Spring is a time for new beginnings. For many people, that means getting the yard prepped for approaching Summer picnics and deep interior cleaning. While working through your Spring cleaning checklist, remember your HVAC system!
Your home’s HVAC system is essential to the comfort AND SAFETY of your family. Below are some Handy HVAC cleaning tips that will help you enjoy your home this season.
#1. Before you do any cleaning, make sure the power to your HVAC system is turned OFF.
This tip is most important for your safety as you don’t want to injure yourself. Even if you think you’re careful, it’s better to be safe and turn off your power as the first step before you work in or near your HVAC system.
#2. Ensure your keeping up with replacing or cleaning your HVAC filters on a routine basis.
Air is forced through the filter, but it gets harder and harder for your HVAC system to do that if the filter is clogged with dirt and debris. Dirty filters can lead to efficiency loss and costly repairs. Only use filters that have been approved by the manufacturer so you don’t risk losing your warranty. If you aren’t sure how to change your filter, how frequently, or the size, call Handyside to help!
Are you having trouble remembering to change your HVAC filter? Consider upgrading to a higher-efficiency filtration system, which improves your indoor air quality and may only require you to change the filter twice per year. Hint: If you have an upgraded filtration system and a maintenance agreement with Handyside, you may never need to change your filters again!
#3. If you have an external air conditioning unit, go outside and look at it.
Make sure that the unit is free from debris that often accumulates around it during the fall and winter. Leaves and clippings will start to build inside the unit and at the vents.
#4. While you’re looking at you’re air conditioning unit, clean the fan blades and the coils (which can also pick up debris).
#5. Walk around the inside of your home and look at all the vents.
Check the vents that blow warm/cool air FROM your HVAC system and the ones that pull air into your HVAC system. Make sure both types of vents are not blocked so that air can freely get in. (This will ensure that you get clean, fresh air throughout your house, while also helping you save money by keeping your HVAC system from doing too much work to draw air in.)
#6. Think about the last time you had your ducts cleaned.
If it isn’t in the last few years, then contact Handyside to come out and clean your ducts. All that dust and debris that accumulated can be removed so it’s not recirculating.
Summary
As you clean your home this Spring, remember to reward your HVAC system with a good cleaning! Follow these tips for a baseline cleaning, and don’t forget to enroll in our Handyside Maintenance Program that includes two deep cleanings per year to help your equipment last longer, maintain the system’s warranty, and improve efficiency!