Tips on Preparing Your HVAC System for the Spring Season

As the spring season begins, you should get started on your annual home maintenance tasks, beginning with your HVAC system. In today’s post, trusted local HVAC company Schmitt Heating & Air Conditioning shares tips on how to prepare your HVAC system for this season.

Review the furnace shutdown procedure. If you have an oil furnace, you have to make sure that you’re shutting it down properly. Shutdown procedures vary between heating systems, but they generally involve setting the thermostat to its lowest setting, waiting for the furnace to stop its heating cycle and making sure the oil tank’s shutoff valve is fully closed. Leftover fuel in an open reservoir can cause loud popping or banging sounds the next time the furnace is turned on for the season.

Replace the air filters. The air filters in your HVAC system stop dust and other particulates from getting into the air ducts. They generally get filled to capacity every three months, or even as often as every month during seasons of heavy HVAC usage. Make it a point to inspect your HVAC air filters at the beginning of the season and replace them if clogged. Air filters are user-replaceable, which means removal and replacement doesn’t require an appointment with an HVAC technician. Another benefit of getting new air filters for the season is it will help keep your home free from allergens that cause spring allergies.

Test your thermostat. You’ll be adjusting your thermostat settings as the season becomes warmer, so you’ll have to make sure that your thermostat will respond to adjustments. To test your thermostat, manually set the temperature a few degrees lower and wait for several minutes. You should hear the blower turn on, and the air from your air vents should start blowing cooler air. If the air temperature doesn’t change or changes too much, you’ll need to recalibrate or reset your thermostat. Follow your thermostat’s troubleshooting steps as instructed in its care and maintenance manual.

Call Schmitt for All Your HVAC Needs

Schmitt Heating & Air Conditioning is your leading provider of heating and air conditioning services. Give us a call at (415) 522-0966. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in San Francisco and the surrounding communities.