Arizona is mostly known for its sweltering summers, but anyone from Wickenburg knows that our winters can drop down to a chilly 38°F. That’s enough to have our furnaces cranked and the windows shut tight! As the seasons start to shift and the temperatures drop, make sure your HVAC system is prepared with these 3 simple tips:

Tidy Up the System Components

Before the cooler temperatures really hit, it’s always a good idea to perform a visual check of all the visible components of your HVAC and perform some minor maintenance.  

• Change Your HVAC Filters. Ideally, this should be done every 3 months. So if you haven’t changed your filter since spring, you’re overdue for a fresh one.
• Check the Outdoor Unit. Your condenser unit has been working hard all summer long, it’s time to do a walkaround before it’s winter hibernation. Make sure it is clear of debris or visible damage.
• Clear Up Key Areas. Vents, registers, and access to the furnace should be clean and clear. This allows for easy access as well as ensuring airflow and circulation aren’t blocked. 

Make the Switch from Cooling to Heating

As temperatures dip, you’ll need to switch your system from your air conditioner to your furnace. This is a relatively simple process but taking these steps will reduce the strain on your HVAC.

1. Make sure your thermostat is set to AUTO and not ON. Then let your unit complete its cycle.
2. Once your air conditioner switches itself off, turn the thermostat to OFF and leave it for 5 minutes. This gives the refrigerant time to return to its starting pressure. Otherwise, you can lock up the compressor and you’ll be needing repairs come springtime. 
3. After 5 minutes have passed, change your thermostat from cooling to heat and turn it back on. 

Schedule an Inspection

Lastly, the changing of the seasons is the perfect opportunity to have your HVAC system inspected and maintenanced by a professional. They can pinpoint any issues with your air conditioner that may have cropped up in the summer and repair any components in your furnace before they turn into big and expensive problems later in the season. You may also want to consider having your ducts cleaned to give the passageways of your HVAC a fresh start. 

The cold weather doesn’t last forever in Arizona, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need to prepare our homes! If you’re due for an inspection or maintenance appointment and live in the Wickenburg or Surprise area, contact our team of experts to book an appointment today!