How to Get Your HVAC System Ready for Winter

Winter is almost here and you know what that means – it’s time to start prepping your HVAC system for the season ahead! While we don’t really see snow in Hawaii, we do technically have a winter season that is cooler and wet. Because of this, it is important to be prepared for changes to your HVAC system.

Not sure how to prepare your HVAC system for the rainy weather to come? Below, we’ll share some of our must-dos when it comes to getting your HVAC system ready for Hawaii’s winter.

Prepping your HVAC system

There are plenty of things that you can do to prepare your HVAC system, and your entire home, for the winter season in Hawaii. Below are some tasks that every homeowner should add to their to-do lists as the weather cools off and the rainy season settles in.

Change the filter

The first step on your HVAC system winterization list – change the filter. Air filters are meant to clean out the bacteria and particles floating through the air. They should be replaced every 1-3 months depending on the size of the home, the pets living there, and the general sensitivity of the occupants to air particles. Since changes in season can affect allergies and air quality, it’s a great idea to change the air filter as you prepare for winter.

Not sure where to get a replacement filter, or what kind? No problem! Check the side of your current filter for the size and type, then head to the store and grab a few extras. For further details on air filters and how to replace them, click here. 

Test the thermostat

To prepare for the winter months, you should also test the thermostat on your HVAC system. Although we don’t get too cold in Hawaii, it’s important to be prepared for chillier than normal temps. Especially if you’re living in higher elevations. 

If your thermostat doesn’t have a “test” setting, you can create your own test. On a cool morning, set the thermostat to a temperature that is several degrees lower than the room temperature. If the thermostat doesn’t kick on within a few seconds, the unit needs to be looked at by a professional because it may not be functioning properly. 

Check the vents

The cooler months are a perfect time to check the vents in your HVAC system for any signs of damage. If they have any cracks, dents, or blockages in them, the HVAC system won’t be able to function properly. Therefore, it’s important that you look at them to check for these signs. 

The best way to do it is to take a flashlight and simply look around the venting for any signs of damage or weakening. Keep an eye out for any moisture or rust too! These are all issues that should be discussed with an HVAC professional. 

Additionally, call an HVAC technician if you suspect blockages. They can do a thorough examination of your entire unit, including the duct work, to make sure everything is working properly. 

Run a sound check

When you look your vents over with a fine-tooth comb, you might also want to run a sound check on the HVAC system. No, we don’t mean that you should hook up your phone and blast music through the home. Although you can if you want! 

By sound check, we mean that you should turn on the unit and listen for any unusual sounds like banging, rattling, or squeaking. Make sure that other household sounds are kept to a minimum at this time, like the TV and kitchen appliances, so that you can hear sounds little or big. Make a note of anything that sounds out of the ordinary and discuss it with an HVAC technician.

Protect your exterior unit

When preparing for winter, don’t forget about your exterior unit. Air conditioning units are usually placed on the side of a home and although they don’t get much thought, their protection is important in bad weather.

With cooler temps and rain expected during the winter in Hawaii, it’s important to keep your HVAC unit as protected as possible. Think about purchasing a cover to keep excess water off of it, or perhaps build a platform for it to raise it off the ground. These simple steps can help keep your HVAC unit protected from bad weather and in optimal condition for many years.

Schedule an inspection

Still not sure how to prepare your HVAC unit for winter? No problem. That’s what we’re here for! At AIRPRO Indoor Air Solutions, we pride ourselves on exceptional HVAC services. If you aren’t sure what you should be looking for, or you’re concerned that something may be wrong with your HVAC unit, we can take a look.
Don’t wait any longer! Give us a call today to schedule your HVAC appointment. We can make sure everything is in perfect shape before the winter season rolls around.