Spring has sprung! In Arkansas, the warmer months are a timely reminder for homeowners to tackle a variety of maintenance tasks. Among the most crucial spring cleaning duties is dusting off and preparing your AC system for the summer time.
A little attention now can ensure your cooling system operates efficiently and reliably throughout the spring and summer, keeping you comfortable no matter how high the mercury rises.
Here’s our list of HVAC maintenance tasks you can complete in the springtime.
Replace your air filter
One simple way to maintain your home’s air quality (especially during pollen season!) is by regularly replacing or cleaning your air filter. It’s like giving your AC unit a breath of fresh air, helping it run at peak efficiency.
A clean filter enhances your indoor air quality by trapping pollutants and allergens and helps your system run more smoothly, conserving energy and reducing wear and tear. For most homes, changing the filter every 90 days is a good rule of thumb. That said, homes with pets or those with allergies may benefit from more frequent changes.
Both your air conditioner and your lungs will thank you!
Clean your HVAC unit and remove obstructions from your outdoor component
Cleaning your HVAC unit isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s crucial for its efficiency and longevity. If your installation has external components, ensure the area around your outdoor unit is free of obstructions like leaves, rocks, and sticks that can put stress on your system.
Remove seasonal covers to prevent overheating, and verify that the unit is level. An uneven base can affect its operation, so make sure that your air conditioner has a pad or base to rest on.
Check and clear the condensate drain
A crucial but often overlooked component of your HVAC system is the condensate drain line. This line directs condensation from your air conditioner out of your home, preventing moisture buildup.
Overtime, if left unchecked, mold and mildew can easily collect in there. If it’s blocked, it can actually affect how well your AC cools itself down. Here’s how to prevent mold and clean it out:
- Locate the drain line near your outdoor unit, usually identifiable as a PVC pipe.
- Every few months, flush the line with a mixture of vinegar and water to eliminate mold or mildew.
- For clogs, use gentle pressure from a wet/dry vacuum to clear them.
Regular cleaning prevents mold and protects your home from water damage and keeps your system as energy efficient as possible.
Test and set your thermostat
Your thermostat is the brain of your system – ensuring its working properly is crucial as you transition into the warmer seasons. Begin by verifying it turns on and replacing the batteries if necessary.
Start by setting it to an optimal temperature for the warmer weather. If it doesn’t work, you may need to check the power supply or change the batteries. If those don’t seem to help, contact a professional.
If your thermostat does work but you’re noticing some issues like irregular cooling or difficulty maintaining a set temperature, it might be wise to consider upgrading to a smart thermostat.
A smart thermostat allows for custom temperature schedules, adapting to your lifestyle while enhancing efficiency. This small change could lead to improved comfort in your home’s climate and your wallet.
Test your system by turning it on
Test your HVAC system, too, by allowing it to run! This is the best way to spot potential issues early on.
If you’ve cleaned your unit, ensure all parts and components are dry before you start it up to avoid any safety hazards. Your system should start up like normal. Sometimes, after a season of hibernation, your unit might creak a bit at the beginning.
However, if you continue to notice weird noises, smells, or irregular cooling, contact a technician for a professional assessment. You may need to install a new system.
An expert will help diagnose the issue and provide a solution based on their expertise. This avoids costly repairs down the line, maximizes energy savings, and helps ensure your home is comfortable even in the summer.
Check for leaks: Reseal your ductwork, windows, and doors
Leaky windows, doors, and ductwork can significantly compromise your home’s cooling efficiency, leading to higher monthly bills and an uncomfortable home environment.
A leak allows the cool air to slip out and the hot, muggy air to enter your home, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime to maintain a consistent temperature. By resealing your windows and doors with weather stripping or caulk, you can prevent unwanted air exchange.
Similarly, inspecting your ductwork for leaks or separations and sealing them with specialized (mastic or duct) tape can dramatically improve your system’s efficiency.
Additionally, improving your home’s insulation helps to keep the desired air temperature inside, further preventing the loss of cooled air and reducing the strain on your HVAC system.
Together, these steps create a more energy-efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective home environment, ensuring that your house remains a sanctuary against the heat.
Adjust and clean your vents
Adjusting and cleaning your vents is vital not only for maintaining efficient airflow throughout your home but also for preventing allergies and other issues. Regularly clearing dust from your vents prevents the circulation of allergens and pollutants, leading to a cleaner, healthier living space.
This preventative measure keeps your HVAC system running effectively, enhancing indoor air quality and reducing the risk of allergy flare-ups.
Check refrigerant lines and levels
Refrigerant levels are critical to your air conditioner’s performance, ensuring it cools effectively. Signs of low refrigerant include higher energy bills, ice on refrigerant lines, and inadequate cooling. Should you notice these symptoms, it’s imperative to engage a professional, experienced technician.
These experts possess the skills and tools necessary for accurately diagnosing and resolving refrigerant issues. Attempting to fix refrigerant levels yourself can lead to further complications; therefore, relying on a professional ensures your system is handled safely and efficiently.
Schedule a professional appointment for seasonal maintenance
Scheduling professional seasonal maintenance and inspections is an integral part of extending the life of your HVAC system, optimizing its performance, and managing your budget efficiently.
Trained technicians, like the ones at Anderson Air, will perform a comprehensive service that examines key components of your system, ensuring everything operates at maximum efficiency. This proactive approach not only conserves energy but also saves you money by identifying and addressing minor problems before they become costly repairs.
During a professional tune-up, technicians will:
- Check your refrigerant levels
- Inspect electrical connections
- Clean components like the condenser coils, fans and blades
- Calibrate the thermostat
- Ensure the airflow is unobstructed
- See if any components need repair
A thorough inspection provides insights into your equipment’s condition, identifying potential concerns and places for improvement. Also, by getting regular professional inspections, you’re upholding the requirements of your warranty and safeguarding your investment.
Want quality air care? Anderson Air has what you need.
For your home comfort and HVAC concerns, placing your trust in Anderson Air is a choice you can make with confidence. Our team of knowledgeable technicians has the experience and the equipment to provide affordable heating and cooling solutions tailored to meet your needs.
With a longstanding history of serving our community, including the regions of Springdale, Fayetteville, and Bentonville, we’ve built a foundation of trust with our clients, always prioritizing their satisfaction.
We treat our clients like family — providing exceptional customer service at a reasonable cost.
Understanding the importance of your home’s air quality, we strive to deliver top-notch maintenance services that you can rely on season after season.
For high-quality, reliable HVAC service or more information, call our office to book an appointment today.
