As the weather warms up, you may be looking for opportunities to work outside and to enjoy the fresh air. While you likely have gardening and yardwork on your to-do list, don’t forget to prepare the inside of your home for the coming spring. After months of battling the cold weather, your furnace is exhausted. It’s time to clean your heating system and call the professionals. Regular maintenance and tune-ups will keep your furnace running efficiently for years into the future. Follow this easy checklist as you prepare your HVAC unit for spring.
Replace Air Filters
Your air filters are essential to maintaining high air quality. There is no set rule for how often you should change your filter, but it’s important to be consistent. Replace the filter at the beginning of the season to refresh your home’s air supply. You’ll also give your air conditioner access to clean air. Old and dirty filters can put a strain on your HVAC unit. Leaving an old filter in place can cause system damages and expensive repairs. It’s always best to change it immediately if you notice a drop in air quality or if your HVAC system loses efficiency.
Clean the Unit
Include your HVAC unit in your regular spring cleaning schedule. Wipe down the outer box and vacuum out any dust or debris. Check for signs of rust or corrosion on any of the parts inside. You should also confirm there isn’t any water damage or nearby standing water. Excess humidity can cause mold and mildew growths that compromise your ductwork and dramatically lower your air quality. Keeping your HVAC unit clean protects its many components and minimizes expensive repair costs.
Improve Your Ducts
The ductwork in your home plays a huge role in your temperature control. If you live in an older house, you may struggle with damaged or outdated ducts. Regular wear and tear can create air leaks that lower your home’s efficiency. Invest in duct sealing services that improve your temperature control and that lower your monthly energy bills.
You should also consider scheduling a duct cleaning appointment. Old ductwork can accrue allergens, dust, and remnants of the home’s previous owners. Improve your air quality and your home’s overall cleanliness with a professional duct cleaning every few years.
Check the Thermostat
Your thermostat may need to be calibrated if it’s not correctly registering the home’s indoor temperature. To determine whether you have a calibration issue, use a home thermometer to test the temperature. It should read about the same as your thermostat. If the temperatures are more than a couple of degrees different, it’s time to calibrate your thermostat. Consult your owner’s manual to find the calibration process for your unique model.
Don’t forget to wipe down the thermostat and to remove any dust or grime. Consider a thermostat upgrade if your current model is experiencing error messages or efficiency issues. Many HVAC companies offer free thermostat replacements when paired with other maintenance and installation services.
Schedule a Tune-Up
The best way to prepare your HVAC system for spring is with a professional tune-up. Furnaces are complicated systems made with a variety of delicate components. While these parts are pristine when first installed, they wear down over time. Many components within your furnace will need to be replaced before the furnace itself.
Regular maintenance and tune-ups can prolong your system’s lifespan and increase its efficiency. After a long winter, your HVAC system needs to be professionally examined and cleaned to remove debris and contaminants. A technician can also check your air conditioner to ensure that it’s ready for the coming summer. Season changes are a great time to schedule maintenance so that you can feel confident in your HVAC system’s safety and efficiency.
Contact Us Today
Bring all your heating and cooling needs to Heatwave Heating & Cooling in Amherst, NY. We’ve been serving Erie County communities for more than 15 years. Our team has a reputation for excellent customer service and unparalleled technical expertise. Trust our NATE-certified technicians to maintain and repair your furnace or boiler.
We can also clean and seal your ducts, install a modern ductless system, or offer indoor air quality solutions. Your family deserves the convenience of a one-stop solution. We’re proud to offer top-of-the-line services that you won’t find anywhere else. Call today to schedule an appointment or access our 24/7 emergency service.
