Spring is the ideal time to give your HVAC system the attention it needs before the summer cooling season begins. Here's a complete spring HVAC checklist — what you can do yourself and what's worth calling a professional for.
DIY Spring Tasks
Replace the air filter: If you haven't changed it since fall, now is the time. Start the cooling season with a fresh filter.
Clean supply and return vents: Remove vent covers and vacuum out accumulated dust. Wipe the covers clean before reinstalling.
Clear the outdoor unit: Remove any debris (leaves, dirt, vegetation) that accumulated around the outdoor condenser unit over winter. Trim any vegetation to maintain at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides.
Gently clean the condenser fins: Using a garden hose on a gentle setting, rinse the condenser coil fins from the inside out to remove dust and debris. Don't use a pressure washer — it can bend the fins.
Check the condensate drain: Pour a cup of diluted bleach or white vinegar into the drain line access port to prevent algae buildup before cooling season.
Test the system: Turn on the AC and verify it's cooling properly. Check that all vents are delivering cool air and that the thermostat is responding correctly.
Check CO and smoke detectors: Test batteries and replace if needed.
Professional Spring Tasks
While the DIY tasks above are valuable, a professional tune-up goes deeper:
- Refrigerant level check and leak inspection
- Electrical connection tightening and inspection
- Capacitor and contactor testing
- Blower motor inspection and lubrication
- Evaporator coil cleaning
- Thermostat calibration
On Time Home Services is offering a $49 summer AC tune-up through the end of June. Call us at (951) 277-6895 to schedule in Temecula, Murrieta, or Menifee.