When spring has sprung, so does your household cleaning list. Air conditioning maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC unit cooling your home, so this is the perfect time to show it some TLC, too. Preparing your system and scheduling an AC tune-up before the season changes will keep it operating at its best by lowering utility bills, improving energy use and preventing breakdowns.
These simple steps from Heblon Heating & Air Conditioning will make sure your system is ready for intense use during our Mississippi heat!
Clean Home Air Ducts
Dust, dirt, mold, fungi and mildew can build up in your home’s ductwork throughout the year. If left there, they will recirculate in the house where you will inhale them daily. They can also build-up to the point that they impact airflow to and from your AC unit. Cleaning the ducts and vents throughout your home is a great way to remove any toxic substances from your home’s air.
Change Air And HVAC Filters
The air filters in your house are most effective when changed at least once every 30 days, especially if you have indoor pet(s). Maintaining this routine helps ensure that you breathe clean air and your system does not overwork due to a dirty filter. An overworked air conditioner will cost you more in utility bills, repairs and premature system replacement.
Clean Up Around AC Unit
Many things can collect in and around your outdoor cooling system throughout the year. Any leaves, branches, nests, animals or other debris near and inside the unit should be removed to keep a clear two-foot radius surrounding it. If you use a condenser cover to protect the AC during winter, that should also be removed before starting your system.
Cleaning around your outdoor AC unit will help it maintain the proper airflow and prevent expensive repairs caused by the debris.
Look For Damage On System
While you are cleaning the unit, look for any signs of wear or damage. HVAC systems have a lot of metal components that may crack or corrode during the winter, especially if yours is an older unit. Any internal damage usually forms holes or leaks, which can result in a variety of other problems. External damage, like dents or scratches, is usually cosmetic but should be inspected and repaired by a professional to prevent further issues.
Thermostat Check-Up
Comparing how your air conditioner performs with different thermostat settings is an easy way to check for any cooling issues. If you find yourself adjusting the thermostat more than usual or receiving higher energy bills without changing the temperature, there is an issue. Your thermostat may need new batteries, reprogramming or replacement.
Test Out AC System
After going through each of these steps, turn on your cooling unit. Let it run for a few minutes and see if it is circulating air and cooling your home properly. If it seems to be working correctly, great! If not, turn your AC off and call our team for a system tune-up.
Schedule Spring HVAC Maintenance
One of the easiest, and most important, ways to prepare your cooling system for summer is to schedule seasonal maintenance. Spring HVAC tune-ups can prevent up to 80% of breakdowns, create a healthy environment for your home and lengthen the life of your unit.
Even if you don’t see any obvious signs of damage, professional technicians, like ours at Heblon Heating & Air Conditioning, know what to look for and will make sure your AC is ready to go. For over 20 years, we have worked hard to serve Meridian residents according to the highest standards in the industry, with as little stress as possible.
Contact us today to learn about our SHIELD Membership Protection Plan, schedule a precision tune-up and let us take the heat off of you!
