The seasons are transitioning, and it’s time for your HVAC system to transition as well! To make things easier, we’ve developed this handy guide to help you prep your unit for the upcoming months.
Preparing your HVAC system for spring weather can help you save time and money, and prevent future frustration by limiting the chances of your unit breaking down mid-summer. Check out our tips below!
Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit
The harsh winter weather can do a number on your landscaping. There’s plenty of mud, fallen tree branches, twigs, and dead plants that can block your outdoor HVAC unit. Try giving your outdoor unit a little love by clearing out the overgrown foliage and other debris that might have found its way around it.
We recommend keeping a 2-3 foot clearing around the unit to help maintain a high level of efficiency. This also makes it easier for HVAC technicians to reach it in case of a repair. While cleaning out your unit, keep an eye out for any critters that might have made a home in it during the winter. If you see an animal don’t try to remove it yourself, call Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing to come to take a closer look.
Be sure you continue to maintain your landscaping around your outdoor unit throughout spring and summer. Keep your grass short and trim your shrubs and bushes. If you plan on planting any flowers, be mindful of how big they will grow in the future.
Clean Your Registers and Ducts
While you’re spring cleaning your home, don’t neglect your registers. Your registers can easily be overlooked, but they’re an essential part of keeping the air in your home clean. We recommend using a vacuum to remove the dust, pet hair, and dander. For a deeper clean, wipe them down with a cleaning cloth after you vacuum. Make sure your registers are completely clean before you start using your AC.
Another way to ensure you’re getting the best indoor air quality is to get your air ducts cleaned. This task should be performed by a professional every 5-7 years. If you’re unsure whether your ducts need to be cleaned, ask your technician during your next tune-up.
Test Run Your HVAC System
Doing a test run on your AC at the beginning of spring is a great way to troubleshoot issues before you start regularly using your AC. This test should be done on a day when you have the time to check your vents every couple of hours.
Turn on your AC and check the airflow coming from your vents. Make sure you check every few hours to ensure you’re getting the appropriate amount of airflow. If you don’t feel enough air coming out or the air is not cool enough, contact our team!
Give Your HVAC System a Break
Your HVAC system has been working hard for the past four months; it deserves a break! When the temperature reaches that beautiful sweet spot, turn off your system for a few days. Open your windows and invite in the fresh air!
When you do this, you’re actually improving the indoor air quality in your home. Throughout the winter months, your home recirculates the same air over and over again. Opening the windows lets that fresh air spread through your home.
Schedule an Inspection
Annual maintenance checks are essential in preserving the efficiency of your HVAC system. Spring is the perfect time to schedule this check-up. Not only will it ensure your system is properly maintained, but it is also a great time to identify any issue that may arise before the heat of summer begins.
We hope this article helps guide you in prepping your HVAC system for the upcoming months. If you run into any issues while performing any of the tasks above, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
