The Demands on HVAC Units This Spring Are Not to be Ignored

The arrival of spring signals the time when homeowners in the Coastal Bend area start their summer-preparation tasks. With our mild winters, our A/C units don’t get as much of a break as in other parts of the country. On the other hand, they do get more of a workout during the summer. They deserve some tender loving care as part of your annual spring cleaning.

How to Check for Spring HVAC Problems

Spring HVAC problems can pop up thanks to the increase in plant growth and pollen. One of the most important things you can do in preparing your HVAC system for its summer exertion is to give your outdoor condenser unit a careful inspection.

What should you be looking for? Check the area around your condenser unit for plants that have started to grow nearby. Remove any plants that look like they might block airflow. Remove any dead leaves left over from winter or grass clippings from mowing. Make sure nothing stops the steady flow of air into your unit. Air blockage can lead to higher energy bills and more wear on your HVAC system.

Another issue to look for is an unlevel condenser unit. Soil erosion under the unit pad can cause it to become unlevel. This can make it harder for oil to flow properly inside the unit and, in turn, put a strain on the coolant lines going into your house. Most of the time, an unlevel condenser unit can be fixed without even shutting off the unit. Start by raising the pad under one corner using a long board for leverage. Pack sand under the raised corner. Repeat on the other side.

Schedule a Checkup

In addition to doing your own inspection, schedule a time for an HVAC technician to do a thorough checkup on your system. During the checkup, your HVAC’s refrigerant charge can be checked and all the electrical connections inspected. Your condensate drains get checked for clogs and cleared if necessary.

For more information about stopping spring HVAC problems before they become bigger issues, contact CCAC. We’ve served the Coastal Bend’s HVAC needs since 1979.