When the seasons shift in Gresham, Oregon, homeowners often find themselves adjusting to new temperatures and weather conditions. From chilly winters to warm, dry summers, every season puts different demands on your HVAC system. Proper HVAC preparation ensures your heating and cooling units operate efficiently, last longer, and keep your home comfortable year-round. Whether you’re transitioning from heating to cooling or vice versa, preparing your HVAC system for seasonal changes is an important part of home maintenance.
In this guide, we’ll discuss how to prepare your HVAC system for each season, what maintenance tasks you should prioritize, and when it’s time to call a professional like FTM Heating and Cooling in Gresham, OR, for expert HVAC services.
Why Preparing Your HVAC System for Seasonal Changes Matters
Your HVAC system works hard to maintain indoor comfort, but like any mechanical system, it needs care and attention. When you don’t prepare your HVAC system for seasonal shifts, you risk performance issues, higher energy bills, and unexpected breakdowns.
Here’s why proper HVAC preparation in Gresham is crucial:
- Efficiency – Seasonal maintenance helps your system run smoothly and use less energy.
- Longevity – Routine checks and cleaning reduce strain on parts, extending the life of your equipment.
- Comfort – A properly maintained HVAC system provides even heating or cooling throughout your home.
- Cost Savings – Preventive maintenance can reduce costly repairs or premature replacement.
Gresham’s variable weather means your system switches between heating and cooling modes throughout the year. Taking time to prepare for these transitions ensures you’re not caught off guard when temperatures suddenly rise or drop.
Spring and Summer: Getting Your Cooling System Ready
As the days in Gresham start to warm up, your air conditioner or heat pump becomes essential for keeping your home comfortable. Before summer arrives, here are key steps to ensure your cooling system performs efficiently:
Replace or Clean Air Filters
Clogged filters impede airflow, causing your system to operate inefficiently and with increased effort. Replace or clean your HVAC filters every one to three months, depending on usage and whether you have pets or allergies.
Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
Clear debris, leaves, or dirt around your condenser unit. A clean outdoor unit improves airflow and cooling efficiency. Trim back vegetation at least two feet away from the unit.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant can reduce cooling capacity and damage your compressor. A professional technician from FTM Heating and Cooling can inspect and top up refrigerant levels as needed.
Test Thermostat Functionality
Ensure your thermostat is working correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to manage temperature changes efficiently.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Before the heat of summer sets in, book an HVAC system tune-up. Our technicians at FTM Heating and Cooling will inspect components, check for leaks, clean coils, and make adjustments to maximize system performance.
Preparing early helps you avoid the rush and potential breakdowns during peak summer months.
Fall and Winter: Preparing Your Heating System
When cold weather returns to Gresham, your furnace or heat pump becomes your home’s most valuable appliance. Here’s how to prepare for the cooler months:
Replace Filters Again
Just as in summer, clean filters are critical. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, reducing heating efficiency and straining your system.
Inspect the Furnace
Check for any visible signs of rust, corrosion, or unusual noises. These could indicate worn-out parts or the need for a professional inspection.
Clean and Inspect Vents and Ducts
Dust and debris build up in ducts over time, affecting airflow and air quality. Scheduling duct cleaning as part of your HVAC preparation in Gresham can improve efficiency and indoor air health.
Check the Thermostat and Pilot Light
If you use a gas furnace, make sure the pilot light burns blue—not yellow or orange, which could signal a combustion issue.
Schedule a Pre-Winter Tune-Up
An annual inspection before winter ensures your system can handle the coldest months. FTM Heating and Cooling provides full-service HVAC inspections and tune-ups to prevent mid-season breakdowns and ensure safety.
Indoor Air Quality and Energy Efficiency Tips
Preparing your HVAC system isn’t just about heating and cooling—it’s also about maintaining healthy air and reducing energy consumption.
Seal Air Leaks
Check for drafts around windows, doors, and vents. Sealing leaks keeps conditioned air inside and reduces strain on your system.
Install a Humidifier or Dehumidifier
Seasonal humidity levels can fluctuate significantly in Gresham. Maintaining balanced humidity helps your HVAC system operate efficiently and keeps your home comfortable.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Over time, dust, pollen, and allergens accumulate in ducts. Professional duct cleaning improves airflow and air quality while supporting better system performance.
Use Ceiling Fans
In both summer and winter, ceiling fans can help distribute air evenly, reducing the load on your HVAC system.
Check Insulation Levels
Proper insulation in attics and walls helps maintain temperature consistency, reducing the frequency with which your HVAC system runs.
When to Call the Professionals for HVAC System Changes in Gresham
Even with regular homeowner maintenance, professional service is essential for ensuring your HVAC system’s longevity and efficiency. Certain signs indicate that it’s time to call FTM Heating and Cooling for a professional inspection or repair:
- Your HVAC system struggles to maintain a consistent temperature.
- You hear unusual noises such as rattling, grinding, or squealing.
- Your energy bills have suddenly increased.
- You notice weak airflow or inconsistent heating/cooling between rooms.
- The system cycles on and off frequently.
Our licensed technicians in Gresham are equipped to handle everything from preventive maintenance and repairs to full system replacements. We’ll ensure your HVAC system changes in Gresham are done right the first time, so you can enjoy comfort in every season.
Contact FTM Heating and Cooling for Expert HVAC Services in Gresham, OR
Don’t wait until your HVAC system breaks down to think about maintenance. With professional HVAC preparation from FTM Heating and Cooling, you can enjoy year-round comfort, improved air quality, and lower energy costs. Our team provides comprehensive HVAC services in Gresham, including system tune-ups, repairs, replacements, and duct cleaning. Trust us with your AC, furnace, heat pump, water heater, and more.
Call FTM Heating and Cooling today at (971) 447-7875 to schedule your seasonal maintenance or request a free quote. Prepare your HVAC system for the changing seasons and keep your home comfortable no matter the weather.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance in Gresham?
It’s best to schedule maintenance twice a year—once in the spring for your cooling system and once in the fall for your heating system. This ensures your HVAC system is prepared for upcoming seasonal changes.
What are the signs that my HVAC system needs professional attention?
Common signs include uneven temperatures, strange noises, poor airflow, higher energy bills, or unpleasant odors coming from vents.
How can I improve my HVAC system’s efficiency year-round?
Regularly replace air filters, clean ducts, seal air leaks, and schedule professional tune-ups to keep your system running efficiently.
Is duct cleaning necessary for HVAC preparation in Gresham?
Yes. Duct cleaning removes dust, allergens, and debris that can restrict airflow and lower indoor air quality. It’s an important part of seasonal HVAC maintenance.
Why is my energy bill increasing even after HVAC maintenance?
If your energy bill remains high, it could indicate aging equipment, poor insulation, or an outdated thermostat. An HVAC technician from FTM Heating and Cooling can perform an energy efficiency assessment to identify the cause.
