While Nashua has relatively mild springtime weather, it does mark the beginning of cooling season. With this in mind, you’ll probably be using both your heating and cooling systems during this time of year. Before spring officially starts, it’s important to learn how to get your HVAC system ready. Whether you rely on a heat pump that heats and cools or you have standalone systems, these tips can help get you ready.
Change HVAC System Filters
HVAC system filters are often overlooked, but they are one of the most important system components. If they get too clogged or dirty, they can negatively impact the efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. Dirty filters can cause problems such as energy waste, restricted airflow, and system damage.
While most maintenance tasks should be left to the professionals, you can usually change your filters yourself. Plan on replacing your filters every three months, but consider replacing them more often if your home has poor indoor air quality.
Clean the Outdoor Component
If the outdoor component of your HVAC system is covered during the winter, you won’t have to worry too much about cleaning it. However, if it is left uncovered, you will want to clear any debris or dirt accumulation on and around it. You will also want to make sure bushes don’t block the functioning of your system. In general, there should be two feet between your outdoor unit and any nearby bushes, patio furniture, and other large items.
Check Your Thermostat
Your thermostat controls your HVAC system, so you will want to make sure it is functioning properly before spring. It is important to test, level, and calibrate your thermostat to ensure your HVAC system can maintain your desired indoor temperature.
When examining your thermostat, a professional will check for loose connections or wires and repair them. They will also check the temperature sensor. If your sensor is off by even a few degrees, the thermostat may need to be recalibrated. Lastly, the thermostat must be level. During a thermostat inspection, a professional will need to turn off your HVAC system and remove the thermostat’s cover to look inside.
Examine Refrigerant Lines
Refrigerant travels through the refrigerant lines in your system to change the temperature of the air. If there are any leaks or cracks in these pipes, your system will struggle to work efficiently. This is important, and if there is any damage to your refrigerant lines, you will want to contact an HVAC professional.
A professional can repair any damage to your lines and refill your refrigerant if needed. You should avoid adding refrigerant yourself. Not only is it unsafe for untrained people to handle this chemical, but it’s actually illegal.
Schedule a Maintenance Appointment
It’s important to schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Spring is a great time to schedule maintenance, primarily because it comes before the summer months when your HVAC system will work overtime. During a maintenance appointment, an HVAC professional will seek out potential issues and address them before they escalate. Maintenance can also save you money by reducing the number of repairs you need to make to your system. In short, scheduling routine maintenance before spring can improve your system’s efficiency and avoid breakdowns.
Clean the Drainage Line
Having a professional clean your system’s drainage line is a key part of spring maintenance. The condensate drain (also called the drainage line) eliminates excess moisture. If it gets clogged, you could experience problems such as water leaks, which can cause additional damage to your HVAC system’s components. During a cleaning, an HVAC technician will use specialized equipment to remove any dirt or debris accumulation. After this, they will typically check your system’s drainage pans and clean them if necessary.
Go Smart
If you want your HVAC system to function efficiently this spring, you should consider adding some smart HVAC controls. You can do this by purchasing and installing a smart thermostat, which offers features such as remote control and maintenance reminders. Most smart thermostats also have features such as geofencing and the ability to control the temperature in various parts of your home (if you have a zoned system). The vast majority of HVAC systems are smart compatible, so upgrading isn’t difficult. An HVAC professional can help you choose the right smart system for your HVAC system. You may even be able to integrate your HVAC system controls with other smart features of your home, such as lighting.
Inspect Air Ducts and Insulation
Your home’s air ducts are an important component since they are responsible for circulating warm and cool air through your home. If there is a leak in your ducts, your HVAC system will have to work overtime to circulate the air. If your insulation is old, damaged, or faulty, your home won’t be able to keep the cool air in during spring. Instead of facing a ridiculously high energy bill this spring because of problems with your ducts or insulation, you can hire an HVAC professional to inspect them. They will make sure your home is airtight and there are no leaks in your ducts.
Test Cooling System
Of course, you will want to make sure your HVAC system can cool properly before spring comes. A professional can test your HVAC system’s cooling unit by ensuring it can cool your entire home effectively. If there are problems with your system cooling your home, your system may need to be repaired or replaced. This is especially true if you find yourself having to make multiple repairs or your system is on the older side. Modern HVAC systems can offer more energy efficiency, as well as more advanced comfort features. If your HVAC system isn’t cooling properly, talk to a professional about replacing it before the hot weather sets in.
Make Sure Vents Are Clean
When prepping your HVAC system for spring, you will want to make sure your vents are clean and clear. Your vents are responsible for circulating the air throughout your home, and over time, dirt, debris, and dust can accumulate in them. This can drastically reduce the air quality inside your home.
By having your vents cleaned, you can improve indoor air quality and eradicate contaminants. Cleaning vents can also prevent the growth of mold. Since moisture can build up in your vents, mold can start to accumulate. When your vents are regularly cleaned, you can inhibit mold growth and prevent the build-up of moisture.
During your spring cleaning, make sure that you don’t have any furniture or large items directly in front of your vents. By keeping the area around your vents free of obstruction, you can reduce the strain on your system.
Schedule Service for Spring
Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. in Nashua can help you prepare your HVAC system for spring. Our heating and cooling services can help keep your HVAC system in top condition during the warmer months. We pride ourselves on being professional, prompt, and affordable.
Reach out to Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. today to schedule HVAC maintenance service at your earliest convenience.
