The official first day of spring has come and gone, and although the weather still isn’t sure it’s ready to act like it, summer is right around the corner. Early spring, right as we’re coming out of the cold weather but before the hot weather hits, is the perfect time to do a check in with your HVAC system to make sure everything is functioning properly.
- Air It Out
It’s "windows open weather!" Shut your HVAC system down to prepare for the spring time maintenance, and enjoy the spring weather.This is the perfect time to naturally air out your house to help improve the air quality in the home.
- Replace/Upgrade the Filter
Speaking of air quality, take this opportunity to replace your air filter. Dirty filters can wreak havoc on your air quality by restricting airflow and promoting indoor air pollution. They also cause both your heating and cooling system to work harder which is costly both in the short and long term by increasing utility bills and breaking the system down faster. As long as you’re already replacing the filter, it’s a great time to consider upgrading. High-efficiency filters are better at trapping dirt and debris which helps your unit run better and improves your air quality.
- Clean and Inspect the Unit
It’s highly likely that your outdoor HVAC unit has experienced a buildup of debris throughout the fall and winter months. These brisk spring days are the perfect time to head out and perform a visual inspection of the unit and do some light cleaning. Make sure the unit is still level and the surface beneath it remains stable, and inspect the unit for any obvious signs of damage. Clear away any dirt, leaves, or other debris that may have built up along the unit and within two feet around it. It’s also a good idea to give the unit a quick cleaning with a hose or vacuum to get rid of any buildup that accumulated over the winter.
- Clean the Ducts
You’ve been trapped inside all winter long, and so have all the dirt and allergens in your home. During the winter dust, mold, and other allergens build up inside your home and inside your duct work. A professional duct cleaning will clear your ducts of all of the debris that has built up. It will also remove any spring pollen that may have begun to accumulate with the spring weather.
- Schedule Maintenance
It’s best practice to have your HVAC checked at least once a year by a certified technician. They will be able to check all levels and test the output of the system to make sure it’s running optimally. These yearly checkups will help you catch problems before they start so you can be sure your system is functioning at peak levels for the hot summer.
Spring weather is finally here. During the lull between needing to run your heat nonstop and blast your air conditioner all summer, take some time to let fresh air into your home and do some general HVAC maintenance to prepare your system for the months ahead.