Spring Cleaning for Your HVAC System

Spring is a good time to get your HVAC system ready for the cooling season ahead, instead of waiting until warmer temperatures arrive this summer. When hot temperatures finally come, all you’ll have to do is turn the equipment on for the most energy efficient and dependable cooling you’ll need.

Homeowner Projects

• Change the air filter for the blower compartment. A dirty air filter is the most common culprit associated with high cooling costs and premature part failure. Clogged filters slow the velocity of the air entering the blower and flowing over the evaporator coil, slowing the cooling process, as well as the amount of air going into the ductwork.
• Clean the outdoor condenser. Remove any dead vegetation around the condenser and gently hose off the condenser coil and fins. If you find old grass clippings stuck to the coil, obtain some coil cleaner from your local home center and use the spray according to the can’s directions. Do not use a forceful spray on the coil, since it can easily damage the coil and the fins.
• Inspect the registers for dust accumulations. You can vacuum them using a soft brush attachment, or, for heavier deposits, unscrew the registers and soak them in a sink.

Professional HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC professional should go through the entire HVAC system once a season to thoroughly clean and adjust it. The cost of the service call almost always pays you back in better efficiency and performance. Expect the technician to:

• Inspect the electrical components and clean, tighten and lubricate if necessary.
• Check the refrigerant level and adjust if required.
• Deep clean the indoor evaporator coil and outdoor condenser coil, if necessary.
• Oil the motors and inspect and tighten the belts.
• Test the thermostat and recalibrate, if necessary.

Maintaining your HVAC system yourself and using professional help assures you that your system will run dependably and efficiently.

To learn more, contact Sobieski Services. Our goal is to help homeowners in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey learn more about energy and comfort issues to save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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