As the seasons change in Mesa, Arizona, your HVAC system shifts gears, working hard to keep your home comfortable. Proper maintenance is crucial, especially during the off-season, to ensure your system operates efficiently. With spring approaching, it’s time to focus on your air conditioner, while fall maintenance typically centers on heating. Before calling in the professionals, there are several tasks you can undertake to prepare your system for a thorough check-up. This guide will cover the essentials of spring AC maintenance, including:
- Understanding the importance of spring maintenance, especially in regions like Arizona
- Assessing whether your air filters need cleaning or replacement
- Cleaning vents and registers to ensure unobstructed airflow
- Checking your thermostat for accuracy and functionality
- Inspecting outdoor units for any signs of wear or damage
- Planning for professional HVAC maintenance
Let’s dive into what you need to know and do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly this spring.
Ready to schedule your spring AC maintenance? Contact Rusty’s Air Conditioning & Heating!
We’re the most trusted name in Mesa when it comes to HVAC for a reason — honest, reliable service. When you want AC maintenance that won’t disappoint you, contact us for service from a certified HVAC technician.
Why Spring HVAC Maintenance Is Crucial in Arizona
Arizona’s climate, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100 degrees, places immense demand on air conditioning systems to provide indoor comfort. During these intensely hot periods, AC units are under constant stress, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear. To prevent serious damage and avoid expensive repairs, regular maintenance is essential.
Professional HVAC technicians perform thorough services like an oil change and tune-up for your air conditioner. However, homeowners also play a vital role in maintaining their systems. Engaging in basic upkeep tasks like cleaning and vacuuming is crucial. Below, we outline the key air conditioning maintenance activities that should be carried out seasonally to ensure your system remains in optimal condition.
Replace or Clean Air Filters
Air filters typically need to be replaced or cleaned every one to three months. If your system uses replaceable air filters, ensure a fresh one is in place before your Rusty’s Air Conditioning & Heating technician services your unit. Operating the system with a clogged filter during maintenance tests can cause additional damage to the unit.
For those with reusable air filters, clean them regularly, ideally once a month or whenever you remember. Procrastination serves no purpose; however, frequent cleaning enhances your air conditioner’s performance.
Clean Vents and Registers
Vents and registers help air cycle through your home. If they’re dirty or clogged with dust, it impacts system performance. Restricted airflow means your unit has to work harder to cool your home, which also means higher electric bills. Take the time to remove the vent and register covers and give them a good wash before you turn the AC on for the summer.
Check Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is on and responsive. If you aren’t using your air conditioning yet, it’s easy to overlook testing the control mechanism. Make sure your thermostat isn’t the source of any problems you’ve noticed while preparing your AC unit for spring maintenance.
Inspect Outdoor Units
Take a look at the outdoor parts of your cooling system. Remove any branches or other debris that may clog the system. Spring air conditioning maintenance might include hosing out the exterior and ensuring it’s fully dry before calling a professional for scheduled maintenance.
Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Skipping even one annual maintenance appointment can reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency by 5%. This decline means higher operating costs, making it more expensive to cool your home. Therefore, arranging for an HVAC professional to clean and inspect your air conditioner each spring is crucial.
Regular maintenance ensures your unit operates at peak efficiency, extends its lifespan, and prevents unexpected breakdowns during the hot summer months. By investing in annual maintenance, you safeguard your comfort and avoid the inconvenience and expense of emergency repairs.
Need help with your air conditioning system?
At Rusty’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re committed to providing you with the highest quality workmanship when handling AC maintenance. We believe in delivering exceptional value and always going the extra mile for our customers.