Spring is a much better time for system maintenance. Here’s why.
Those first warm days of spring are so refreshing and exciting. But don’t get so caught up in the joy of warmer weather that you just shut off the heat and forget about it till fall. Some smart steps now can help you save on energy and maintenance for summer cooling and winter warming.
Spring maintenance for Your Furnace or Heating and Cooling System
The maintenance steps you take will depend on the type of heating system you have. A furnace, heating and cooling system or heat pump system each has specific needs, although some steps are the same for all. No matter which type of system you have, spring is the right time to change the filter. This is an easy job you can do yourself. Write the date you replaced the filter on the filter frame with permanent marker, and set a date on your calendar to change it again in three months.
If you have a heat pump, now is the right time to clean exterior components. The condensing unit has likely accumulated bits of dirt, rock, ice and plant matter. Hose off the unit to remove these particles and stop them from getting deeper in to the system, where they can cause damage. We recommend you do this after you’re done using the heat for the season, usually in May.
This is also a good time to be certain you still have at least 4 inches of clearance under the condensing coil. Condensation will form on the coil and drip down. It needs room to drain properly. Also trim back any plant growth for 18 inches around the unit to be sure it has enough airflow to work correctly.
Yearly Inspection and maintenance
All systems need a yearly inspection. You need a technician because some problems can be life threatening and it takes a trained professional to spot them. A cracked heat exchanger is the perfect example. If this happens to your system, you could be pumping dangerous carbon monoxide into your home, making you all sick.
Because most people service their systems in the fall, getting to it now will have you read to go at a time when everyone else is scrambling to find a tech with time to come out. It also lets you find any needed major repairs or upgrades with time to spare. Would you rather have to scramble like a mad person in the fall to come up with the money or know what is needed now and have all summer to save up for it? Obviously, the latter is a better move, letting you save up and pay cash instead of putting it on a credit card and paying interest.
Let MM Comfort Systems inspect your system to help you plan for potential expenses.
MM Comfort Systems has been serving the Seattle area for more than 30 years. We can inspect your heating and cooling systems, giving you time to plan for cooler weather. Call us at 425.533.9058 or use our online contact form to schedule an appointment.
