How Do I Prepare My HVAC System for Spring?

Four Tips to Help You Get Your AC Ready for Spring

This year, the spring equinox falls on March 20, marking the first day of spring. As we all look forward to warmer weather, now is also a good time to give your HVAC system a little TLC. Taking some time now to clear the cobwebs from your air conditioning system can help you ensure that it is ready for the upcoming summer. Additionally, proactively prepping your system in the spring can help you beat the rush of HVAC repairs that happen every summer, leaving you sweating while you wait for an appointment.

Keep reading for four tips on preparing your AC for the upcoming warmer weather.

#1: Remove AC Cover & Clear Away Debris

During the winter, many homeowners keep their AC units covered. This not only keeps snow and ice out of the AC unit but can also cut down on the amount of debris that builds up around it. However, come spring, you want to remove the cover and clear away any dirt, leaves, and sticks from the unit. You may also find that pests, such as spiders and rodents, may have found their way inside the cover. They will also need to be removed.

Debris around and in your unit can severely impact the air conditioner’s performance. Clearing it at the start of spring and regularly brushing leaves away throughout the spring and summer is a great way to keep your AC in good shape.

#2: Test Your Thermostat

All winter, your thermostat has been on the “heat” setting. As soon as it is warm enough, you should switch the thermostat to cool and turn the unit on. Let the air conditioner run for a while and see that it is still putting out cold air and that it can hold the temperature you set. If the thermostat malfunctions or you are not feeling cool, conditioned air coming from your vents, something may be wrong. Similarly, if the AC doesn’t turn on at all, you likely have a problem. In these cases, call our HVAC repair technicians for help. We will review your system, identify the problem, and provide you with a clear repair plan.

#3: Replace Air Filters

While we recommend replacing your air filters quarterly, it is easy to forget. However, you want to be sure to replace your air filters at the start of spring. Your home has been shut up all winter to keep the heat in and cold out. This can cause your home to become dustier than usual. Additionally, as flowers and plants begin to bloom in spring, you will also see an increase in pollen and other allergens in the air.

Replacing your air filters in March will not only help improve the air quality in your home, but it can also help reduce your allergy symptoms and help your system run more efficiently. If you are unsure how to replace your filters or do not know which filters you need, reach out to Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for guidance.

#4: Schedule Seasonal Maintenance

After sitting unused for several months, your air conditioning system needs to be refreshed and checked over by a professional. We recommend that your HVAC system be checked seasonally – once each in the spring and the fall. March is the perfect time to schedule your annual air conditioning maintenance.

There are many benefits to scheduling professional HVAC maintenance, the primary one being that it gives you the chance to get ahead on any repairs, ensuring that you do not have a disruption in your service. Furthermore, you will find that, over the years, regular AC maintenance helps extend the life of your existing system, saving you money on repairs and replacements over time.

To schedule your seasonal AC maintenance, send us a message online today. We are standing by and ready to help!