An HVAC unit is usually one of the most expensive installations on any residential property. And yet, people do not pay much attention to its maintenance. As a result, many end up spending a fortune on repairs that they could have easily avoided. If you, too, have been procrastinating your HVAC unit’s maintenance, we suggest that spring is the best time to schedule the same. Here are a few tips that you should follow to prevent any summer emergency and maintain your HVAC unit’s efficiency.

• Change Your Air Filter: HVAC systems with clogged air filters take up more energy to operate. This can drastically increase your energy bills. Regularly changing your air filters helps avoid unnecessary repairs and increases the life of your HVAC unit. A good thing would be to replace the filter every 2-3 months. However, if you live in any area where storms and rains are common, you may want to change the air filter every month. You may set a reminder on your phone or manage a calendar and work it through.
• Check the Duct Work: Another way of boosting the performance of your HVAC system is to maintain the ductwork. Any leakage in your ductwork may decrease the efficiency of your HVAC unit. Make sure you check the refrigerant levels as well. Adjust the levels as necessary – too much or too little refrigerant may decrease the system’s overall performance. We suggest that you get your ductwork inspected by a technician as he would have the required expertise and training to do the job better.
• Clear Your Drainpipe: Coming home to find your HVAC unit leaking is the last thing you want. Usually, the blockage in the condensate drainpipe of an HVAC system leads to drainpipe overflow. Several reasons could cause a blockage, including dirt, dust, debris, rust, mosses, etc. When preparing your HVAC unit for spring, make sure your drainpipe is clean and clear. To get rid of all the dirt in the condensate pipe, use a bleach and water solution (in equal proportions). Or you could also purchase a chemical solution from a local air conditioning repair in Milton, ON.
• Clean the Evaporator Coils: The evaporator coil must be adequately cleaned for the efficient working of the HVAC system. To clean the evaporator coil, you can buy a no-rinse evaporator coil cleaner from any online store or your nearby air conditioning services company. You can also cool the evaporator coils with a mixture of dishwasher soap, distilled water, and some vinegar – and it will work just fine.
• Check the Exterior Unit: Your HVAC unit’s exterior unit is exposed to outdoor elements (discarded matter, foliage, etc.), and it requires cleaning. Also, stems of plants sometimes make their way into the unit and prevent proper airflow. To maintain your system’s efficiency, you must clean the exteriors at regular intervals. Either clean it yourself or hire a technician to get that done.