Birds are chirping, the daffodils are rising and the clocks sprung forward an hour. The signs of warmer seasons abound, which means spring HVAC maintenance should be on every homeowner’s to-do list.
Spring HVAC Maintenance Tasks You Can DIY
Many tasks related to seasonal HVAC maintenance can be completed by homeowners on a Saturday morning.
1. Clean or Replace Filters
Start your spring HVAC maintenance checklist by checking your filters. Most people should change their filters every 1 to 3 months; how often depends on where you live and the level of dust in your system. If you have pets, you may need to change your filters more often due to pet hair and dander buildup.
If you have a reusable filter, take the time to give it a good cleaning. Let it dry completely before putting it back.
2. Check All Vents and Registers
Walk around your home and visually inspect every vent and register. Ensure none of them are blocked by furniture, curtains or anything else. If they seem dusty, carefully clean them out with your vacuum cleaner and a wand attachment.
3. Clear Debris From Outdoor Units
Your spring air conditioning maintenance list should also include a visual inspection of outdoor units. Clear away leaves and any other debris that accumulated on or around the unit during the winter. Cut back any errant shrubbery and ensure nothing is stored too close to the condenser.
4. Gently Clean Outdoor Units
Use a hose to gently wash dirt and debris off the condenser and coils. You can also carefully clean the exterior of the unit with a soft brush or cloth.
5. Inspect Indoor Components
Check to ensure the indoor elements are working well. Look around the air handler for leaks, ice buildup or loose parts that might indicate a larger problem.
6. Check Your Thermostat Before It Gets Hot Out
Put your AC through a few cooling cycles to ensure everything works as it should before it gets hot outside. Turn your thermostat to cool and set it at an internal temperature that ensures the AC comes on. Let it run for at least 15 minutes before you turn it off. While it’s running, hold your hand near different registers to ensure cool air flows out.
Schedule a Professional Spring AC Maintenance Visit
While you can handle numerous spring AC maintenance tasks yourself, getting a professional seasonal inspection goes beyond what you can do on your own.
Professional AC maintenance in the spring might include:
- Inspection of the entire system, including electrical components, to ensure optimal HVAC function and safety
- Cleaning and lubrication of condenser coils and moving parts
- Checking coolant levels and draining lines as needed
- Calibrating thermostats to ensure accuracy
