Spring into Action with an HVAC Cleanup Checklist

When everyone starts to talk about spring, they talk a lot about getting your body into “spring break shape,” but we’re more concerned about getting your heating and air conditioning system into shape. After all, Rainaldi Home Services knows how a Florida summer can be brutal on your home’s cooling system, and we want to make sure it’s ready to tackle the upcoming season.

That’s why we want to help you with our HVAC cleanup list:

1. Change the filter: The experts at Rainaldi like to say that there should be a change in your HVAC filter with every change in the season. In other words, every 90 days, you should refresh your system with a new filter, allowing your system to work to its full potential. Studies show that your system’s efficiency can increase with a new filter since you’re removing the dirt, dust, and grime that can inhibit the movement of clean air through your system.

If you’re unsure how to find a replacement filter, write down the model number and size of your current filter, which will help you purchase the correct size. When it comes to the MERV rating (MERV stands for: Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), we like to think the higher the number, the better. A MERV rating of 7 or higher will give you the confidence that you’re purchasing a high-quality air filter that will trap more airborne particles.

• Clean registers: The registers in your house are the last obstacle that cool air must pass through to do its job, which is why it’s essential to check that all registers are open and that they are clean and free of debris. Remove the vent, then vacuum to remove dust and dander that may have accumulated near the opening. Wash the register vents with warm, soapy water and dry them before replacing them. Make sure furniture, curtains, or rugs are not blocking the vents.

• Clean outdoor clutter: Many things can pile up around your outdoor HVAC unit if you’re not careful: leaves, dirt, grass cuttings, and debris can add to the clutter. Take advantage of the cool days by raking anything that might have been blown near or on your outdoor unit. If you have hedges planted nearby, trim those back to allow for a clearance of 1 to 2 feet. Removing clutter and things that can block your unit allows for maximum airflow, thus enhancing your HVAC system’s performance.

• Vacuum refrigerator coils: Dust loves to build up on some of the toughest to reach spaces, including refrigerator coils. Cleaning around this area can help prevent the motor from working harder, thus allowing your system to operate efficiently this summer.

• Schedule routine maintenance: Once your checklist is complete, it’s time to call the experts at Rainaldi for your annual HVAC maintenance. Doing so will ensure that your system is working correctly and is ready to tackle the hot summer months. Routine maintenance allows for small problems to be caught early, thus saving you money and headaches in the long run.

Taking a weekend to perform these tasks can save you in terms of energy usage and potential headaches in the future. Call Rainaldi today at (407) 413-9795 to discuss what you should do to prepare your home’s cooling system for the summer!