Spring Forward: HVAC System Transition Guidelines for Spring

As the days and nights get warmer this spring, your attention shifts from keeping your home warm to cooling it down. Making sure your HVAC system is prepared for the changing seasons is critical if you hope to maintain home comfort and energy efficiency. Follow these HVAC system transition suggestions from the HVAC specialists at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to be sure your cooling system is primed and ready for the warmer months ahead.

Change the Air Filter

Your HVAC filter over time traps dust, pollen and other particles, reducing airflow. This requires your system to work harder. Preferably, you should replace the filter every one to three months, with exactly how often you change it determined by your system usage and filter type. Select the correct size and efficiency rating for your system, due to the fact that using an incorrect filter can overly restrict airflow and decrease efficiency. If you’re not sure which filter to buy or how to install it into your system, ask your HVAC technician during your next maintenance visit to demonstrate.

Examine the Exterior Condensing Unit

The outdoor part of your AC system that releases hot air, also known as a condensing unit, is a very important part of the cooling process. Here’s how to get your exterior AC equipment ready for another summer:

  • Remove the AC cover: If you put a cover or board over your outdoor unit to protect it from snow and ice, remove it before firing up the AC for the first time this spring.
  • Clean the unit: Over the fall and winter, your exterior unit may have accumulated leaves, dirt and other rubbish. Carefully hose it down with a garden hose to wash away this buildup.
  • Clear away neighboring debris: The area in the vicinity of your outdoor unit needs to remain clear for proper airflow. Rake away leaves, pine needles and other debris near the condenser. Also, cut back nearby any plants to ensure at least 12 to 24 inches of clearance on all sides.
  • Verify the unit is level: The concrete pad your condensing unit is placed on may shift or settle through the years, causing the unit to tilt. To protect against improper operation and premature wear, level the unit by wedging shims underneath its base. Confirm your adjustments with a carpenter’s level.

Adjust the Thermostat

Adjust your thermostat to a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature. For the summer months, 78 degrees F is suggested while you’re at home. If you feel overly warm, operate the ceiling fan to make the room feel cooler without reducing the thermostat.

Increase the temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when everyone is out of the residence during the day for energy savings. To avoid sacrificing comfort, buy a programmable thermostat and set it to resume to a comfortable temperature before you return home. This method saves up to 10% on your energy bills.

Check and Clean Your Air Registers

Dust, pet hair and other airborne waste can build up on supply and return registers, obstructing airflow. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove this mess. Then, ensure that all your vents are open and not blocked by objects, rugs or curtains.

In spite of what you might think, closing vents in rarely used rooms does not conserve energy; all it does is throw off the system’s return/supply balance. To prevent unnecessary strain, keep at least 80% of your supply registers open and unblocked at all times.

Detect and Seal Air Leaks

Leaky windows, doors and other openings allow hot, humid air to sneak in your home. To tackle this issue, scrutinize window and door seals, using caulk and weatherstripping to seal any holes. Next, search the attic for insufficient insulation or spaces next to pipes, ductwork and light fixtures. Seal these leaks with spray foam and top them with additional insulation to cut down on unwanted air exchange through the attic floor.

Run a Test Cycle

Before the season warms up, run your AC for a short while. Walk around your home and make sure cool air flows easily from each and every vent. If you find anything awry, call in a professional HVAC tech for AC repair to correct the issue right away.

Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

While DIY upkeep is helpful, it can’t replace the thorough care provided by a certified professional. Duties like measuring the refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections and cleaning the evaporator coil require specialized tools and training that only specialists possess.

Spring is a perfect time to schedule AC maintenance, enabling you to deal with issues at the beginning and prepare the system for the summer heat. Prioritize this service to experience the following benefits:

  • Lower energy costs
  • Fewer midseason breakdowns
  • Reduced repair bills
  • Better home comfort
  • Longer system life span
  • Protected warranty coverage

Why Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your HVAC Needs in Canada?

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing provides reliable AC services to ensure your comfort and satisfaction this spring. Our ACE-certified technicians are trained to provide fast, effective solutions to all your heating and air conditioning needs. For professional service that lives up to our name, phone 866-397-3787 today! 

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