Use these spring-cleaning tips to prepare your air conditioning unit for the summer season…

It’s that time of year, when Spring cleaning signals a time of better temperatures in the northern states. Spring-cleaning is also the prime time to tweak the air conditioning unit, preparing it for an up and coming new season. After four to five months of being inactive, particularly, systems 10 years older require annual maintenance to keep an HVAC unit running efficiently.

Regular maintenance assures that the HVAC system is operating at peak performance without putting drains on the overall energy load. With a dirt-laden blower, the heating system’s efficiency decreases by 30 percent.

A clogged heat pump or condenser coil may become clogged, impelling the HVAC system to work harder, contributing to spikes in the electrical bill and ultimately damaging the entire system.

Every five to six weeks, make it a habit to replace dirty air-conditioning filters. Consider replacing an old filter with a high efficiency particulate arresting (HEPA) filter. Since these filters are designed to entrap the smallest of particle matter, and last for up to 6- months, the HEPA supports indoor air quality. Although fiberglass filters are effective, they only have a one-month life span.

In the bathroom, be sure to remove fan covers to wipe away any dust.

Another air conditioning spring-cleaning task that should be easy to do-it-yourself is the drainage hole of the AC unit.

Check the drainage hole, which is located at the base of the air conditioner’s cabinet (underneath the evaporator pins). When dirt, dust and residue collect in this space, it inhibits the air conditioning unit from working properly. To check for any build up, use a small wire (in example a paper clip) to clear the hole.

To maximize the lifespan of your dehumidifier, dismantle the housing unit, allowing the device to dry completely.

As for checking the mechanical parts of your air conditioner, contact an HVAC contractor with more than 40 years of experience.