Get Your HVAC Ready for Spring With These Essential Maintenance Tips

The air filter is the first line of defense against dust, pet hair, dander and other allergens from getting into your home. A clogged air filter can lead to poor air flow and decreased efficiency.

Next, inspect the outside unit for debris. This can block the condensate drain line, which looks like a small hose.

Replace Your Air Filters

When your air filters are dirty and clogged, it prevents the proper flow of fresh air through your system. This reduces indoor air quality, causes specific allergies to flare up, and can wear on the unit faster.

The best way to get your HVAC ready for spring is by ensuring the air filters are clean. This is a quick, inexpensive, and easy chore that is incredibly important.

Start by shutting off the air handler/furnace so that you can open up the vents and remove the old filter. Once you have removed it, replace with the new filter, making sure that it is inserted properly. Every filter has arrows on it to indicate the direction of airflow, so make sure that these are pointing away from the vent and toward the HVAC unit. Once the new filter is in place, close your vent and turn back on the air handler/furnace. You’re done! This should take less than a minute.

Inspect Your Furnace

As your furnace runs, moisture is produced and drains through a line that looks like a small hose. Check this to ensure it isn’t clogged.

Open all return and supply registers to verify that they are free of furniture, rugs, curtains, boxes, and other obstacles blocking air flow. Those with programmable thermostats should adjust their settings to fit winter temperatures, and any safety controls such as pressure and limit switches should be tested for proper operation.

If your blower motor has a lubrication port, add a few drops of lightweight lubricant to each oil cup. This reduces friction and saves electricity. Finally, check the flue to be sure it’s clear so toxic byproducts of combustion can escape up the chimney as intended. If your system is powered by gas, make sure the pilot light is lit and a carbon monoxide detector is functioning properly. Those with wood-burning systems should also test their carbon monoxide detectors.

Inspect Your Ductwork

Your ductwork is the passages through your walls and floor that carry cool or hot air from your HVAC unit into your home. When dust, grime and pollen collect in the grates and ducts, it can obstruct air flow and force your system to work harder than it should.

During your spring cleaning, inspect the outside and inside of your ductwork for any signs of damage or leaks. These may be easy to overlook, but they can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency and cause your energy bills to rise.

Also check the outside unit for any debris that has accumulated during the fall and winter. Make sure that at least two feet of clear space surrounds the unit to prevent any clogging of its coils and to ensure proper airflow. Some of these maintenance tasks can be completed by the average homeowner, but others—such as checking electrical connections or working with refrigerants—should always be left to professionals.

Clean the Outside Unit

Over the winter, leaves, twigs and dirt can accumulate around your outdoor HVAC unit, making it harder for air to flow. Regularly clean the coils and a minimum of two feet of clearance surrounding your unit to prevent blockages. Make sure to turn off power to your unit before cleaning, and use a hose to gently clean off the debris. It’s also important to trim nearby plants regularly to maintain the two-foot clearance.

Throughout the year, dust can also collect in your vents and internal unit. By regularly clearing the area, you’ll improve performance and reduce the risk of fire. Additionally, consider connecting a germ-killing UV-C light to your system to kill off bacteria and strong odors in just 24 hours. This is especially helpful for families who suffer from spring allergies or are looking to reduce their household germs. Lastly, it’s always important to schedule your annual maintenance appointment with a professional. This helps ensure that your system is running optimally and prevents costly breakdowns later on.