Preparing Your HVAC System for Spring

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Preparing Your HVAC System for Spring

 

Winter is quickly coming to a close here in Portland. With spring just around the corner, it is time to start thinking about the health of your HVAC system. Soon, you will stop using your heater and switch over to using your AC unit. To help make this transition as smooth as possible, there are several things you will want to consider.

At Integrity Air LLC, we like to help prepare our clients for what is to come when the weather shifts. In this article, you will gain an overview of the best practices we recommend for preparing your AC for spring weather. No household likes to be caught off guard — especially when it is suddenly too hot to sleep at night. To help ensure that your family stays comfortable in the months to come, read on!

Integrity Air LLC is your go-to provider for AC maintenance in Portland, Vancouver, Hillsboro, Tualatin, and elsewhere in the greater Portland metro area. Based on our years of experience in the HVAC industry, we recommend the following tips listed below to help you prepare your AC for warm weather.

Preparing Your AC for Spring & Summer

Taking the time to ensure that your AC is in good shape before warm weather hits is important. Starting early with these maintenance tips will help spare you any hassles or headaches in the summertime. Some of these tasks you may be able to take care of on your own, while others may require assistance from an HVAC expert.

Be sure to contact Integrity Air if you need any assistance preparing your AC for summer!

Replace the Air Filters

Replacing your AC filters will be one of the first things you will want to take care of as you prepare your AC unit for summer. The air filter’s job is to keep out dust, debris, and air pollutants from entering your HVAC equipment. Over a short period of time, your AC filter can become clogged quickly.

If too much build-up accumulates in your filter, this excess debris will make its way into your HVAC system. This can cause an acceleration of wear and tear on the interior parts of your HVAC unit.

To replace your filter on your own, follow these steps below:

  • Buy the Correct Replacement Filter
    Before you replace or clean your AC filter, you may need to buy a new one. It is a good idea to check beforehand if your filter is in good enough shape to be cleaned and reused. You will need to replace the filter entirely at least twice a year or so. You may be able to get away with a thorough cleaning, depending on when you replaced it last.
  • Turn Off the Power
    Before you replace the AC filter, you will need to turn off the power to the unit. The number one reason for this precaution is safety. You may put yourself at risk of electrocution if you leave the unit running while you perform a filter replacement. Additionally, if you keep the unit on while you replace the filter, debris and dust may easily be sucked into the unit. Be sure to turn off the power to the unit itself, as well as at the circuit breaker.
  • Remove the Old Filter
    Removing your old AC filter should be a fairly straightforward process. Most units are set up so that the filter slides in and out easily.
  • Clean the Filter or Replace it
    Once you have removed the filter, you will need to clean it or prepare to insert a new one. To clean your old filter, you will want to check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Not all filters are built the same. Some are reusable and made of more sturdy materials, whereas disposable filters are not as durable. For the most part, you should be able to rinse the filter with water and let it dry, or you can vacuum away any dust.
  • Insert a Clean Filter or a New One
    Now you are ready to replace your old filter. Either insert the cleaned filter or the new one. Be sure to follow the instructions for proper placement indicated on the filter. Make sure that the filter is facing the right direction, so air flows properly through it.

Vacuum and Clean Air Vents

Here are some steps to follow that will ensure your vents are clean and ready to go:

  • Disconnect the Power
    Since you have to disconnect the power for both AC filter replacement and vent cleaning, it is often best to perform both procedures at the same time. With the power already disconnected from the filter replacement, you can easily move on to cleaning your vents next.
  • Unscrew the Vent Covers from the Walls
    Next, remove all of the vents from the walls. You can use a brush to clean between the grates. Or, if your vents are particularly dirty, you may need to clean them with soap and water.
  • Vacuum Inside the Vents
    With the vent covers off, you will then want to move on to vacuuming the inside of the vents. Most household vacuums may not be powerful enough to clean out your vents entirely. You can either rent a vacuum with a long, powerful hose, or enlist help from our HVAC experts at Integrity Air LLC to help ensure your vents are cleaned out and free of mold, mildew, and debris.

Reset Programmable Thermostats

Resetting your thermostat is another important task you will want to complete to help prepare your AC unit for summer. Since every thermostat model is different, you will want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular model. Resetting your thermostat will allow you to input new temperature preferences that are better suited for warmer weather, rather than cooler weather.

Clean Around the AC Unit

One of the last tasks you will want to check off your list is cleaning your exterior AC unit. It may have been a while since you have taken a good look at the unit itself. During the wintertime, foliage, trash, or other debris may have accumulated around your unit. A great rule of thumb is to ensure that there is at least 2 feet of clearance around your unit. Keeping the area around your AC unit clear will help keep the efficiency and reliability of your unit high.

Heating System Maintenance in Spring

Did you know that the best time to have your heater serviced is in the spring or summertime? It’s true! This is a smart tactic because it gives you time to take care of any necessary replacements or repairs before winter comes around again.

Before you turn your heater off and leave it alone for months to come, request a professional inspection and tune-up. Our HVAC experts in Portland often work with homeowners during the spring to prepare their AC units while also ensuring their heaters or furnaces are in good shape at the same time.

Need AC Repair in Portland?

Integrity Air LLC is one of the top AC installers in Portland. We also perform AC repairs, AC maintenance, and AC replacements. We pride ourselves on offering exceptional AC services in Portland, Vancouver, and elsewhere in the greater Portland metro area. We are unlike any other HVAC service in the region, thanks to our team of dedicated professionals, commitment to high-quality services, and competitive pricing.

With our AC unit maintenance services, you can count on keeping your household cool all summer long. It’s not too late in the year to receive an AC installation, replacement, or various repairs. Our team can make sure your unit is running properly before the hotter months come about. Give us a call now to schedule an AC installation, repair, or other services. 

Be sure to check out our other resources, including 5 Signs You Might Need an AC Repair, as well as How to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer. You can also check out our blog page for more information and articles related to your HVAC system.

Have a question or concern about your AC unit in Portland? Contact our local HVAC specialists today by filling out our contact form HERE. Or feel free to reach us any time at (503) 598-0966.