Spring has sprung, and it’s time to get cleaning! Did you include your HVAC system on your spring-cleaning list? If you haven’t, you should. Your home’s HVAC system needs cleaning, too. Here’s our HVAC maintenance checklist so you can be on your “A” game this spring!
Clean the Return Air Vents
Dust and dirt can build up on your return air vents over time. So, cleaning these vents should be the first to-do item on your HVAC maintenance list.
To clean, you can either leave them installed or remove them to really get in there. First, use a vacuum hose to remove loose debris. Next, clean in between the grill spaces to remove dirt that’s stuck in there. Grab a rag, place it over a butter knife, and with some multipurpose cleaner, scrub away in those tight areas.
Don’t Forget the Floor Registers
Now that the vents are cleaned, don’t neglect the floor registers. It’s easy for dirt, pet hair, and other small items to get knocked into the floor registers in your home. It’s a good idea to vacuum over them ever so often, but during spring cleaning, you’ll want to step it up a notch.
Remove the vent cover by unscrewing it from the floor and place it in soapy water. Using a sponge or brush, give it a thorough clean to remove any stubborn dirt. With the open vent, take your vacuum and remove any loose dirt before you use soapy water to also scrub down in there. Allow the vent to dry completely before putting the cover back on. While everything is drying, make sure you don’t knock anything down the exposed ducts!
Make sure your HVAC has at least 1-2 feet of clearance on all sides.
Clean Up Your Unit
Cleaning your outside unit might seem odd, but it’s worth the hassle of getting out there to spruce it up. Debris can build up on your unit and when the weather warms up and it’s time to use the air conditioning, that debris can restrict airflow. This can cause system performance issues as well as cause you discomfort when the air conditioning isn’t working as it should.
Your first step should be turning the power off. Then you can get to work! Clear away leaves, soil, mulch, and any plants growing nearby. Your unit should have 1-2 feet of clearance all the way around to optimize its performance and maximize airflow. Clean the air conditioner fins by vacuuming the outside of the unit with a soft bristle brush. Be extra careful when you do this, as the fins are delicate and can bend easily.
Test the Air Conditioning System
Once you’ve gone through all the items on your HVAC maintenance checklist, turn on the HVAC system. Make sure the air conditioning is working as it should and that cool air is circulating throughout the house after it’s been on for a couple of minutes.
If it isn’t cooling like it should, check that the right temperature is set on the thermostat. If the temperature is set correctly and it’s still having issues, it’s best to turn the system off and call in the professionals to help.
Comfort World Air Conditioning & Heating has got you covered!
Schedule a Professional Tune-up
Whether you’ve run into a problem with your system or not, getting a professional HVAC tune-up to finish the job off is a great idea. A lot of dirt and debris can accumulate in the blower compartments, the ducts, and your condenser unit. And if that dirt comes into contact with moisture, bacteria can breed and contaminate your air supply. Scheduling regular maintenance can keep your air clean, prevent breakdowns, and save you money.
At Comfort World Air Conditioning & Heating, we know your HVAC system is important, especially in the Arizona heat! We want to help you keep it running. Let our highly trained technicians in Scottsdale, AZ bring a little more comfort to your world!
