Spring Cleaning Checklist: Start with Your HVAC

It won’t be long before you turn on your air conditioner, if you haven’t already. Despite the occasional cool spell in Orlando, our default HVAC mode in Orlando is air conditioning. That means you should never skimp on preventative maintenance, including a good spring cleaning.

If you’re not the handy type, you may wonder what you can do before you schedule your annual air conditioner maintenance visit.

Here are a few things to get you started.

Condenser/Compressor

The outdoor unit of your air conditioner is the condenser/compressor. Over the winter, if it’s been uncovered, dirt, dust and debris may have collected on the fins and coils. If these are easily accessible, you can spray them off with a hose. Do not use a power sprayer. If they are really dirty, you might use coil cleaner and a soft brush.

You should also clean up around the condenser. Clear away leaves, twigs and other debris. If nearby limbs have grown within 2 feet of the unit, cut them back. Remove any overhanging limbs that might fall on the unit in a storm.

Indoor Unit

The indoor unit of your air conditioner contains the evaporator coils, air handler and condensate drain. Check evaporator coils for moisture and dirt. If you don’t think you can successfully clean them, ask your HVAC tech to perform this task.

Check the air filter and change it if necessary. Change it regularly throughout the season.

Check the condensate drain if you know where it is. This drain must be clear of clogs so excess moisture from your home’s air can be drained away. Also, the drain pain should be in good shape, free of rust and corrosion. If you don’t know how to clean the drain (a mixture of bleach and water), ask your HVAC tech to clean it.

Also, check vents for any obstructions that might block airflow. If you see dirt and dust near the vents, vacuum them.

For more on spring cleaning of your HVAC system, contact Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions We serve Orlando and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).