Spring has sprung, and it is the perfect time for heating and cooling system maintenance. An HVAC system is often the biggest investment a person has in their home. It can also be one of the most expensive systems to repair or replace.
Ducted air conditioning Sydney owner James Ghabach explains that spring cleaning is a time-honoured tradition that keeps homes and businesses looking and feeling their best, and many things go into making up your unit, which means several things can cause problems during the months it’s not being used.
Make use of the following helpful tips for spring cleaning your HVAC system to keep it healthy for years to come.
Get your filter out and give it a deep cleanÂ
If you haven’t already, take the filter out of your HVAC system. Wash it with lukewarm water on a delicate cycle, then lay it flat on some paper towels or clean cloths so that all sides are exposed to the air. Allow the filter to dry completely before putting it back in place. If you don’t have any replacement filters on hand, put a fresh one in before running your air conditioner or furnace. This step is especially important if you notice that your cooling system has been having trouble keeping up this summer! A dirty filter is quick to blame for poor airflow and pressure, which can lead to an overworked unit. So remember: a clean filter equals a happy HVAC system.
Do a quick check of the exterior and interiorÂ
Take a look at your HVAC units from both the interior and exterior perspectives, checking for any signs of leaks or cracks that could be compromising performance or wasting energy. If you find anything that seems out of the ordinary, it’s best to call in a professional as soon as possible – especially if you spot mould, mildew, rust stains or other water damage. These problems need immediate attention before they spiral out of control. Allowing moisture to linger too long inside your AC unit can cause serious deterioration of vital components, leading to a costly repair or even complete replacement.
Examine the ductsÂ
Pay special attention to your home’s return air vents, which are often overlooked during cleaning season. Even if you can’t see inside of them, dust, dirt and other debris may have accumulated near the vent openings over time – so take a peek inside with a flashlight before wiping it clean with a dry microfiber cloth. If there is visible mould or mildew growth in the ductwork, call in an HVAC professional to inspect the system for possible leaks that can lead to serious problems if left dormant over the winter months.
Inspect your condensate drain pansÂ
The drip pan under your AC unit collects excess water that runs off into its drainage lines as your system works to dehumidify your home or office space. If the line becomes clogged, pressure could build and cause leaks – so make sure it’s free of debris and give it a quick flush with a garden hose.
Replace the filtersÂ
As mentioned earlier, this is by far one of the most important steps in keeping your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the year! As filters get older, they lose their ability to capture fine particles that can lead to serious health problems if inhaled or left for too long inside your air conditioner. Be sure to check out our selection of replacement furnace filters here.
Check ductworkÂ
Don’t forget about your home’s main return vents as you inspect your system for possible leaks. Dust and other debris that has accumulated throughout winter can contribute to pressure issues, leading to poor airflow and slow cooling speeds. Many homes with forced-air heating also use their vents as an interior design feature – so make sure they are clear of any items or furniture that could inhibit airflow entering the home.
Watch out for condensationÂ
Condensation is a normal byproduct of most HVAC systems, but it means trouble if you see puddles building up near your central AC unit during the summer months (especially around doors). This is often caused by external factors like low outdoor temperatures, which trigger the need for your HVAC system to work overtime to regulate indoor humidity levels. If this is the case, be sure to keep your interior doors open when you’re home and try setting back your thermostat a few degrees to avoid uncomfortable humidity spikes.
