Spring is almost here which means you are probably starting to think about spring cleaning. You may clean out your closets, garages, and kitchens for the new season, but don’t forget another important aspect of your home – your HVAC. Maintaining your HVAC keeps the system running efficiently, which helps to not only improve your comfort but reduces your utility bills, as well. While we do suggest that you have a NW Mechanical professional come take a look at all of your home energy systems, there are a few easy tasks you can take on yourself to ensure that your HVAC is fresh and running in tip-top shape.
Inspect Your Air Conditioner
Early spring is the best time to examine your air conditioner and clear away any debris that may have collected in it throughout the fall and winter. Ensure that no foreign objects (branches, leaves, etc.) have fallen onto the condenser and trim away any excess foliage that may have grown around the appliance. Inspect the integrity of any tubing running from the unit into your home. If the condenser appears damaged or you spot a refrigerant leak, contact us for repairs or a replacement.
Take a look at the evaporator unit, which should be located near your furnace. Find the drainage hole at the base of the unit and be sure that it is clear. If it seems blocked, clean it with a paperclip or pipe cleaner to guarantee proper drainage from the unit.
Check Your Furnace
Your furnace may be located in an area of your home that is used for seasonal storage. Ensure that there is at least three feet of clear space in all directions from the furnace. Inspect the unit for any damage or if any items have fallen against it. If you have a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace (which you should), now is a good time to test the batteries and make sure it is in working order.
Vacuum thoroughly around your furnace and CO detector to remove any dust or debris that could be sucked into the unit, causing a drop in efficiency in both systems. If your furnace has a humidifier, take the time to clean it out, turn the power off, and remove the housing to let it completely dry. Use your vacuum hose to clean out the interior of the unit for improved performance, and don’t forget to change the filter.
Clean Your Vents and Fans
Vents and exhaust or extractor fans are crucial for indoor comfort in the spring and summer but are often overlooked when it comes to the cleaning process. Use a static duster or microfiber cloth to wipe down your vents and extractor fan covers. Vacuum out any dirt or debris inside the cover. If they seem especially dirty, don’t hesitate to remove the covers and scrub them down.
Now that you have cleaned up your home energy systems, it’s time to give us a call to do a full HVAC tune-up. Find out more about our comprehensive heating and air conditioning services on our website. Give us a call today to schedule your yearly maintenance.