As we approach the season, many people anticipate the change the season brings. The transforming leaves and gradual decrease in temperature are elements that most homeowners look forward to as they prepare their home and their spirits for the fall season.
Speaking of leaves, while shades of gold, copper, and red are appealing hues that indicate the start of the harvest season, foliage isn’t always as welcoming as you would think. Surprisingly, fallen leaves can be the catalyst for significant problems in heat and air conditioning equipment.
In this article, you’ll discover how autumn’s fallen leaves can affect your HVAC system. Continue reading to learn more!
HVAC Issue's
Like most other yard debris, fallen foliage can pose a hazard to your HVAC equipment. Leaves can accumulate within the unit and affect its compressor, resulting in a less efficient operation. This blockage then prompts the system to work harder at regulating air temperatures and shortening your equipment’s life span.
As a result, you can expect an increase in utility bills; you can also expect your home’s interior to be colder than usual.
The Solution
Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce the risk of foliage damaging your equipment. You can remove debris from your unit; this can protect the system’s compressor, resulting in a more efficient operation that lasts all season.
Consider cleaning the walls to prevent grime accumulation that can also affect your HVAC’s performance. Avoid planting plants, trees, and shrubs too close to your HVAC; you’ll want to maintain a three-foot clearance around the unit at all times.
Next Steps
While autumn’s fallen leaves are appealing and exude a specific aesthetic, these parts of nature can affect your HVAC system in a significant way. For these reasons, you’ll want to diligently remove debris in and around the unit to ensure that your equipment continues to function at optimal performance.
Fall maintenance is an essential part of owning an HVAC unit. After clearing debris around your system, replace your filter with one of our Flanders Naturalaire filters from Remember The Filter. Our products are high-quality and can protect your home from fall allergens and contaminants so you can enjoy the season.
