Spring has finally sprung. We’ve reached the time of year when homeowners undergo “spring cleaning” in order to freshen up their homes and prepare them for the warmer months. However, during all of that cleaning, one thing that is often overlooked is a home’s HVAC system.
Your HVAC unit is a crucial part of your home. It is responsible for heating and cooling your home and keeping your family comfortable. It also maintains your home’s air quality by filtering out allergens and other contaminants.
Just like any other part of your home, your HVAC system requires regular attention to maintain peak performance. Here is a spring HVAC maintenance checklist for your home.
Change the Air Filter
One of the easiest, and most important, things that you can do for your HVAC unit is replace the air filter. Regularly cleaning or replacing the filter (as recommended by the manufacturer) will keep the system running smoothly.
Replacing a dirty or old filter will make your HVAC system more energy efficient. It will also make it more effective at improving indoor air quality by removing allergens. This is especially important for pet owners or allergy sufferers.
Examine the Condensate Drain
When replacing the air filter, also take a look at your HVAC system’s condensate drain. This is a plastic or metal tray which collects moisture and funnels it away from the system.
If left unattended, moisture can build up and eventually overflow. This could cause considerable damage to your HVAC unit. Make sure that the hose connected to the condensate drain is secure and not leaking or overflowing.
Remove Nearby Plants and Weeds
For proper cooling of your home, it is important that airflow is unimpeded around your HVAC system. Generally, it is recommended that your unit have two feet of clearance around it.
It is easy for plants or weeds to build up and interrupt this airflow. When tidying up the lawn around your home, look for any buildup around your HVAC system and remove encroaching plants.
Test Your HVAC System
It’s important to replace and examine certain components of your HVAC system. However, one of the best things you can do is test its effectiveness in your home.
Turn on your HVAC system. Make sure that it is not producing any strange or unfamiliar sounds or scents. If it is not cooling your home to the desired level, it may be best to speak with an HVAC professional.
Consult with an HVAC Technician
There are many ways you can maintain your HVAC system yourself. However, if you are unsure of your unit’s condition or simply want a trained eye to assist, schedule an appointment with your local HVAC professional.
There are many benefits to having an HVAC technical inspect your unit. They will make sure that electrical connections are secure, that blower fans are running smoothly, and that everything is operating as it should.
Your HVAC system is an essential part of your home. Regular HVAC maintenance should be a part of any homeowner’s yearly routine. These tips will give you the peace of mind that your system is ready for the warm summer months.
If you are seeking a professional opinion on your HVAC system this spring, consider the services of RSC Heating & Air. Our team has over 30 years of experience inspecting and repairing HVAC units in Pennsylvania. To schedule an inspection of your system, contact us today or call 717-299-3914.
