Last week we talked about ways you can get some HVAC spring cleaning done indoors, but there are things that you should do outdoors too before you are fully prepared. Here is the outdoor guide that will get you ready for the warm weather that’s coming!
Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit
Throughout the fall and winter, leaves, sticks, dirt and other debris inevitably builds up around your HVAC unit. If you notice any build up, clear this area up. If there are plants or landscaping that has seeped into the space around your HVAC system, clear this up to. This means removing access mulch, rocks or cutting back plants. Your system should have at least 1-2 feet of clearance from other materials and build up. This clearance will maximize airflow and ensure that your system is performing at its best.
If you want to clean the air conditioning fins, be sure to turn the power off and carefully vacuum the outside of the unit with a brush attachment. As you are cleaning your unit, try to take note of any damaged or misaligned panels. You should also take note of the insulation around the refrigerant line that runs from the unit to the house. If either of these appear to have problems, your HVAC technician can easily get these fixed before you start up your unit for the summer.
Wash Your Solar Panels
If you have solar panels on your house, this is a great time to annually clean them. The weather isn't too warm or too hot, so it can make the job more enjoyable. Cleaning your solar panels annually helps boost their productivity and keeps them functioning properly.
Test Your A/C System
If it is warm enough to test your A/C system, go for it! As the weather is shifting to where you no longer need to heat your house but you don’t quite need A/C, it is always a good idea to make sure that your HVAC system works so then you aren't stuck with no A/C when you need it. You can test your A/C system by simply turning it on and running it for a few minutes to make sure cool air circulates throughout your home.
We hope that our spring cleaning checklists have prepared you for the warm weather that is coming. If you have any questions, need a maintenance check or need professional assistance we are happy to help! You can reach us at 515-965-7272.