As temperatures rise in Newburgh, NY, you’ll start relying on your air conditioning to stay comfortable. However, if you haven’t had your system serviced since last year, it may not be ready for upcoming summer use. Spring is the perfect time for seasonal maintenance to improve efficiency, prevent breakdowns and extend equipment life span. Investing in a yearly tune-up helps ensure your HVAC system keeps your home cool all summer.
1. Cleaning and Changing Air Filters
When warm weather hits, HVAC air filter checks become vital for efficiency. Dusty and clogged filters make systems work longer to reach the set temperatures, pushing airflow and wasting energy. Experts suggest inspecting filters at least once every 90 days. It’s also important to swap disposable filters or rinse reusable models. Wrong filter sizes may not fit and may not be effective. While you can change out the air filter yourself, a professional technician can also help with this.
2. Inspecting and Cleaning HVAC Coils
Evaporator and condenser coils allow HVAC systems to produce hot and cold air but only when kept free of debris buildup. As dust and dirt accumulate on the thin metal fins of these heat transfer components, airflow becomes obstructed, forcing units to run longer to reach desired temperatures. That wastes money while shortening equipment life. During maintenance, your technician will carefully brush and spray down AC coils with specialty cleaners. Allow the professionals to handle this complex disassembly and inspection to protect the components for optimal future performance.
3. Checking Refrigerant Levels
It’s essential to visually inspect the refrigerant lines and components that circulate coolant through AC systems. Your technician will look for any signs of damage, like cracks or leaks that cause costly refrigerant gas to escape, decreasing efficiency and increasing energy bills. Warning signs of leaks include warm airflow or units continuously running without reaching the set temperature.
Only certified HVAC technicians have the expertise to safely handle refrigerants and recharge systems to optimal pressure levels for peak performance. Attempting DIY charging risks equipment damage and violating environmental regulations. Schedule professional preventative maintenance with Polar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to maximize operation and avoid refrigerant loss for best results.
4. Examining Thermostat Settings
As warmer weather arrives, ensure your thermostat accurately controls temperatures to prevent energy waste. Our technicians can check for loose wiring connections or reading errors by comparing displays to external thermometers. Recalibration or leveling adjustments help prevent discomfort. Consider upgrading a manual thermostat to a smart thermostat that optimizes settings based on occupancy sensing and schedules. They have Wi-Fi connectivity that allows remote adjustments via smartphone apps. Precise temperature regulation saves money while sustaining comfort.
5. Examining Electrical Components
If left unchecked, electrical issues can disrupt HVAC system operation and present safety risks. As the weather warms, technicians methodically inspect all connections and contacts for corrosion and loose wiring, which cause power fluctuations. Using expertise and proper precautions, the technician identifies sparks or smells indicating problems requiring immediate attention to prevent failures.
Refrain from attempting DIY work here because complex diagnostics tools and training are necessary for thorough assessments. Allow only qualified specialists to ensure your cooling and heating system’s electrical integrity, avoiding makeshift fixes that increase fire hazards and premature breakdowns. Professional evaluations done now give you peace of mind during peak months.
6. Lubricating Moving Parts
HVAC systems contain motors, fans, valves, and switches that are constantly in motion during operation. The friction between components accelerates wear over time, decreasing performance. Proper oiling or greasing ensures continued smooth functioning and protects the HVAC from premature failures. As HVAC devices are complex and sealed mechanisms, only trained technicians can strategically access and adequately coat essential parts, which include blower bearings, fan motors and condensate pumps.
Attempting DIY lubrication risks dripping fluids onto hot internal elements, creating dangerous breakdowns and fires. Allow our experts to restore efficiency to your unit through targeted, equipment-specific lubricant applications that prolong your system’s life span.
7. Inspecting and Sealing Air Ducts
Leaky ductwork forces HVAC systems to work harder, pushing conditioned air through gaps and wasting electricity. Have a professional examine vents and connections for detachments, letting outdoor air infiltrate as seasons shift. Look for dust streaks or listen for whistling sounds, indicating cracks and tears. Professional assessments using smoke testing accurately identify less-apparent holes. Experienced professionals can seal compromised spots and realign separated pipeline pieces, preventing energy wastage. Restoring duct integrity ensures airflow optimizes temperature regulation using minimal energy.
8. Cleaning and Inspecting Outdoor Units
Proper maintenance of an air conditioner’s outdoor condenser for things like debris prevents blockages from compromising summer cooling. Carefully clear leaves or other accumulations obstructing airflow, which is essential for heat transfer. Involve a technician to scrutinize the sealed cabinet and pipes for dents or corrosion. Ensure unchecked plant growth isn’t infringing near the unit or vents. A professional evaluation is essential to sustain optimal external conditions, detect less visible wear, and prolong the life span of the AC.
9. UV Light Installation for HVAC Systems
As heating and cooling systems circulate air, mold, bacteria and microorganisms get trapped, later releasing as particles into your home. This spring, consider professional ultraviolet light installation as part of annual servicing. UV-C rays eliminate buildup on coils and inside ductwork, eradicating lingering odors or illness triggers. Allow an expert to place specialized fixtures for maximum exposure and safety. Routine disinfection combats indoor pollution sources, creating cleaner airflow to let you breathe easier. This investment offers whole-home air purification, which will keep you comfortable.
10. Energy-Efficient HVAC Upgrades
This spring, consider an efficiency upgrade when servicing outdated HVAC equipment. The latest high-SEER air conditioners, multi-stage compressors, and inverter heat pumps utilize innovative designs, allowing quieter and more precise temperature control using less energy.
You might also consider zoned layouts, which entail heating or cooling only occupied spaces. Professional installation and rebates can help offset these investment costs to slash energy expenditures while also reducing your environmental footprint. Cut expenses and sustain year-round comfort with a customized, modern system replacement.
11. Check the Drain Line
Clogged condensate drainpipes cause water to pool inside air conditioning units, risking mold growth and rust corrosion. Before the summer, have a professional inspect the removable bottom tray for standing water, which indicates potential blockages. If left unchecked, it will overflow and cause damage.
Allowing an HVAC technician to clear the obstructions and confirm unobstructed drainage is advisable to prevent water-related repairs later. Take advantage of warmer, dry weather this spring for easy access. Restore free flow through professional assessments, sustaining drip-free cooling operation and indoor air quality as temperatures rise.
Scheduling a Spring HVAC Maintenance Checkup
The best way to ensure air conditioning reliability over the summer is by calling an HVAC technician for a comprehensive tune-up before summer. Through examinations and cleaning, these specialists will identify and address any issues, optimize performance and prevent frustrating breakdowns on sweltering days ahead.
Polar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning provides first-class plumbing, heating and air conditioning services in Newburgh, NY. We are a BBB-accredited business as well as ACCA and BNI members. We also offer financing options on approved credit for installations with a simple application process. Contact us for all your HVAC needs.
