Here in Tennessee, autumn can give our trees stunning colors, but the falling leaves can also cause issues for homes. The same as other yard waste, leaves can damage your HVAC system. The most frequent problems and solutions are listed below:

 Pretty to look at, ugly problems if left piling up

Fallen leaves, no matter how beautiful a sight, can cause a variety of issues, including blocked furnace exhaust and intake pipes. Many modern furnaces have Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) exhaust/intake pipes on the exterior of buildings.

To keep piles out, these should have screens installed. But don't only rely on a screen to keep obstructions from occurring. Even yet, yard waste like falling leaves or other dirt can readily clog these pipes.

If leaves get inside the external unit that contains the compressor, your air conditioner may later experience troubles. Reduced airflow, clogged condenser coils, and the growth of mold and bacteria are all caused by bacteria buildup. If you use a heat pump instead of a furnace to heat your home, a clogged compressor will result in more severe problems sooner, like cooler interior temperatures, increased heating expenses, and significant system wear and tear.

The Resolution

• At least once per week, rake leaves and throw them away. To avoid accidentally spraying dirt and debris towards the outdoor HVAC unit and the furnace intake or exhaust pipes, be sure to rake in the other direction.

• As part of your heating and cooling system's seasonal preventive maintenance, schedule professional HVAC cleaning. The experts at McCoy’s possess the knowhow and experience necessary to safely clean both interior and exterior components and keep everything functioning properly and safely.

• Refrain from growing foliage too close to HVAC systems or pipelines, including trees and shrubs. Maintain a minimum 3-foot clearance area all the time surrounding the compressor.

• Consider using a cover if leaves drop right on top of the outside unit.

We’re here for you with every season!! Contact McCoy’s Heating and Air today for additional details about the effects of fallen autumn leaves in your HVAC system and anything else you require!