Spring, when your heating system is ending its busy season, is an excellent time to clean it. While washing your windows and scrubbing your carpeting is straightforward, the steps to take care of your HVAC system might not be as clear. This guide will tell you what you can do safely and why you should schedule a yearly maintenance visit now.

Change or Clean Your Air Filter

Over the winter, your system collects dust and other debris that floats through the air in your home. The filter traps many of these particles, which can clog it and hinder it from performing at its best. A clogged filter can even damage the system by blocking airflow and making it work harder than necessary. In the spring, change your disposable filter or wash your reusable one.

Clean Around the Furnace

Clean the area around your furnace. To prevent the risk of a fire, remove any items you have piled up near it. Wipe down the outside of the appliance to remove any dust. If you don’t, that debris could enter your system when it’s in use.

Clean the Vents

In the spring, you should clean out your HVAC vents using a vacuum. Start by shutting down the system and opening up each vent. Vacuum the interior where you can reach to remove loose debris. To clear away caked-on dirt, wipe out the vent using a damp cloth.

Cleaning the vents improves airflow throughout your home, which increases efficiency and keeps your home at a more comfortable temperature. This step also decreases the strain you’re putting on your system.

Clean Registers

While cleaning the registers doesn’t improve energy efficiency much, it helps improve air quality in your home, which can ease allergies.

Usually, you can use a damp rag to thoroughly clean each register. You can also use a toothbrush or cotton swab to clean in between the grates if needed.

Clean the Exhaust Flue

Clean the exhaust flue to ensure gases safely leave your home and don’t blow back. This also improves the heating system’s energy usage because it won’t have to work as hard.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Schedule your yearly HVAC inspection in the spring. The technician will take care of any cleaning inside the equipment and inspect vital components for damage. By repairing components early, you can save money on energy expenses and the cost of a major repair in the future.

Include HVAC cleaning as part of your spring routine. You’ll keep your system running safely and effectively, especially if it also works to cool you in the summer. If you live in Lethbridge, Alberta or a surrounding area and need heater repair services, make your first call to Charlton & Hill.