As winter winds down, you’re likely looking forward to warmer temperatures and sunnier skies even though you’ll have to turn on your AC unit when it gets too hot to live comfortably indoors. With the following three HVAC maintenance tips, you can ensure your system is prepared for the workload ahead.

3 HVAC Maintenance Tips for Spring

1. Make Room for the Compressor

During the winter, you may have been safeguarding your outdoor unit—the compressor—from cold temperatures with a cover. However, to operate during cooling season, remove it so the fan can pull in fresh air. To work efficiently, a compressor should have about two to three feet of clearance to any surrounding fencing, structures, or shrubs. Cut back low-hanging tree branches and nearby bushes that could impede airflow.

2. Clean Filters & Registers

Throughout the winter, your HVAC system may have collected a significant amount of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. As a result, the filter responsible for trapping these particles may have become clogged with pollutants. To prepare for spring, clean or replace your dirty filter so only fresh air recirculates throughout your home. Also, use a vacuum attachment to suck up any lint has gathered in registers and on vents. 

3. Schedule a Tuneup

The function and condition of your air conditioning system may have deteriorated a bit in winter owing to lack of use. When you turn it on in the spring, the transition from heating to cooling could exacerbate any damage, increasing the risk of a sudden breakdown later on. To ensure your system has no broken parts, loose belts, or blockages, schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment with a local technician. In addition to identifying and fixing mechanical issues, they can suggest ways to optimize the efficiency of your system throughout cooling season.

To schedule an AC tuneup for spring, reach out to Malone Heating & Air of Chattanooga, TN. They’ve been providing a wide range of HVAC maintenance services since 1980. Whether you need air duct cleaning or unit replacement, you can trust their trained staff to tend to residential and commercial systems alike. Learn more about their work by visiting the website, or call (423) 624-6647 to ask for a free quote.