It’s finally time to welcome the warmer weather in the Portland Metro area. If you are searching for ways to prepare your home for the upcoming spring months, start by preparing your HVAC system. Keeping your home comfortable and energy usage efficient can be challenging with the temperature changes in spring. Here are critical steps to improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit throughout the spring months.
Replace Your Air Filters
When springtime comes, it’s a great idea to stay on top of changing your air filters. Cleaning or changing your air filters is an effective way of improving your system’s efficiency. Besides maximizing system efficiency, changing air filters in preparation for spring helps maintain healthy indoor air quality. When the filters are dirty or clogged, your HVAC unit works harder than usual to circulate air in your home.
Schedule a Spring Maintenance Inspection
A spring maintenance inspection is necessary to maintain indoor air quality and improve your home’s comfort. It helps to extend the lifespan of your HVAC unit and reduce energy consumption. During a spring HVAC maintenance routine, the technician inspects the unit for repairs and replaces faulty components. The inspection will help to prevent unnecessary repairs and breakdowns during the spring months.
Clean the Outdoor Unit
Another important step to preparing your HVAC unit for spring is cleaning the outdoor components. Debris and dirt easily accumulate around the outdoor unit when winter brings rain and wind. Trim shrubs, weeds, and other plants growing around the unit to keep your HVAC system free of obstructions. Improve your system’s performance during the spring months by cleaning the outside coils.
Duct Cleaning and Maintenance
Your heating and cooling system is vital, but you shouldn’t forget the conduits responsible for distributing the air throughout your home. Hire an HVAC technician when spring rolls around to clean and maintain your ducts. Performing a thorough duct cleaning removes allergens, dirt, and dust. The HVAC technician should also inspect seals to keep your HVAC system airtight. Visual inspections and repairs of duct damages from chewing rodents prevent premature breakdowns.
Check for Leaks and Cracks
The HVAC system might form cracks and leaks during the winter months. Since the system has several metal components, they can easily rust and cause holes and cracks. That’s why you need an expert to inspect the system for leaks, such as refrigerant leaks, before springtime. If you notice cracks or leaks, hire a technician to repair them before you start using the HVAC system in spring.
Consider an HVAC Upgrade
Spring is a great time to upgrade your HVAC system if it’s on its last leg. Consider replacing an old or malfunctioning heating and cooling system before spring to save you money on energy bills and improve comfort levels. Talk to an experienced HVAC technician to inspect your current system and recommend the right system for your home’s needs.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
If you want to save energy bills, investing in a programmable thermostat is necessary. If your thermostat is old or showing signs it needs a replacement, consider choosing a programmable thermostat. It allows you to control temperatures better than other thermostats while lowering energy bills. Installing a programmable thermostat in the spring allows you to set temperatures higher when you are sleeping or away from your home.
Test the Air Conditioner
Some AC units might not function optimally due to the long inactivity during the winter. That’s why you should check your air conditioner before the weather warms up to ensure that it functions optimally. Ensure that the unit produces cold air.
A few things, such as how long the AC takes to cycle on, strange smells from the vents, and strange noises, can alert you to an issue of potential malfunction. If you notice any of these signs, hire an expert for repairs in preparation for spring. Consider replacing your AC if it’s old or beyond repair.
Clean Your Drainpipe
The last thing you want to deal with this spring is a leaking HVAC system. A blockage in the system’s condensate drainpipe can cause it to overflow. Moss growth, dirt, debris, and dust can cause drainpipe blockages. As you prepare your HVAC system for spring, ensure that the drainpipe is clean and clear of dust particles.
At Climate Control, we have provided quality heat pump, IAQ, and furnace services for several years. We also provide affordable and reputable hot water heater installations and indoor air quality audits. Call us now or fill out our online form to schedule spring HVAC maintenance and even AC installations.
