5 Spring HVAC Tips

For homeowners, each season brings a new set of chores. Spring is a great time to check in on your home's HVAC system before the temperatures start to kick up.

Here are a few tips to get your HVAC system ready for the upcoming warm weather:

How to Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Spring

Change the Filter

After continuously using your furnace for the winter season, your air filters are likely at the end of their life. Clogged or dirty filters make your system work harder than it needs to, putting stress on the system and eventually causing it to break down prematurely. Clean air filters keep your indoor air free from allergy-causing particles and maintain proper airflow.

Typically, filters should be cleaned or changed every six months to allow your HVAC system to function correctly and make sure that it circulates clean air. However, if you are a pet owner, you should change your filters more frequently. It's recommended you change them every two to three months.

Test the System

There is nothing worse than getting the first heat wave, only to find out that your cooling system is not working. To prevent this, try it out before the hot weather arrives. These are some signs that could indicate a mechanical problem:

• Strange sounds: Listen for any unusual or loud noises when you have the system running—odd sounds can be a warning that something is not right and needs repairing.
• Leaking: Watch for pooling water or any other difficulties with the system turning on and running.
• Uneven temperatures: A forced-air system should heat and cool your home evenly throughout. If one room is cooler or warmer than others, your system may need maintenance.

Clean the Drainage Hole

The drainage hole should be clear of blockages when you start to use your air conditioner. The opening is located beneath the evaporator fins—as part of your spring cleaning, poke through the drainage hole using a wire or a clip and remove any dirt stuck in it.

Clean Around the Unit

Over winter, fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris can get stuck and gather around the condenser unit. Clean out yard debris that could have fallen on or around the outside portion of your HVAC unit. Keep a 2 to 3 ft perimeter around your HVAC unit, so debris doesn't get sucked into the unit.

Schedule a Spring Tune-Up

The in-between seasons of spring and fall are essential times to schedule and perform tune-ups on your HVAC unit, so be sure to set up a maintenance visit with A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical! During these tune-ups, we can make sure that your system runs smoothly, check out any existing issues, clean your system, and ensure that none of your parts are on the brink of breaking.

Contact our team online or by phone at (503) 694-3396 today to schedule repairs or preventive maintenance!