Top 3 Fall Home Maintenance Disasters

Keeping your Boston home in excellent condition requires your regular effort, and some home maintenance tasks should be completed during specific times of the year for the best results.

During the fall months in most areas, Boston homeowners will flip off the air conditioning system and will turn on the heater for the first time.

There are a few common maintenance tasks that typically should be completed during this time for energy efficiency, great indoor air quality and general system maintenance.

However, some of these tasks require skill and the proper equipment, or there could be disastrous consequences.

Cleaning the Air Ducts

Air ducts can become filthy over time, and the fall season is the perfect time to complete this task. Some homeowners have tried to brush their air ducts with a broom or to use a vacuum cleaner to clean their ducts.

This, however, is generally ineffective, and it can even result in the ducts ripping and tearing. For the best results, schedule professional air duct cleaning. This can improve energy efficiency of the heating system in the months to come and can also improve indoor air quality.

Checking the Heater's Connections

Before you turn on your heater for the first time this season, it is wise to check the electrical or gas line connections. Issues with faulty connections can result in an electrical fire, a dangerous gas leak or another similar type of issue.

While some homeowners may opt to complete this task on their own, it is often best to let a trained, knowledgeable HVAC technician inspect the system to ensure that the connections are fully secure.

Maintaining the HVAC System

Annual heater maintenance is recommended by HVAC manufacturers before you turn the heater on for the first time each year. This is a service that gives your system a tune-up, and it includes cleaning of the components as well as replacement of various components that may have become worn out or damaged the previous season.

Annual maintenance should be completed by a licensed, trained HVAC technician in order to avoid unintentionally damaging the system or causing issues that could result in fires, gas leaks or other issues.

You likely will use the heater heavily in the coming months, and you want your heater to be well-maintained for energy efficiency, great indoor air quality and more.

Your heater is a vital component to your comfort and to your home's overall condition, and because of this, it is important to have a trained professional provide the maintenance services you need.

Remember to keep up with a regular maintenance schedule. Call Atlantic Heating & Air at (617) 566-6990 to get your Boston, MA home inspected.