but are not effective at collecting smaller particles, pollen, and other airborne contaminants.

High efficiency pleated filters have MERV ratings from 8 to 12 and can capture much smaller particles including mold spores, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.   It is possible to have too much of a good thing with regard to MERV.  Air filters with a very high MERV will reduce airflow through your system and reduce system efficiency, especially when they are dirty.  They also clog very quickly and should be changed more frequently than standard air filters.

If you choose to go with a high efficiency filter, it may be a good idea to avoid the filters with the highest MERV rating unless you are certain that your system is designed to operate efficiently with the reduced air flow.  A pleated filter with a more modest efficiency rating will do a much better job of protecting your system and reducing airborne contaminates than standard fiberglass filters while having a minimal effect on air flow.