Spring Maintenance Checklist for ACs

As spring begins to bring us warmer weather, it is the perfect time to begin thinking about getting your AC ready for the impending summer heat. In the spring, you can take the load off your furnace while also preparing your air conditioner to take over. To ensure that your AC unit operates efficiently and effectively, you need to perform routine maintenance. Below we will discuss some basic spring maintenance checklist items to follow that will ensure your air conditioning is ready to take on the hot summer weather.

• Clean or Replace Air Filters: The first thing you should do every spring for your AC unit is clean or replace the air filter. Air filters are in place to filter out dirt, dust, and debris from the air that circulates through your vents when your AC is running. Over time, the filter gets clogged from all the particles that it filters out the air which then restricts airflow. So, if you have a reusable filter, check the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean them. If you have a disposable filter, replace it with a new one.

• Check and Clean the Outdoor Unit: The snow and wind can cause dirt and debris to get stuck in your outdoor AC unit. Take some time to visually inspect the outdoor unit and clean it if necessary. Any obstructions that hinder airflow can cause your air conditioning system to be less effective. Additionally, use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to gently clean the fins (metal mesh-like material) and coils. Be very careful not to damage the delicate fins. Also, trim any vegetation around the unit to keep it from restricting airflow. Keeping the unit clean will enhance its efficiency and performance.

• Schedule Professional Maintenance: While the maintenance tasks mentioned above can be handled by you, other maintenance can only be performed by a licensed HVAC company. It is recommended that you schedule an AC tune-up appointment with your local HVAC contractor. They will perform an inspection of the unit and perform any necessary repairs to keep your AC performing its best. Tune-ups generally include checking coolant levels, inspecting electrical connections, and lubricating moving parts. This will help prolong the lifespan of your AC unit and enhance its performance.

• Test the System: Before the temperatures rise too much, take time to test your unit. Turn it on to a cooler temperature and check to see if you feel the difference. You will also want to look out for unusual noises, uneven cooling, and unusual odors. If you don’t feel your property reaching the set temperature or notice any of the other things we mentioned, you should contact your preferred cooling contractor. They will diagnose any concerns and address them before they become more extensive and cost you more money to fix.