Common HVAC Problems in Autumn & How to Fix Them

Common HVAC Problems in Autumn & How to Fix Them

Fall has officially arrived, and most Oregonians are looking forward to the cooler days and nights. That will mean there will be less reliance on cooling systems, and it will be time to start thinking about using the heat instead. To make sure you don’t run into any unexpected issues, check out these common HVAC problems that happen in the autumn and learn how to fix them.

Malfunctioning Thermostat:
If you go to turn on your HVAC system and it doesn’t start up right away, it might not be a problem with your furnace. Instead, it could be a thermostat issue – especially if it’s an older model. If you’ve checked your owner’s manual and done everything to get it working, it might be time to replace it with a new, programmable thermostat. This is an affordable product that works alongside any existing HVAC system. The best part: you can program it to turn up or down and it will adjust on its own – even when you’re not home. Programmable thermostats save homeowners a lot of energy each year and are an environmentally conscious solution.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filters:
The change of season is a great time to check the air filters in your furnace system or ductless heat pump. These filters play a huge role in the functioning of the machine. In fact, they’re the first line of defense against dust, pollen, debris, dirt, and other harmful bacteria or other elements that circulate through the air. We recommend cleaning or replacing your filter every other month, or more often if you have a home with pets or smokers. Dirty or clogged filters can also cause the machine to work harder than necessary. This puts extra wear and tear on it and could cause problems down the road. Set a reminder this autumn to check your filters – it’s an easy maintenance task that has great benefits!

Unusual Smells or Noises:
If your heating system hasn’t been turned on in a while, it might take a minute to get going, but if you notice any prolonged sounds or smells, turn it off. These could be signs of a bigger problem that may need professional repair. If you continue to use the system when you hear or smell something unusual, you could be causing even more damage without knowing it. So, stop usage and call our experts at Specialty Heating & Cooling so we can get things up and running quickly for you.

Addressing these common HVAC issues ensures your system runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently all season long. Simple maintenance steps can make a big difference! And if problems arise, our trusted team at Specialty Heating & Cooling is here to help keep your home comfortable as the temperatures start to cool down. Whether you need a tune-up, a repair, or a full system replacement, we’re here to help. Contact us today!