Colorado has a unique climate that may present challenges when trying to keep your home comfortable, especially during the spring. Overnight temperatures may drop to frigid levels, while the daytime high may get hot enough to warrant running your AC on the same day. Use this guide to learn how to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the season ahead.
Change Your System’s Air Filter
One of the best ways to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for the change of seasons is to replace the air filter. When it gets clogged, air can’t flow through the system effectively, reducing your home’s heating and cooling efficiency.
Most homes need their HVAC filter replaced every 30 to 90 days. However, yours may need to be changed more often based on factors like how many people live in your household and if you have pets. You will also need to change filters with high MERV ratings more frequently because they capture more airborne particles than lower-quality ones. Ideally, check your filter every month so that it becomes routine and you don’t accidentally neglect it. Monthly checks also ensure that it gets changed before restricted airflow has a chance to strain your system.
Check and Clear Around Your Outside AC Unit
Now that the weather is warming up, it’s important to prepare the outside unit so that your AC is ready to run. Start by doing a visual inspection of the unit, looking for any signs of corrosion like rust. Also, look at the fins on the condensing coil to ensure they have not become bent. If you notice bent parts or corrosion, consider contacting an HVAC professional to address the issue.
Next, make sure to clear the area around the unit so that air can easily flow through it. Manufacturers usually recommend keeping at least 2 feet around every side of the unit and 5 feet above it clear. You may have to trim landscaping like trees and bushes to provide your condenser unit with breathing space.
Maintain Your Home’s Humidifier
Most people in the area know how dry the air is throughout the year, and to get better comfort in your home requires humidifying your air. If you still need to get a whole-house humidifier, an HVAC technician can install one that works with your current HVAC system. They allow for precision air moisture control. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends maintaining your home’s humidity between 30% and 50%.
If you already have one, take the time to maintain your humidification system in the spring so that it is ready for summer. Start by making sure to change the filters. Next, clean the system according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. This cleaning is critical to prevent the development of mold and mildew that could circulate through your home’s air and aggregate allergies and asthma.
Inspect Your Home’s Vents
Your system circulates conditioned air by creating high air pressure at the supply vents and low air pressure at the return vents. During winter, some vents may have been accidentally closed or blocked by rugs, furniture, or curtains. Check to make sure that all of your vents are in the open position and clear. Ideally, keep 6 inches above and around each supply vent clear. This task will ensure your HVAC system has proper airflow and prevents hot and cold spots.
Get Your Spring HVAC System Tune-Up
Finally, schedule your spring HVAC system tune-up. These usually focus on your air conditioner and will ensure it’s ready for the season and reduce the risk of mid-season breakdowns when you need it the most. During a tune-up, a technician will clean the system’s internal parts, including the coils and fans, tighten mounting hardware and electrical connections, and run a wide range of tests, including checking the refrigerant level. AC maintenance ensures the system is cooling correctly and running efficiently, which may save you money on energy bills.
Contact the Pros
For the last 15 years, homeowners around Northglenn have turned to Unique Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. for heating and cooling services they can depend on. Our team provides heating and air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation. We are also indoor air quality experts and provide services like duct cleaning. Contact us today to schedule a spring maintenance visit with one of our NATE-certified technicians.
