You are viewing the Wilmington, NC location.
September in Wilmington, North Carolina, marks a transition period—summer’s heat begins to ease, but humid days and sudden temperature shifts are still part of daily life. This coastal climate is unpredictable, which means your HVAC system needs to be ready for anything, from lingering summer warmth to early autumn chill.
The best way to prepare? A proactive checklist that ensures your heating and cooling equipment is clean, efficient, and ready for the season ahead. Here’s what every Wilmington homeowner should do now to keep comfort high and energy bills low.
1. Change or Clean Your Air Filters
Air filters are the first line of defense for your HVAC system. Over summer, pollen, dust, and coastal humidity can cause them to clog faster. A dirty filter makes your system work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear.
August tip: Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones at least once this month. Choose high-quality filters for better indoor air quality, especially if you suffer from allergies or coastal mold spores.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
As temperatures fluctuate, it’s time to rethink your thermostat schedule. Cooler nights mean you can reduce AC use and start transitioning toward heating mode.
Set your thermostat a few degrees warmer than summer during the day to save energy. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, create a fall schedule that balances comfort and efficiency. Remember that coastal humidity can still be high in September, so avoid settings that cause your system to cycle too often.
3. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
September is the perfect time for a maintenance visit before peak heating season. A professional inspection ensures your system is operating at peak efficiency and catches small issues before they become major problems. During a late summer/early fall tune-up, we:
- Inspect electrical connections
- Check refrigerant levels
- Clean coils and blower components
- Test the heating function to ensure it’s ready for cooler days
- Verify humidity control and airflow are within optimal ranges
4. Check Your Outdoor Unit
Summer storms and salt air can leave debris, sand, or corrosion on your outdoor condenser. Restricted airflow can damage your system and reduce efficiency. Quick checklist:
- Clear leaves, branches, or grass clippings from around the unit
- Gently rinse the exterior fins with a garden hose
- Maintain at least two feet of clearance on all sides
5. Seal and Insulate Where Needed
Coastal winds and salty air can be tough on your home’s seals. Gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork allow conditioned air to escape, forcing your HVAC to work harder. This month you can inspect weatherstripping, caulking, and duct insulation. Sealing leaks now can save you money on both your cooling and upcoming heating bills.
6. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
If you have a gas furnace or other combustion appliances, now is the time to test your carbon monoxide detectors. Fresh batteries and proper placement could make all the difference in safety during the heating season.
At Gideon Heating & Air Conditioning, we like to say that our work isn’t just good—it’s Gideon Guaranteed! Contact us today to schedule HVAC services.