As the weather continues to warm up and flowers begin to bloom, it’s the perfect time to tackle spring cleaning tasks around the house. While you’re dusting, decluttering, and organizing, don’t forget about your HVAC system. Spring is an ideal time to give your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system some attention to ensure it’s running efficiently. Not only does regular maintenance help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, but it can also lead to significant energy savings. Check out this short and simple HVAC spring cleaning guide for tips and statistics that highlight the benefits of this essential home maintenance.
Change Your Air Filters:
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve HVAC efficiency is by regularly changing your air filters. Clogged or dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%. In addition to these nice energy and money savings, changing your air filters also helps filter out pollutants and allergens that can irritate your immune system.
Clean Your Vents and Registers:
Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris can accumulate in your vents and registers, hindering airflow and reducing efficiency. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from these areas. By keeping your vents and registers clean, you’ll ensure better air circulation throughout your home and improve HVAC performance.
Schedule Professional Maintenance:
While DIY maintenance tasks are essential, scheduling annual professional maintenance for your HVAC system is crucial for optimal performance. A trained technician can inspect your system, clean components, lubricate moving parts, and identify any potential issues before they escalate. According to Energy Star, regular maintenance can improve HVAC efficiency by up to 20%. Experts recommend your HVAC system be inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least once a year– making spring cleaning the perfect time to get it out of the way and ensure good air quality all summer.
Seal Duct Leaks:
Leaky ductwork can waste energy by allowing conditioned air to escape into unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces. Seal any visible leaks using duct sealant or foil tape to prevent air loss and improve efficiency. The Department of Energy estimates that sealing duct leaks can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.
Install a Programmable Thermostat:
One thing that should have been on your HVAC spring cleaning guide for the last couple years is the installation of a programmable thermostat. Along with health and sleep benefits, upgrading to a programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine, optimizing energy usage and reducing utility bills. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that homeowners can save about $180 per year by properly using a programmable thermostat and maintaining energy-efficient settings. Great ways to maximize your savings include turning the system off during vacations, having the system a few degrees cooler while you sleep during the winter months and vice versa, and turning the system off when the weather is nice enough for open windows.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up your home; it’s also an opportunity to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. By following these HVAC spring cleaning tips and investing in regular maintenance, you can enjoy lower energy bills, improved indoor air quality, and enhanced comfort throughout the year. Don’t overlook the importance of caring for your HVAC system – it’s an investment that pays off in both savings and peace of mind. Schedule your yearly inspection with us today and use this coupon for $89 off your A/C tune up!
