Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist
Spring is finally here—and for many, that means it’s time for a little spring cleaning around the house. This is a great time to do some much-needed decluttering, cleaning, organizing, and general home maintenance. Not sure where to start with your spring-cleaning routine? We’ve got some ideas for things you won’t want to overlook.
Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
Even though you’ve probably been using your AC year-round here in Phoenix, the reality is that your whole system could still use an inspection and tune-up before the hottest months of the year arrive. This will ensure that your HVAC system is in safe and efficient working order before it’s really put to the test.
Scheduling HVAC tune-ups at least twice a year (about once every six months) is the best way to stay on top of any small repairs that may need to be performed before they turn into major (and more expensive) ones. Likewise, a tune-up is a great way to optimize your system’s performance and efficiency so you can stay cool and comfortable all summer long while potentially cutting down on your energy bills in the process.
Don’t Forget About Duct Cleaning
When was the last time your home’s air ducts and vents were professionally cleaned? If it’s been a few years, or if you’ve never had this done, then now is a good time to schedule this important service. Over time, dust and other debris from your HVAC system can settle in your home’s ductwork. The debris then makes its way into the air you breathe, affecting your indoor air quality and polluting your HVAC system as well.
Scheduling an air duct cleaning is a great way to have this unwanted dust and debris removed from your home’s ducts effectively and professionally. Many people also find that their indoor air quality is improved after a professional duct cleaning—and that they can even go longer in between dusting. If anybody in your home suffers from asthma or allergies, this service can also remove irritants from your indoor air and relieve common respiratory symptoms.
Mind Your Landscaping
Yes, spring is a great time to beautify your yard for the upcoming summer months. However, taking care of your landscaping as part of your spring cleaning isn’t just about looks. Specifically, be sure to inspect the landscaping around your air conditioning system’s outdoor condenser unit. Be on the lookout for overgrown grass, bushes, or other plants that could be obstructing the system’s air flow.
By taking the time to trim back grasses or other landscaping around the condenser unit, you can prepare it for a summer of smooth operation. Otherwise, overgrown landscaping can block the condenser’s air flow, causing it to work harder than it should to cool your home. By keeping things trimmed and away from the condenser, you can keep your AC running smoothly and efficiently, which could help you cut down on energy costs and premature repairs.
Swap Out That Air Filter
In general, HVAC air filters should be changed at least once every 90 days. As part of your spring cleaning, then, you may want to consider swapping yours out. This is especially true if the last time you changed it was sometime around the holidays!
A clean air filter will be your best line of protection against unwanted dust, allergens, and other particles polluting your indoor air. Likewise, a clean filter helps your HVAC system run more smoothly and efficiently.
Can’t remember the last time you changed your filter? Many people find it helpful to write the date on the side of the filter with a marker. You might also consider setting a reminder on your phone to swap out your filter every three months.
Dust, Mop, and Declutter
A little dusting, mopping, and general decluttering also goes a long way when it comes to spring cleaning. Generally, it’s best to do any decluttering before you mop or dust, as doing so usually kicks up a fair amount of dust in itself. As you declutter your home, consider setting aside separate piles or boxes for things you want to donate, things you want to sell, and things that may be better off in the trash.
From there, mopping and dusting is a great way to get rid of any debris or pollutants that may have settled on your home’s hard surfaces. While it’s a good idea to dust and mop regularly, you might want to be a little more thorough with your spring cleaning. This may include moving furniture and other trinkets around to get those hard-to-reach areas.
In Need of HVAC Service?
Your home’s HVAC system will likely be working hard in the coming months, so make sure it’s ready to take on the challenge. Schedule your spring-cleaning tune-up and inspection with our team at One Stop Heating & Cooling today! You can reach us any time by calling (623) 688-6556. You can also stay on top of the latest news by following our blog.
