Get Your Home Ready for Cooler Weather in Clayton & Surrounding Areas

As the weather begins to cool in Clayton and surrounding areas like Garner, Smithfield, and Flowers Plantation, now’s the perfect time to prep your home’s heating system for fall and winter. A little HVAC maintenance now can help you avoid surprise breakdowns, lower your energy bills, and keep your family comfortable when temperatures drop.

Here are some practical, homeowner-friendly HVAC tips to help you stay ahead this fall:

1. Book a Pre-Season HVAC Tune-Up

Don’t wait for the first cold front to find out your heat isn’t working. A professional inspection helps catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. Local HVAC techs can also make sure your system is running efficiently — which means lower heating bills through the winter.

2. Change Your Air Filters

Dirty filters are one of the top causes of poor HVAC performance. They reduce airflow, stress your system, and increase energy use. Most homes in the Clayton area benefit from changing filters every 1–3 months — especially if you have pets or allergies.

3. Test Your Thermostat

Before the weather gets too cold, switch your thermostat to heat mode and test it. If your system doesn’t turn on quickly or your thermostat seems inaccurate, it may need recalibration or replacement.

4. Check and Clean Vents

Walk through your home and make sure vents aren’t blocked by rugs, furniture, or dust buildup. Clean vents help your system heat your home evenly and reduce strain on your unit.

5. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

With heating systems running, safety matters. Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries.

6. Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Clayton homes — especially older ones — may lose heat through small gaps around doors and windows. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas and improve comfort while lowering your heating costs.