HVAC Spring Maintenance Checklist
Warmer weather is on the way. But before you celebrate the first day of spring, there are a few steps to take to prep your HVAC system for significant temperature changes. Follow these four suggestions to ensure that your heating and cooling system operates safely and efficiently all season — and year — long!
1. Do An Energy Audit
Now that winter has passed, it’s a good time to sit down and total your heating costs.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has created a database of purchase and installation costs for heating and cooling equipment and energy-efficiency upgrades. Take the guesswork out of energy costs with this helpful guide: NREL Efficiency Database.
If your system is broken, over 15 years old, or repairs will cost more than half of replacement, it’s a good time to consider a system upgrade. Talk to a McCoy’s technician to determine if a repair or replacement is best. Sometimes, home improvements such as insulation and air sealing can make the difference.
2. Replace Filters
When’s the last time you changed your air filter? Chances are, you don’t swap filters each month (even though that’s recommended). But changing filters is one of the easiest ways to prevent damaged equipment. Make a note to inspect, clean, and replace air filters (if necessary) at the start of each season. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your HVAC system, leading to early failure. Your McCoy’s technician is be happy to show you how to examine your air filter!
3. Schedule an AC Tune-Up
Your cooling system has been sitting dormant for months. Just like a car, it’s smart to take your system for a test drive. A spring air conditioning tune-up can prevent costly repairs, detect refrigerant leaks, address inefficient equipment, and beat the heat long before hot temperatures make their way to your home.
Here’s a glimpse of what your McCoy’s technician will work on during an AC tune-up:
Test refrigerant levels.
Water wash condenser coil for efficiency.
Inspect contractor for proper electrical connectivity.
Inspect capacitor for leakage and wear.
Inspect/lubricate condenser fan motor.
Record amperage draw of compressor.
Inspect and tighten electrical connections.
Inspect service valve for leakage.
Inspect indoor evaporator coil.
Inspect blower assembly.
Calibrate thermostat.
Flush condensate drain.
Evaluate air filters.
4. Consider an HVAC Protection Plan
How many house calls did you have to make to your HVAC technician last year? If you find yourself saddled with emergency repairs, DIY projects, broken appliances, and costly utility bills, it might be time to consider an HVAC protection plan. McCoy’s Heating & Air offers several tiers of protection that include 24/7 emergency service, annual system check ups, free service calls, credit toward repairs, and more!
Source credit: http://www.onehourairhelp.com/blog/hvac-spring-checklist/
