As winter’s chill melts and spring arrives, it’s time to think about the health of your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems. The winter weather can take a toll on both, but with a little spring maintenance, you can help ensure your systems are running smoothly for the warmer months ahead. While some tasks are simple enough to handle yourself, others are best left to the experts. So, what could you do yourself—and when should you call in the professionals?
What You Could (and should!) Do Yourself
1. Clean or Replace Your Air Filters
One of the easiest, yet most important, spring maintenance tasks is cleaning or replacing air filters. These filters help trap dust, allergens, and other particles, keeping your home’s air quality fresh and clean. Over time, however, they can become clogged, making your HVAC system work harder than necessary. Regularly replacing air filters or giving them a thorough cleaning (depending on the type) will not only improve your home’s air quality but also extend the life of your air conditioner.
2. Clean Around Your A/C Unit
Spring is a great time to check and clean up the area around your air conditioning unit. Over the winter, debris such as sticks, leaves, and even stones can collect around your unit, potentially causing damage. Cleaning your A/C unit by removing any debris within 18-inches of the unit will help it run more efficiently. Take time to trim any nearby plants or bushes to ensure airflow isn’t restricted, which can lead to A/C problems down the road.
3. Check Your Plumbing Systems
Winter’s freezing temperatures can cause plumbing problems in your home. Take a walk around your home this spring to inspect for any plumbing issues like leaks, drips, or clogs. This simple check can help you catch problems early before they become major headaches. If you do spot any plumbing problems, be sure to call a professional to address them promptly.
What You Should Leave to the Experts
While tackling the tasks above will help you keep your home HVAC system in good shape, there are certain issues that require the expertise of a professional. A professional HVAC tune-up can help:
1. Protect Your Warranties
Many warranties stipulate that your HVAC systems (furnace and air conditioning) must be serviced annually. At Valor Mechanical, we provide preventative maintenance plans to help ensure your systems comply with the necessary standards to keep your warranty valid.
2. Catch Issues Early
Some HVAC and plumbing problems aren’t easily visible to the untrained eye and could lead to bigger, costlier issues if neglected. Hiring an HVAC professional for preventative maintenance can help prevent expensive breakdowns, keep your system is running efficiently, and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system.
3. Repair Rodent Damage
Rodents, such as mice, often seek shelter in outdoor A/C units during the winter, creating nests and chewing through wires, which can lead to significant damage. Scheduling a professional spring HVAC tune-up ensures your system is thoroughly inspected and cleaned before the heat sets in, so you aren’t left sweating until repairs are made.
Why Call the Experts?
Our trained HVAC professionals have the tools and knowledge to identify and fix underlying problems, such as worn-out parts, poor airflow, or system inefficiencies. Regular spring HVAC maintenance from an expert will ensure that your air conditioner is ready for the heat and your plumbing systems are functioning properly. The peace of mind knowing your systems are in good hands is priceless!
If you’re ready for a professional HVAC tune-up, Valor Mechanical is here to help. Our experienced team can keep your home running smoothly so you can enjoy the spring and summer months without a worry in the world. Give us a call today!