Proudly Serving West Michigan & Southwest Michigan
As spring arrives in Michigan, it brings rising humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and an increase in allergens. These challenges can place extra strain on your HVAC system, making it essential to prepare it for the season ahead. Proactive maintenance will help keep your home comfortable, maintain good indoor air quality, and ensure your energy bills stay in check.
Spring Maintenance Tips for Homeowners
We’ve gathered maintenance tips you can do on your own to help your HVAC system run smoothly throughout spring. They will help keep your system in good shape and help you identify minor issues before they become major ones.
Replace Air Filters
Your air filters prevent dirt and debris from entering your HVAC system and damaging internal components. They also capture airborne contaminants that would otherwise recirculate through your living spaces. However, when they become clogged, it causes a host of issues, including airflow restrictions, which make your system run harder and longer to keep you comfortable.
Starting spring with a fresh filter in your cooling system is always a good idea. After that, experts recommend changing it out at least every three months. However, you may need to replace yours more often based on factors like how many people live in your home and if you have pets. Many homeowners inspect their air filters once a month to ensure they know when it is time to change them out.
Check Your Outdoor Compressor
Over the winter, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around your outdoor compressor, restricting airflow and reducing efficiency. To keep your system running smoothly, clear away any buildup and trim back vegetation to maintain at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides. This ensures proper airflow and prevents overheating or strain on the unit.
Clean Your Supply and Return Vents
Dust and debris buildup on your supply and return vent covers can restrict airflow, leading to uneven cooling throughout your home. Some rooms may feel too warm when airflow is obstructed, while others get uncomfortably cool. Lack of airflow through your HVAC system may also make it work harder than necessary, increasing wear and tear while raising energy costs.
Remove the vent covers with a screwdriver and wipe them down with a damp cloth using mild, soapy water to keep your system running smoothly. While they are drying, you can use a vacuum with a brush head to clean up dirt and debris in the vent up to where your ductwork begins. While this spring task helps improve airflow, professional duct cleaning may be necessary if you see excessive dust buildup in the ductwork or experience persistent air quality issues.
Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat is a crucial part of your HVAC system. It signals your heating and cooling system to turn on or off to maintain consistent temperatures in your home. You can test it by taping a reliable thermometer next to it on the wall. Wait about 15 minutes and compare the readings. If the readings are within a few degrees of each other, your thermostat is properly calibrated. Alternatively, if there is a significant difference between the readings, your thermostat may need recalibration or replacement. You should contact a professional to resolve this issue.
Professional Spring Maintenance
Professional maintenance is essential to keeping your HVAC system in top condition. During a visit, our technician will identify potential issues that may not be immediately visible, allowing for timely repairs that help prevent costly breakdowns in the spring and summer.
A spring tune-up begins with a thorough inspection of the entire system, including the outdoor condenser unit and indoor components. After the inspection, our technician will clean the condenser coils to remove dirt and debris that can restrict airflow and reduce cooling performance. They will also check refrigerant levels to ensure the system is properly charged and inspect the lines for leaks. Moving parts, such as the blower motor and fan assembly, will be lubricated to minimize friction and wear. Additionally, electrical components, including the capacitor and contactor, will be examined for signs of deterioration, and all connections will be tightened to prevent potential failures.
Before completing the service, our technician will inspect and flush the condensate drain line to prevent clogs that could lead to moisture buildup or water damage. They will also test the system’s safety controls to ensure proper operation and prevent issues like overheating or short cycling.
Once the tune-up is complete, our technician will provide a detailed report of their findings. If any concerns require attention, they will discuss possible solutions with you. With your approval, they can complete many repairs or component replacements immediately, or they will schedule a follow-up appointment.
Benefits of Professional Spring AC Maintenance
Many homeowners consider skipping professional maintenance to save money. However, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Energy Efficiency
After a professional tune-up, your air conditioning system will operate at peak efficiency, using less energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. When components are cleaned and calibrated, airflow is improved, and your system doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. As a result, you’ll notice lower monthly utility bills and a reduced strain on your equipment.
Better Indoor Air Quality
Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can accumulate inside your AC system during the winter due to inactivity and will circulate through your home when you turn it on in the spring. Thoroughly cleaning its internal components helps create a healthier indoor environment, reducing allergens and improving overall air quality.
Protects Your Home’s Value
A well-maintained HVAC system is a valuable asset, especially when selling your home. Keeping records of annual maintenance demonstrates to potential buyers that the system has been properly cared for. This can increase buyer confidence and even lead to higher offers because they know they won’t have to deal with immediate HVAC concerns.
Extends Your System’s Lifespan
An air conditioning system that receives regular maintenance will last significantly longer than one that is neglected. By scheduling a spring tune-up, you’re ensuring that essential components remain in good condition, reducing the risk of premature failure. This not only saves you the expense of replacing your system sooner than necessary but also contributes to a more sustainable home by minimizing waste.
Protects Your Warranty
Most HVAC manufacturers require routine professional maintenance to keep the system’s warranty valid. Failing to schedule annual service could result in denied warranty claims if a major component fails. With our professional tune-ups, you’ll have documentation proving that your system has been properly maintained, ensuring that any necessary warranty repairs are covered.
Your HVAC System Experts in Grand Rapids
At Service Professor, we have been serving the residents of Grand Rapids, MI, and the surrounding areas since 1978. We install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. You can also count on us for all your indoor air quality and thermostat needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
