Fall HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Austin, TX Homes

When the hot Austin summer finally gives way to cooler fall temperatures, many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief. But before you switch from cooling to heating, it’s important to give your HVAC system some attention. A little fall maintenance goes a long way toward preventing breakdowns, improving energy efficiency, and keeping your family comfortable all season long.

At McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Austin homeowners maintain their HVAC systems for over 45 years. Here’s a simple fall HVAC maintenance checklist to get your home ready for the cooler months ahead.

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters

Your HVAC filter works hard all summer, trapping dust, pollen, and allergens. By fall, it’s likely dirty and clogged. A dirty filter reduces airflow, making your system work harder and increasing your energy bill.
Tip: Change your filter every 1–3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.

2. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Leaves, branches, and debris can block airflow around your condenser unit. Since Austin’s weather often brings wind and rain in the fall, it’s important to keep the area clear.
Tip: Trim plants and shrubs at least two feet away from your outdoor unit.

3. Check Your Thermostat Settings

With cooler weather arriving, you’ll likely adjust your thermostat for heating. Programmable and smart thermostats can help reduce energy costs by automatically adjusting when you’re away.
Tip: Set your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home and lower it a few degrees while you sleep or are away.

4. Inspect Air Ducts for Leaks

Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of heated or cooled air. That’s money literally leaking out of your home.
Tip: Schedule a professional duct inspection in Austin to ensure your system isn’t losing energy through cracks or poor connections.

5. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance

Fall is the perfect time for a professional HVAC tune-up. A certified technician can inspect your system, clean coils, test safety controls, and make small repairs before they become big problems.
Tip: Annual maintenance helps your HVAC system last longer, run more efficiently, and keep your utility bills lower.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall HVAC Maintenance in Austin, TX

1. Why is fall HVAC maintenance important in Austin?
Fall maintenance prepares your system for cooler weather, prevents costly breakdowns, and ensures efficient operation during both heating and cooling seasons.

2. How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?
At least twice a year—once in the spring before cooling season, and once in the fall before heating season.

3. Can I do HVAC maintenance myself?
You can replace filters, clear debris, and check thermostat settings yourself. But professional HVAC tune-ups should always be handled by a licensed Austin technician for safety and efficiency.

4. What happens if I skip fall maintenance?
Skipping maintenance can lead to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system.

5. Who should I call for fall HVAC service in Austin, TX?
Call McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning, Austin’s trusted HVAC experts for over 45 years. We provide comprehensive fall tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly all year long.

Keep Your Austin Home Comfortable This Fall

Don’t wait until the first cold snap to find out your HVAC system isn’t ready. By following this fall HVAC maintenance checklist and scheduling a professional tune-up, you’ll enjoy reliable comfort and lower energy bills all season.

Contact McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule your fall HVAC maintenance in Austin, TX!