Temple TX Homeowners: a few electrical and HVAC tips for the fall

The first cold snap will be upon us before you know it; is your heating system in order? You may have some misgivings about putting too much on your circuits when the holiday lights come out. For that matter, how long has it been since someone gave your furnace or electrical panel a once over?

Then you have come to the right spot. We of Amos Home Services (Amos Electric) have been at the service of Temple and all of Greater Bell County for 75 years plus, and we would like to put your mind at ease as you make the transition into fall. Do not hesitate to put in a call to (254) 280-5514.

There is an oddity to the season in Central Texas. It can be summer one day and you are putting on a sweater the next. The weather’s way of going back and forth takes its toll on home systems. A measure of forethought now is worth it to avoid the expense and trouble down the road. What follows are the kind of advice we proffer to our neighbours in Killeen, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove, Belton, Fort Hood, Gatesville and Temple.

Why wait until fall to get ready?

An air conditioner has to work hard through the heat of a Central Texas summer. By the time you get to fall the system has been at it for months. It makes sense to put in the time then to remedy any niggling issues before winter comes and you need your heat. Your electrical system is no different; with space heaters and the like coming out of storage there will be new loads to contend with.

For the most part preparation is simple enough. Some of it is for you to do, other things are better in the hands of a certified technician. One knows the difference.

HVAC for the cooler weather

Before you put the system on heat it calls for some attention. Our recommendation to homeowners this time of year is to:

• Put in a new air filter and set about changing it every month or two
• Run the heat for a few minutes to see if anything is amiss before you are in want of it
• See that the outdoor unit is free of debris, leaves and grass
• Make sure furniture or a rug is not in the way of your supply and return vents
• Be on the lookout for any odd smell or noise when the heat is first turned on
• Have a professional do a tune-up of the components not easily visible

We cannot stress that last one. On a cold night a breakdown is the last thing you want; a good technician will put a stop to a worn part or safety issue well in advance.

Electrical matters ahead of the holidays

With more devices running and more cooking and light, you put extra demand on your system which can reveal its weak points. Here is what to bear in mind:

• Any frayed wire on an extension cord or strand of lights should be seen to before they are put up
• Do not overload a power strip or outlet with high-draw appliances
• GFCI outlets in the kitchen, bath and outdoors ought to be tested
• If breakers are tripping over and over or you have flickering lights and warm outlets, take note
• An older home or one with new appliances could use a panel inspection
• Put fresh batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

It is unfortunate but true that many an electrical fire is preceded by something you could have put your finger on. A warm outlet is a warning, not an inconvenience. Let a licensed electrician have a look at it.

Leaving it to the pros

When it comes to wiring, the inside of your furnace or the electrical panel, let the certified technicians and electricians handle it. Amos Home Services is fully insured and licensed; we are familiar with homes in Central Texas because we are from here.

Our hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Thursday and until 3:30pm on Friday. Should an emergency with your HVAC or electrical arise after hours we are on hand 24/7. And we offer financing so a repair can be done without delay.

Inquire also as to our Priority Maintenance Plan (PMP). With the Pro Plan you are covered for daily monitoring, priority scheduling and 5% off major components. Service repairs on lighting, AC, generator and electrical work are 10% off for members, as are your annual tune-ups. It is an easy way to forestall problems in any season.

The cooler nights are coming. Attend to the small items and leave the rest to us. Call (254) 280-5514 to book your fall service with Amos Home Services. In the 75 years we have had the privilege of serving Temple and Bell County we have made it our business to be there for you.