As the summer sun fades and school bells start ringing, your family’s routine is about to change with more homework, indoor activities, and cozy evenings at home. While you focus on back-to-school prep, have you checked if your HVAC system can handle the shift in demand?

At High Road Heating & Cooling, we know that a well-prepped HVAC system is key to a comfortable, healthy home as you settle into the new school year.

Here are our top tips for Twin Cities families to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills in check as the seasons shift.

Why Back-to-School Means HVAC Time

Back-to-school means more time indoors for everyone, which puts extra strain on your HVAC system. Dust, allergens, and humidity can build up fast, affecting comfort and health. Plus, with the Twin Cities’ changing weather, your HVAC needs to smoothly shift from summer cooling to heating seasons.

Taking the time now to prep your HVAC means fewer surprises and a happier home all season long.

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

Just like students need check-ups and supplies for success, your HVAC system needs routine maintenance to perform at its best. Scheduling a professional tune-up with High Road Heating & Cooling ensures your system is clean, efficient, and ready for the seasonal shift.

What to expect:

  • Cleaning and inspecting key components
  • Checking refrigerant levels and airflow
  • Testing thermostat accuracy and functionality
  • Identifying any small repairs before they become costly issues

Regular maintenance not only improves comfort but can extend the life of your system, helping you avoid unexpected breakdowns during critical times.

2. Change Your Air Filters Regularly

With more indoor time and open windows closing up for fall, air quality matters more than ever. 

Dirty air filters can:

  • Restrict airflow
  • Put extra strain on your HVAC system
  • Spread allergens throughout your home

Tip: Replace your HVAC air filters every 1-3 months during heavy-use seasons. This easy step boosts air quality and system efficiency, especially important for families with kids who suffer from allergies or asthma.

3. Adjust Your Thermostat Schedule

With kids back in school and more consistent home routines, it’s a great time to revisit your thermostat settings. Programmable or smart thermostats allow you to tailor temperatures based on when people are home, saving energy and money.

Pro tip: Set your thermostat a few degrees higher during school hours and evenings when the family is active indoors. Gradually adjust as fall progresses to balance comfort and efficiency.

4. Inspect and Seal Ductwork

Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can let precious heated or cooled air escape before it reaches your living spaces. This means your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain comfort.

What you can do:

  • Check ducts for cracks or loose joints
  • Seal leaks with duct mastic or foil tape (avoid regular duct tape)
  • For best results, consider professional duct sealing and insulation

Sealing ducts improves air flow, reduces energy waste, and helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home.

5. Invest in Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Back-to-school season means more sneezes, sniffles, and coughs. Indoor air quality solutions like air purifiers, humidifiers, and ventilation systems can make a big difference in your family’s health and comfort.

High Road Heating & Cooling provides customized air quality solutions to reduce allergens, control humidity, and improve airflow to help your family stay healthy and comfortable.

6. Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Furniture, toys, and backpacks can sometimes block air vents, restricting airflow and causing uneven heating or cooling. Make sure vents and registers in high-traffic areas are clear to maximize system efficiency.

Encourage your kids to keep their backpacks and sports gear away from heating vents for optimal comfort.

Your Trusted HVAC Partner for Back-to-School Comfort

At High Road Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to serve our neighbors in the Twin Cities area with expert heating and cooling solutions. We focus on smart, long-lasting fixes to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Why Choose High Road Heating & Cooling?

  • 24/7 Emergency Service: Fast, reliable help any time, day or night.
  • Qualified & Insured Technicians: Skilled pros who treat your home with care.
  • Guaranteed Workmanship: We stand behind every job. If it’s not right, we fix it.
  • Love Your Home Comfort Club: Twice-yearly tune-ups, priority service, repair discounts, and loyalty points toward upgrades.
  • Flexible Financing: Instant approval and low monthly payments to fit your budget.

Whether you need a thorough HVAC tune-up, filter replacement, duct inspection, or indoor air quality upgrade, our fully qualified technicians are here to help keep your home cozy, healthy, and energy efficient.

Ready to Get Your HVAC System Back-to-School Ready?

Don’t wait for the first chilly morning or a sudden breakdown to get your HVAC system checked. 

Contact High Road Heating & Cooling to schedule your free estimate or professional maintenance appointment.

Let’s take the High Road together by ensuring your home stays comfortable and your family stays happy all school year long!