HVAC Maintenance

Remember the importance of regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Follow these helpful tips!

The transitional periods between seasons present an ideal opportunity to prioritize HVAC maintenance. As you shut down the furnace for the winter and gear up to switch on the air conditioning for the summer, simple upkeep tasks become essential. Maintaining your heating and cooling system is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. By taking preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of costly emergency repairs and inconvenient breakdowns. Neglecting proper care for your HVAC system may even jeopardize warranty coverage.

Here are 8 steps for early spring that any homeowner can follow to ensure their HVAC system remains in top condition.

1. Clear away any debris surrounding the outdoor unit to ensure optimal performance.
2. Conduct a visual inspection of the outdoor unit to identify any potential issues.
3. Schedule a professional duct cleaning to enhance indoor air quality.
4. Regularly replace the HVAC filter to maintain system efficiency.
5. Take advantage of fresh air by opening windows and using fans for circulation.
6. Check for and address any air leaks to improve overall system efficiency.
7. Test the cooling function of your HVAC unit before the warmer months arrive.
8. Don't forget to schedule annual HVAC maintenance servicing to ensure long-term system performance.

1. Clear away any debris surrounding the outdoor unit to ensure optimal performance.

During the autumn and winter seasons, debris may have accumulated around the exterior unit. Before embarking on your spring landscaping projects, it is important to tidy up the area surrounding your HVAC system. Clear away any leaves, branches, and dirt that have gathered within a two-foot radius. Trim back any bushes or plants encroaching on the unit. You can easily clean the coils from any winter grime buildup using a garden hose or vacuum attachment. Keeping the area clear will ensure that the system can cool efficiently without any unnecessary strain.

2. Conduct a visual inspection of the outdoor unit to identify any potential issues.

Ensure that the outdoor unit is level and placed on a stable surface for optimal performance once the summer heat arrives. Conduct a visual inspection of the condenser to check for any signs of damage from the winter months. If anything appears out of the ordinary, contact your HVAC technician for assistance. A damaged condenser can pose a significant issue when it's time to switch on the air conditioning.

3. Schedule a professional duct cleaning to enhance indoor air quality.

To ensure excellent indoor air quality, consider scheduling a professional duct cleaning in early spring. This step helps eliminate dust, mold, and other allergens that may have built up over the winter months. By clearing out these pollutants, you can create a healthier environment for allergy sufferers and remove any lingering spring pollen from your home's air system. We recommend homeowners to arrange for duct cleaning services every five to seven years.

4. Regularly replace the HVAC filter to maintain system efficiency.

You're likely aware of the importance of regularly swapping out your HVAC system's filter. Clogged filters restrict airflow and promote mold growth. Over time, this can cause your heating and cooling system to overwork and consume more energy. To maintain optimal performance, make sure to replace the filter every 30 - 90 days.

5. Take advantage of fresh air by opening windows and using fans for circulation.

Take advantage of the pleasant spring weather by opening up your windows and letting in the fresh air. Not only will this help improve the air quality in your home, but it will also create a healthier and more invigorating environment for you and your family.

6. Check for and address any air leaks to improve overall system efficiency.

Even with a well-maintained HVAC system, cooling a home can be challenging if it isn't properly sealed. While tackling your spring maintenance tasks, be sure to check for any areas where air may be leaking out. Inspect the weather stripping around windows, door jambs, and seals to identify any signs of damage like cracks, detachment, or warping. Replacing these worn-out components will ensure a tightly sealed home envelope, helping to maintain consistent temperatures in all areas. This not only reduces strain on your HVAC unit but also improves its overall efficiency in both the summer and winter seasons.

7. Test the cooling function of your HVAC unit before the warmer months arrive.

Make sure your air conditioning is ready to go before the heat sets in. Set your thermostat a few degrees lower than the current indoor temperature. Wait for the HVAC unit to kick in, then check for cool air coming out of the vents. Listen for any unusual noises while it's running. If anything seems off, schedule a checkup with your trusted HVAC technicians.

8. Don't forget to schedule annual HVAC maintenance servicing to ensure long-term system performance.

Remember to schedule an annual HVAC maintenance checkup. Certified technicians will inspect refrigerant levels, test airflow and system output, tighten electrical connections and hoses, and assess key components for signs of wear, such as the compressor, tubing, fan, and motor blades.