HVAC Springtime Cleaning Checklist

Many cleaning chores are waiting for you in the spring, especially for vital and costly equipment like HVAC systems. Such a system, if not cleaned for long, can start showing signs of malfunction.

The detailed HVAC cleaning procedure can be overwhelming for you. You can do it fast and efficiently if you have got a checklist of the steps to follow. This article contains some of the best steps to follow when you're looking to clean your HVAC system in springtime.

Let's get started.

1. Change the Filter

The changing of the season usually signals the perfect time to change your filter. There're various benefits of doing this, including making your air conditioning unit work smoothly. It also is the best way to save energy by more than 5%.

If you have allergies or own pets, you may need to change filters more often. Changing it increases the quality of air supplied to your home. Remember to check the hose that directs the draining moisture in the correct position and working perfectly.

2. Clean Your Ducts

Your springtime cleaning won't be complete if you do not clean your ducts. As you know, ducts work to circulate warm or cool air depending on the season throughout your home. Air duct cleaning works as a temporary solution that improves air quality.

It is the best way to remove dust particles that have gathered on your ducts. But then, ducts can be prone to damage depending on how you clean them. If possible, you should have a professional do the cleaning for you.

3. Clean Return Air Vents

The air that flows through the HVAC system can carry with it some dust particles. These particles end up building up on the air vents messing up the otherwise fresh air that you should expect. Remove the air vents and clean them separately or do it while they're still in position.

A vacuum hose is the best tool you can use to clean the air vents. You can remove tough deposits using a rug, especially in tight spaces that require proper cleaning before they get blocked.

4. Clean Floor Registers

Another way to maintain your HVAC system is to make sure that the floor registers are clean. There're lots of dirt that can get into the floor registers and require cleaning before they accumulate. The first thing to do is unscrewing the vent from your floor.

Next is to place it in soapy water and using a rag or sponge to clean the debris. Let it dry completely before you reinstall it on the HVAC system. Take care not to damage the exposed ductwork in this process.

5. Clean Your Air Conditioner Unit

The winter usually leaves the outdoor air conditioning unit dirty. With a lot of debris on the air conditioning unit, cleaning it should be your next step. You should remove any soil and grass that could be too near to the unit first.

Next, please turn it off and start cleaning the entire unit. Keep an eye on the exterior components to identify and replace any that seem broken. Repairing it during springtime makes it easy to avoid interruptions during summer.

6. Dust and Mop

Dusting and mopping the HVAC system is something that should happen more often. But then, you should ensure that you do it in springtime as that's when you do not need it often. It is vital for you, especially if you usually open your windows.

If your windows are open more often, the air flowing into your home can mess the surfaces of your HVAC system. Ensure that you dust and mop it gently to protect any moving parts that can be prone to damage.

7. Adjust the Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are important for every home, and you should install them before summer. The best thing about using a programmable thermostat is that it gives you the best results. Consider it this spring to make air conditioning more efficient.

The best thing about a programmable thermostat is that it helps in energy saving. Your HVAC system won't run when there's no need for cooling if your thermostat is programmable. That goes a long way to make your home more comfortable.

8. Dust off Electronics & Lights

Electronics and lights are vital for your HVAC system. It is important to ensure that they're in the right condition before spring ends. Dust is one of the main problems that lighting and electrical parts could be experiencing on your HVAC system.

The first thing you need to do is remove all the dust from your unit's electronics and lighting parts. That also helps to remove any dust that has gathered on the blades. All these make your HVAC unit more efficient and in the right condition.

9. Turn on Fans

As you know, your HVAC system should help in the summer and winter months. Therefore, you do not need it as it can be costly to maintain if using it throughout the year. Spring is for the fans to maintain fresh air in your home.

When cleaning the unit, make sure that you turn on the fans. The dust you vacuum from the HVAC surfaces could end up settling on other parts of the system. Fans can help take the dust particles away from the surfaces to ensure that your cleaning efforts don't go to waste.

Conclusion

Those are some of the important things to include in your HVAC cleaning process. It is always essential to have your HVAC system checked regularly. Inspecting it every start of the season makes it easy to know how much cleaning it needs and contributing to maintenance.

If well maintained, your HVAC system can be in the correct condition for many years to come. You can also hire a professional to help you clean it without damaging any parts. If you want to DIY, then the tips mentioned above will be invaluable.