Spring HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Have you included checking your HVAC system in your spring cleaning routine? It’s important to care for your HVAC system at least once a year to prolong the life of your unit and prevent additional heating or cooling expenses. Here are five HVAC maintenance tasks that should be part of your spring cleaning:

• Check and replace furnace filters. Some air filters need to be changed twice a year, others once a month, depending on their type and how often you use the HVAC system. For the best filtering performance, choose high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Check the instructions manual first to determine what type of filter your furnace requires. Some filters are located inside the furnace or air handler. In this case, hire a contractor to change the filter.
• Clean the condenser. The condenser is the exterior portion of your air conditioner or heat pump. It requires proper airflow in order to work efficiently. Any dirt or other debris that accumulate on the condenser should be removed once a year (preferably at the beginning of spring). Also make sure to keep plants away from the condenser and remove any cover from it to ensure proper airflow. Leave at least two feet of space between the unit and the bushes or shrubs in your yard.
• Clean AC drainage holes. Most air conditioner units have a drainage hole on the base of the cabinet (beneath the evaporator fins). Use a paper clip or wire to poke through the hole and clear it, thus ensuring the AC drainage is kept clear.
• Regularly clean the condensate drain pan. Rinse the pan and clean it with a bleach-water mixture to clear out any dirt or mold growth.
• Clean bathroom fans. First, make sure the power is off. Remove the fan cover and wash it with soapy water. Clean the dirt off the fan blades using soapy water and a toothbrush.

These tasks can be completed with ease by most homeowners. However, there are other HVAC maintenance tasks that should be done periodically such as checking electrical connections, checking the unit’s refrigerant levels, and checking the outdoor fan motor and compressor. A malfunctioning HVAC system could even cause leaks and flood damage. Hire a certified technician to perform a thorough check of your HVAC system. For water damage repair, contact your local PuroClean office.