Your HVAC system is ready to be used, but is it actually ready to do its job? With warmer weather (thankfully) just around the corner, it’s important that you are attending to your cooling system’s needs. The worst thing you can do this time of year is assume that your HVAC is ready to go, only to realize that it’s not working the way it should – especially when those hot summer days are in full swing.
To avoid HVAC havoc this spring and summer, here are a few steps you can take right now to make sure it’s in tip-top shape.
- Check your windows and doors. Winter weather can do damage to the seals around your doors and windows, which is why it’s a good idea to give them a look over when spring arrives. If you find cracked or damaged seals, replace them so that your HVAC system runs more efficiently. Leaky windows and doors can cause your system to work too hard, which can make it wear out faster (not to mention your cooling bills go through the roof).
- Make sure drainage happens. When you are looking at your air conditioner, you’ll typically find a drainage hole located at the base of the cabinet. You can find it by looking beneath the evaporator fins in most models. If this hole is blocked, then your system can’t drain properly, which means you won’t enjoy the benefits of having an efficient system this summer. The hole is small, so using a paper clip to clear out debris can be helpful.
- Go to the bathroom. To check the fans, that is. In order for your HVAC system to work properly, the fans in your bathrooms need to be working efficiently as well. Now is a good time to take the covers off your fans and wash them with soapy water. While the covers soak in water, take a toothbrush to the fan blades for extra cleaning. Be sure you turn off the power to the bathroom before doing this.
And, of course, it’s always a good idea to enlist the help of professionals. Having a routine maintenance check on your HVAC system this time of year is the only way to ensure it works properly when warm weather hits.
