5 Ways You Can Care for Your HVAC System This Spring
Something about spring puts many people in the mood for a fresh start. Some people take on ambitious spring-cleaning projects. Others start planning gardens and spring planting. Spring is a great time to get your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in tip-top shape before summer arrives.
Our AiRCO Heating & Cooling professionals want you to get ahead of the curve. Here are some simple things you can do to be sure your HVAC system is clean and in good working order before it’s time to turn on the air conditioner (AC) in your San Antonio home this year.
1. Change Your Air Filter
One of the easiest things you can do is change your HVAC system’s air filter. Most air filters need to be changed every three to six months for your system to be working optimally. Springtime is a great time to check this off your to-do list.
A clean air filter not only helps keep your system working efficiently but also filters out both indoor and outdoor allergens. Once our Texas trees and flowers start blooming, you will add pollen and other outdoor particles to your allergen mix. Having a clean and effective air filter will allow you to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ).
2. Clean, Inspect, and Seal Air Your Ducts
If you have not cleaned and inspected your air ducts, or ductwork, in a while, you may want to schedule the task with our professionals this spring as well. We suggest a thorough duct cleaning and inspection every five or six years.
Air ducts are responsible for circulating both your cooled and heated air throughout your home. Over time, dust, dirt, and other allergens can accumulate inside the air ducts. Our team will use powerful equipment to easily clean out your ductwork.
In addition, time and general wear and tear can introduce leaks and other problems within your duct system. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), you can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system significantly through duct sealing and insulation.
3. Spring Clean Around Your Air Conditioner
You probably know your air conditioner has both indoor and outdoor units. Both of these units should be clear of any debris that would restrict air circulation. Spring is a great time to check both of these components.
Your outdoor unit should have a solid two-foot area all the way around it that’s clear. Be sure to dispose of any dead leaves, garbage, overgrown plants, or other items that may have accumulated over the winter.
Take care to plants any new trees or bushes far away from your outdoor unit. Keep an eye out for animals that may have built nests inside your outdoor unit. If this has occurred, you will need to contact a professional for assistance.
The inside component of your air conditioner may be in your basement or utility area. Be sure you have not accumulated garbage near the unit or used the area around it to store items. Keep two feet around the indoor unit clear as well. Both indoor and outdoor units need good air circulation to work effectively and efficiently.
4. Consider Updating Your Thermostat
If you have an older HVAC system, you may want to consider upgrading your thermostat so it can automatically adjust your energy usage. Many new technologies are available today to help you save energy throughout your home. For example, a programmable thermostat is a cost-effective component to add to your home.
In addition, you may want to consider looking into smart technology, which can “learn” your family’s schedule in terms of when they are in and out of the house. The most advanced technology can actually adjust the temperature of a room when someone enters or leaves the room.
5. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Spring is the perfect time to schedule a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up. Our AiRCO Heating & Cooling Maintenance Agreement Memberships offer several levels, providing services and financial options for everyone.
As a result, you can have a trained eye inspect dozens of components of your HVAC system to be sure they are in good working order. Our professionals will conduct safety checks, perform maintenance tasks such as lubrication and tightening of equipment, and inspect those components that may need to be repaired or replaced.
Call Us Today for Your HVAC Spring Cleaning
Having a professional inspection will allow you to increase the reliability of your air conditioning system when summer arrives. In addition, this can help you save money on your energy bills and eliminate or minimize repair calls over the next six months.
When you are ready to schedule your spring HVAC inspection, cleaning, and tune-up, contact our trained professionals at AiRCO Heating & Cooling in San Antonio, TX. Simply give us a call at 512-537-1234 or request service online today.