Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Chicago HVAC System

The spring is the perfect time to do some deep spring cleaning, and while it’s a great idea to use this to remove the dirt and dust that has accumulated inside your home over the winter months, it’s also the ideal time to perform some spring maintenance on your Chicago HVAC system.

Performing some spring maintenance for your Air Conditioning system means cleaner air for your home and helping to ensure your system continues to run efficiently. Not only does a system that runs efficiently mean lower energy bills, but it can also save you from the need to pay for costly repairs.  It will also extend the service life of your equipment.

Here are some routine spring maintenance tips every homeowner should follow:

Change Your Air Filter

This is the number one tip every homeowner needs to follow for two reasons. It’s easy to do, and it can have a big impact on the health of your HVAC system. A clean air filter can reduce energy usage in your home. It will also improve the air quality of your home by trapping airborne particles like allergens and dust. This is especially important if you live in an area with high pollen counts.

If you have a disposable filter in your unit you should replace it monthly, and if you have a washable filter, it’s important that you clean and wash it monthly.

Check Your Ductwork

Your ductwork is also an important part of your home’s HVAC system. When checking this, be sure to check that any holes or leaky joints are sealed. You should also make sure that if there are any cracks in the duct system that they are taken care of as well.

Clear the Drainage Hole

Air conditioners typically have a drainage hole located at their cabinet’s base. In order for your HVAC system to work effectively, this hole needs to be kept clear. If not, a drainage hole can become clogged and prevent your unit from draining. This will put more stress on your unit and lower its efficiency. Clogs may also happen at the P-trap, which is not too far from the drainage hole.  Make sure to clear that as well.

Keep Your Windows and Door Closed

If you or members of your household suffer from asthma or allergies, it’s a good idea to keep windows and doors closed to prevent allergens from getting inside. In the summer months, it’s advisable to keep windows and doors closed not only to keep out allergens but also to keep the hot and humid air out. Letting in too much warm air will put a strain on your system and reduce efficiency and increase costs.

Remove Any Obstructions Around the Outside Part of the Air Conditioning System

Regularly checking on the outdoor unit is important because it is subjected to the elements. You should regularly check your unit to remove any loose vegetation or debris from the unit and ensure that any vegetation surrounding the unit doesn’t grow within two feet of it. This is necessary in order to allow your air conditioner to pull in the air it needs to control the temperature in your home. It also pays to have a service tech clean the heat sinks on the unit.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

In addition to other Spring Maintenance tips, If you do not have a programmable thermostat, now is the time to install one. Not only will this give you better control of the temperature in your home, but it may also help to lower energy bills since you can set the temperature to ensure your system runs less when no one is home.

If you do not have a programmable thermostat, this spring is the ideal time for you to have one installed. If you do have a programmable thermostat it is a good idea to adjust the settings and update your system’s schedule. Also ensure to open all of your vents.

Test Your Air Conditioner

Before the hot weather arrives it’s a good idea to turn your unit on and run it for a bit. This is a great way to tell if there are any potential issues with your unit and will allow you to schedule a repair before the summer.

Schedule An Appointment for Routine Maintenance and Servicing

Once you’ve completed all the tasks above, it’s time to bring in the experts. Even if you are consistent with cleaning and changing your air filters, keeping the outside unit clean and adjusting your programmable thermostat, it’s a good idea to have your Air Conditioning unit serviced by a professional. They will be able to take a more detailed look at your system including checking all connections, taking readings of electrical amp draw and checking the pressure of the refrigerant.  A qualified technician will also identify potential issues that may arise in the future.

Consider Upgrading Your Air Conditioner 

The spring is also a great time to have a new air conditioning system installed. If your system is old, having it replaced by a new, efficient system will save you money in heating and cooling bills in the long run. It’s ideal to have this done now in the spring, rather than in the hot summer months when your home will become uncomfortable without air conditioning and when contractors are typically very busy resulting in having to wait for weeks to have the unit installed.

This spring, remember that spring cleaning is more than simply cleaning the inside of your home and your yard. Contact us today to schedule routine maintenance or service.