Spring is the customary time for home cleaning. It’s also a great time to complete some maintenance tasks around your home to keep your HVAC system working efficiently. Read through the following spring maintenance tips to help your Portland home recover from the winter season.
HVAC Maintenance
On average, your HVAC system accounts for roughly half of your home’s energy bill. As such, keeping your A/C, heat pump or furnace in good condition is very important. Make sure to check your system’s air filter. A clogged filter can increase cooling and heating bills up to 15 percent. Also, inspect your central unit outdoors, and remove any obstructions to airflow, such as leaves, weeds and debris.
If you have a whole-home humidifier that needs to be shut down, or a dehumidifier that needs to be prepped for the cooling months, be sure to ask your HVAC technician to check these systems in addition to tuning up your A/C. Your air ducts should also be inspected. If applicable, make sure to put fresh batteries in your smoke and CO2 detectors.
Sealing and Insulation
Sealing materials can dry out, letting attic insulation blow around. So, make sure to inspect your attic for adequate insulation of at least 12 inches (for fiberglass or cellulose). Then, look for moldy or wet spots, and replace the insulation if you find any. Lastly, make sure your attic door is insulated and sealed with foam weatherstripping.
Plumbing and Appliances
If you’ve noticed higher than normal water bills, look for signs of plumbing leaks, sweaty pipes and clogged drains. Since most plumbing is located in walls or outside your living space, you may need to give your home a good inspection.
Next, check your water heater temperature. It should be set at 120 degrees to produce efficient hot water without wearing your storage tank. Ask your HVAC technician or plumbing professional to flush out your tank and inspect other components.
