How To Maintain Your HVAC System Before Summer Hits
As the temperatures slowly start to rise, don’t forget to add spring HVAC maintenance to your to-do list! A little prevention goes a long way and you’ll thank yourself for staying ahead when the temperatures hit triple digits.
From DIY cleaning to professional tuning, annual maintenance is an important task—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. CVJ is here to help you understand why maintenance matters and how to get it done so your home can be ready for whatever the summer weather brings.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters
While the weather is briefly mild, spring is the perfect opportunity to prepare your HVAC system for the coming heat. Even if your system appears to be fine, it can benefit from some preventive attention.
Why is HVAC maintenance in the spring so important?
- It allows for a much-needed check-in after running all winter to keep your home warm.
- Regular maintenance helps your system run more efficiently so you can save in the summer.
- Cleaning the system removes dust and allergens that circulate in your home and irritate allergies.
- Identifying and fixing small issues in the spring prevents breakdowns when you need your AC most.
- Maintenance in the spring gives you peace of mind that your HVAC is ready for a long summer.
- A well-maintained system is safer. Maintenance helps identify hazards like electrical issues and leaks.
By taking care of your HVAC in the spring, you’re not just preparing for the heat; you’re investing in your home’s long-term comfort, safety and efficiency. It doesn’t hurt that you can save a little money in the process.
DIY Maintenance Tasks
Depending on your comfort level, there are several basic HVAC maintenance tasks you can tackle on your own. If you run into any trouble or have safety concerns, always reach out to a reputable company for assistance.
Inspect & Clean The Air Conditioning Unit
Start by checking the exterior of the outdoor air conditioning unit for any areas that need cleaning. Clear away debris, leaves and dirt that has built up around the unit to promote better airflow. Trim any shrubbery or plants that may interfere with the unit, keeping at least a 2-foot clearance around it.
Cleaning the interior of the AC unit should be left to a professional. An HVAC technician has the proper tools and training to safely clean internal components like coils, compressors and condensers.
Check & Replace The Air Filter
Changing the air filter regularly will improve airflow, efficiency and indoor air quality. Filters are usually located near the air handler, though it may vary based on your system. It’s recommended to replace the filter at least every 90 days, or more frequently if you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home. In between replacements, you can clean the filter and remove any dirt or debris to prevent clogging.
Inspect Ductwork For Leaks Or Damage
If your home’s ductwork is accessible, you can visually inspect it for any signs of leaks. Keep an eye out for holes, tears, gaps and any areas that you feel air coming through.
If you suspect your home’s ductwork is damaged, leaky or clogged with dust, we recommend calling a professional. Trying to seal or clean ductwork by yourself can be a safety hazard. Working with an HVAC technician will ensure the ductwork is safely repaired for maximum efficiency.
Test Thermostat Functionality
You can test the thermostat by setting it to “cool” and lowering the temperature to see if the air conditioner turns on. If the AC doesn’t turn on, the problem may be as simple eas replacing the thermostat batteries and cleaning off dust.
Pro tip! Thermostat problems are a common but overlooked cause of heating and cooling issues. If either system is unresponsive, start by checking the thermostat.
If the thermostat is unresponsive and simple troubleshooting doesn’t work, a professional can assess wiring issues and internal HVAC component failures. If it’s time for a replacement, they can also help you upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat for greater savings and convenience.
Professional Maintenance Tasks
Some tasks are better left to the professionals. To prevent personal injury and damage to your system, we recommend working with a skilled technician to maintain refrigerant levels, electrical wiring and internal components.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Proper refrigerant levels are crucial for your air conditioning system to run efficiently. Too much or too little refrigerant can decrease efficiency, increase energy costs and potentially damage the system. HVAC professionals use specialized tools during maintenance jobs to check the refrigerant levels and recharge the system if necessary.
Lubricate Moving Parts
All mechanical systems have moving parts that can wear down over time due to friction. During spring maintenance, professionals will lubricate motors, fans and other moving parts to reduce resistance, lower electricity usage and prevent parts from wearing out prematurely.
Inspect & Test Safety Controls
HVAC systems have various safety controls to prevent accidents like overheating or electrical problems. Technicians perform thorough inspections and tests on these safety mechanisms to ensure they are in good working order.
Clean & Adjust Blower Components
The blower moves air through the ductwork and into your home. Over time, dust and debris can build up on the blower’s components and affect its efficiency. Professionals can clean and adjust these components to ensure optimal airflow and system performance.
Do You Really Need Professional HVAC Maintenance In The Spring?
Adding professional HVAC maintenance to your spring to-do list is a simple task that benefits your home more than you may realize. While there are tasks you can tackle on your own, the expertise of a professional can make a world of difference in the health and efficiency of your HVAC system.
Here are the key benefits of enlisting professional help each spring:
- Prolonged System Life: Technicians prevent small issues from becoming major problems, helping your system run smoothly for years to come.
- Improved Efficiency: Professional maintenance includes cleaning and adjusting critical components to optimize performance and help you save.
- Enhanced Air Quality: Cleaning the system from the inside out helps reduce allergens and pollutants from circulating in your home.
- Prevention of Unexpected Breakdowns: Proactive service can save you the inconvenience and expense of emergency repairs during the peak of summer heat.
- Safety: Professionals are trained to identify safety hazards and address them appropriately to keep your system safe.
- Warranty Preservation: Scheduling annual maintenance helps keep your warranty intact, giving peace of mind and protection.
It’s Smooth Sailing To Summer With CVJ
Homeownership is no small feat. CVJ Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you tackle spring tasks and prepare your home for a long summer in the Aubrey, TX, area. When it comes to preventative maintenance, we have a proven track record of helping our neighbors stay cool and save.
For one-time service or to join our Captain’s Club maintenance program, contact us online or call 940-251-2941 today!