As winter progresses through its final weeks, we turn to the growth, warmer weather, and beautiful colors of spring. To be fully prepared for the new season, we need to take a look at our homes–especially our HVAC systems–to ensure they are in the right shape to handle the warmer temps.

Here is what you need to know about preparing for seasonal changes and tips from an HVAC contractor to make sure your home is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for the new season.

Tip #1: Either Clean or Change the Air Filter

The air filter in your HVAC system is what keeps allergens, dust, and other substances out of the air your family breathes. It also ensures that your system runs efficiently. Check your air filter to see if it is clogged and either clean it or change it out for a new one. This is something you can usually do on your own without the help of a HVAC contractor.

Tip #2: Clean Your Outdoor Unit

Air conditioners usually have a unit outside your home. This means they can easily get clogged with debris, infested with rodents, or be otherwise compromised. An HVAC contractor would suggest you take a good look at your outdoor unit before spring hits and clean out anything you can to keep it running its best.

Tip #3: Check the Ductwork

Obstructions in the ductwork can impede the flow of air and make your unit run less efficiently or block the air altogether. Checking your ductwork by yourself is usually not the best solution, so it’s a good idea to have an HVAC contractor come out and do a proper inspection for you.

Tip #4: Clean Vents

Vents can easily get clogged with dust, debris, pet hair, and other substances that impede air flow and make the air in your home less healthy to breath. You can usually clean out vents with a vacuum cleaner or you can remove the vent covers to ensure a deeper clean.

Tip #5: Check Your Insulation

While it’s not technically a part of your HVAC unit, your insulation can have a big impact on the comfort of your home as well as its energy efficiency. Check for leaks around doors and windows to make sure they are properly insulated. Now may also be the time to add some extra insulation to the attic if you believe it’s needed.

Tip #6: Get Professional Maintenance

Want to make sure your HVAC system is all set to go before the first warm days arrive? The best way to be prepared is to have a comprehensive inspection from an HVAC contractor. A pro can check all the above as well as do a cooling/heating test to make sure your AC is ready for the season and your heater is in the right condition to start functioning again in the fall.

Call an HVAC Contractor Today

It’s never too early to prepare for spring. When you call an HVAC contractor now, you can get an inspection scheduled before the first warm days appear and they are booked out for weeks in advance.