One of the best ways a homeowner can both lengthen the lifespan of and maintain their HVAC system is to create an effective spring cleaning list. As the weather starts getting warmer, seasonal maintenance is necessary (prior to switching the air conditioner on for the summer on a regular basis). Performing just a few simple tasks, both inside and outside the home, can help decrease the strain on the system, lower energy bills, and keep the home as cool as possible when it’s hot outside.
Indoor and Outdoor Tasks For The Homeowner
Dust All Surfaces
Before opening the windows, take the time to dust all available surfaces. While the filter does a great job catching most of these allergens, don’t make it work harder than it should have to.
Change The HVAC Filter
The air filter should be changed at least twice a year, and even more often if there are pets or smokers in the home. A dirty air filter won’t efficiently remove allergens from the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality.
Remove Plants From Around the Outdoor Units
Many people don’t think about doing this, but it can be an important factor in how well the unit runs in the summer. Weeds, plants, and even tall grasses can block the airflow that it needs to work efficiently. There should be a two-foot clearance around the unit at all times.
Perform a Test Run
The last task on the list is to perform a test run of the air conditioner unit. This will easily help assess if there are any issues that need to be addressed before the temperatures heat up – unusual sounds, smells, etc.
Contact An HVAC Professional For Preventative Maintenance
Duct Cleaning
A great tool at an HVAC professional’s disposal is the ability to perform a full duct cleaning. With a duct cleaning, the inside of the duct system is cleaned to remove any traces of allergens, mold, dust, and other things that may be reducing the air quality in the home.
Full System Cleaning
After the duct cleaning, have your HVAC professional do a full system cleaning. This will verify the system is working at its highest level before it is needed on a daily basis. It can also catch problems before they become emergency situations, which will ultimately save money.
So, after your spring cleaning lists are complete, give the experts at Christian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical a call. In addition to seasonal, preventative maintenance, our team can assess the entire system so that you can be assured that your home will stay cool all summer long.
