As summer begins to wind down in Washington state, it’s easy to shift your focus from the heat to thoughts of crisp fall mornings and cooler weather ahead. But before you do, don’t forget your HVAC system! Late summer is a great time to give your AC or heat pump a little attention, both to keep it running smoothly through the last warm days and to prepare it for the changing seasons ahead.
Here’s what to know about late-summer HVAC maintenance in Olympia, WA.
End-of-Summer Check-In for Your Cooling System
Even if your AC or heat pump seems to be running fine, now’s the time to take a closer look. Start by checking the air filter. A clogged filter reduces airflow and forces your system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills and more wear and tear. If you haven’t changed your filter recently, swap it out: you’ll immediately improve efficiency and indoor air quality.
Next, take a look outside. Your air conditioner or heat pump’s outdoor unit needs clear space around it to function properly. Trim back plants, remove leaves or debris, and gently hose off any dust or dirt on the coils. Keeping these components clean ensures good heat exchange and helps the system cool your home more effectively.
Also, be alert for signs of trouble. Strange noises, weak airflow, unexpected increases in your utility bills, or difficulty maintaining temperature could all be signs something’s not quite right. Tackling small problems now means fewer headaches—and lower repair costs—later on.
Heat Pump vs. AC Maintenance
If you have a heat pump instead of a traditional air conditioner, you’ll want to think ahead to the cooler months. Unlike AC units, heat pumps operate year-round, switching between cooling in the summer and heating in the winter. That means they need maintenance at least twice a year: once in the spring or summer and again in the fall.
During summer use, your heat pump collects dust, moisture, and wear just like an AC system. Cleaning or changing the filter, checking coils, and clearing outdoor debris are all essential. But unlike a standalone AC unit, your heat pump also needs to be inspected for its heating components to make sure it’s ready for the colder season ahead.
Schedule Fall HVAC Maintenance Now
Late summer is the perfect time to book your fall HVAC maintenance. Once the weather changes, service schedules get busy, so beat the rush! Whether you have a heat pump, a furnace, or a hybrid system, it’s important to have it inspected and tuned up before the first chilly night arrives.
Professional maintenance helps catch wear and tear before it becomes a breakdown. It also ensures that your system is running efficiently, keeping your home comfortable without inflating your energy bills.
Stay Comfortable Year-Round
Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable in every season. With a little proactive care at the end of summer, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re ready for whatever weather comes next. Our team is here to help with expert service and seasonal tune-ups—give us a call today and we’ll help keep your system in top shape!
Your comfort is our business at Americool Heating & Air Conditioning! Contact us today for expert HVAC maintenance in Olympia, WA.