Spring clean your A/C

Plan now to keep your home cool this summer

Some people tackle spring cleaning by decluttering and scrubbing their home — while missing the most vital equipment saving them from a sweltering summer.

Many people welcome the season’s warmer weather with a thorough spring cleaning of their home. This frequently includes focusing on sprucing up living spaces — or getting to that long to-do list, such as cleaning out a garage or attic. Yet this can also be the perfect time to clean up your heating and cooling system from the winter’s gauntlet while preparing your system for the extensive demand needed to keep you cool in the summer. Add these tasks to your spring cleaning checklist to prepare your air conditioner for warmer weather.

Check the batteries in your thermostat. The changing seasons can be the perfect time to check the battery levels and see if they need replacement. Many battery-powered thermostats, including some Wi-Fi thermostats, have an indicator to let you know when the battery levels are low.

Check and change your air filter. Your heating and cooling system features an air filter to help keep dust, allergens, and other particles from infiltrating your system and entering your home. The changing seasons can be a good time to check your filter and replace it as needed. 

Lightly spray off any debris that may have collected on your outdoor unit. Over the winter, dirt, yard debris, and other gunk may have accumulated on your outdoor air conditioner unit or air source heat pump. You can check the system and lightly rinse off any collected dirt and yard debris as needed. Be sure to use a light spray; a jet or hard pressure can potentially damage the air conditioner or heat pump.

Schedule an HVAC tune-up with a contractor. This is the ideal way to prepare for the summer. A qualified HVAC contractor will tune up your system and make any needed repairs to ensure it’s prepared for the summer.

Proper maintenance can maximize your heating and cooling system’s efficiency and lifespan. Proper planning can also address any issues that could cause more damage or even system failure. Contact your local electric cooperative’s energy advisor for other tips and advice on supporting your home’s heating and cooling system.