Springtime HVAC Cleaning

While we are entering the second year of on-and-off stay-at-home orders, we are yet again faced with another year of spring cleaning. You’re probably taking closer notice of all the overlooked dust bunnies from the past few months with all the extra time spent at home.

With spring arriving, it is the perfect time to tackle some of those long-awaited home maintenance projects and clear the dust, so to speak. You’ll get to check something off your never ending to-do list and you’ll save some money by having your home systems operating efficiently for the months to come.

Dust comes from everywhere – it filters in from doors, windows, cracks, and crevices. It builds up and can cause real inefficiency in things like your home’s HVAC system. Removing that build up will help clear the air of dirt, pollen, pet hair, dander, and other allergens.

Vents

Deep cleaning of vents should be done by a professional service, but homeowners can do ongoing upkeep with a vacuum, sponge, and some soapy water. Cleaning vents can even help save you money as the air flow from your heating and cooling system will be more efficient. Be sure to turn off the heating/AC system before removing duct covers from floors or walls. You’ll want to wash these with hot, soapy water.  While those are drying, vacuum the ducts as much as possible using a heavy-duty shop vac to ensure you have enough power to clean deep into crevices.

Filters

Filters help trap and slow down dust accumulation so regularly changing them is a must for optimal efficiency. Be sure to change your furnace and air conditioning filters at least every other month. Clogged filters reduce air flow which ultimately reduces the efficiency of your system, making it work harder, causing greater wear and tear. Don’t forget the filter on your washing machine, this is another often overlooked home maintenance task. Your operation manual has all the details needed to keep up-to-date on filter cleaning.

Heating

Annual maintenance of your HVAC system by a professional is just as important as changing the oil in your car. Keeping these systems maintained will increase their longevity, lower utility bills, ensure efficient operation, and reduce unexpected repairs. As your home systems age, they become less efficient, so pampering your HVAC annually can help get the most from your system.

AC

It won’t be long before your AC and swamp coolers will be running full speed to keep things cool inside your home, so now is the time to check on these systems. Make sure electrical connections are safe and leaves and other debris are removed from in and around the unit. Air-conditioning coils can experience buildup of dirt, dust, and other pollutants which can prevent the air-conditioning unit from doing its job properly. Buildup can also cause the unit to work harder, wearing your air-conditioner down faster than it should. Cleaning off dirt, dust, and cobwebs from grates and vent areas ensures clean air flow is possible.

Water Heater

Water heaters can build up sediment, leading to possible water heater damage or failure. Checking the water heater and flushing it helps keep the water clean and prolongs its life. Water heaters should be maintained by a professional annually.

Air purifier

Air purifiers can be excellent additions to reduce dust and clear the air in your home.  There are individual room purifiers, but a whole house purifier can work in tandem with your current heating and cooling system. Filtering the air can improve indoor air quality, reduce allergy symptoms, and improve breathing, especially for individuals with breathing conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD, and lung disorders.

While maintaining your social distancing, maintain your home as well and get rid of all those pesky dust bunnies this spring season. Your home will shine, you’ll feel great about checking items off your to-do list, and you’ll likely save a little money in the long run.