Temperatures are starting to rise, which means that your home’s cooling system is about to work overtime. To avoid the need for emergency HVAC service during the sweltering summer heat, it’s best to do maintenance on your cooling system in spring. Here’s how.

How to Maintain Your HVAC This Spring

1. Change the Filters Regularly

HVAC systems have filters for a reason—they trap dander, dust, pollen and other airborne pollutants. When they get clogged and dirty over time, they restrict airflow and cause excessive strain on the system. In addition to higher energy consumption, dirty filters make for poor indoor air quality. Check your filters more frequently during seasons of heavy use, and have them changed at least every three months. For households with pets or family members with severe allergies, switch out the filters at shorter intervals.

2. Clean What You Can

Bust out the brushes and rags, and give your HVAC a good scrubbing. Wipe down grimy surfaces and remove any debris buildup that’s making the system less efficient. Be careful when working around the equipment so you won’t damage any of its components. Hose down your outside air condenser with water to wash out dirt.

3. Get Rid of Obstructions

Ensure your outdoor condenser has sufficient ventilation by clearing out the area around it. Trim back overgrown bushes and branches that could block the airflow. Give the unit enough space to ‘breathe’ so it won’t overheat.

4. Schedule a Tuneup

After doing everything that you can, it’s time to call in the experts. Have a licensed HVAC service contractor come in and do a comprehensive checkup of your system. They will clean the system components, lubricate moving parts, inspect the wiring, and replace anything broken or worn out. They will assess what needs to be remedied to make the system run more efficiently and last longer.

This spring, make it a point to call for professional HVAC services from Chuck Ollinger Plumbing and Heating. Serving residents in the Erie County, PA, area, their air conditioning contractors have provided exceptional AC repairs, routine maintenance, and installations for over 50 years. Call (814) 899-2809 to schedule service, or request a free estimate online.