Rainy spring days are a staple of life in Oregon, bringing lush greenery but also presenting challenges to your home’s HVAC system. Whether it’s a persistent damp chill or windows fogging up more quickly than usual, taking a few simple steps now can help keep your home cozy and efficient throughout the season.
Check Your HVAC’s Filter More Often
Moisture-laden spring air often carries more debris, such as pollen, dust, and dirt. This can cause your HVAC filter to clog more quickly, reducing airflow and making it harder for your system to regulate your home’s temperature.
Experts recommend replacing your HVAC system’s air filter at least every three months. However, you may need to swap yours out more frequently. In addition to spring weather, having pets, how many people live in your household, and how often your system runs are other factors that affect a filter’s useful lifespan. Many homeowners check their filters once a month, but in rainy conditions, you may want to inspect them even more often so that you know when it is time for a fresh one.
Use a Smart Thermostat to Track Humidity Swings
Spring weather often brings unpredictable temperature shifts and increased humidity, which can be difficult to manage with a standard thermostat. While traditional thermostats only monitor temperature, they don’t account for changes in humidity, which is a crucial factor in maintaining indoor comfort. A smart thermostat equipped with humidity tracking provides a more comprehensive solution, allowing you to make informed adjustments to your home’s climate. This makes it one of the best and most cost-effective heating and cooling system enhancements available.
During rainy weather, you may notice the air feels muggy in the morning, but as the sun breaks through, it can become dry and dusty later in the day. A smart thermostat allows you to set a preferred humidity range. It automatically adjusts your system’s operation to maintain consistent air moisture levels, whether by running the air conditioning longer to reduce humidity or adjusting the amount of heating to counteract dry air.
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear of Wet Yard Debris
Spring rains often bring more than just wet weather. It also results in increased yard debris, such as fallen branches, leaves, and mud. If your outdoor HVAC unit is positioned near trees or low-lying areas, it is particularly susceptible to accumulating debris. This buildup can trap moisture, which, over time, can corrode the unit’s metal casing and clog the fins and vents. As airflow becomes restricted, your system may struggle to operate efficiently, leading to increased strain and reduced cooling performance.
Wet debris not only diminishes airflow but can also lead to additional issues, such as reduced energy efficiency and an increased risk of mechanical failure. The system may also run longer than necessary in an attempt to compensate for poor airflow, increasing your energy costs.
To prevent these problems, take the time to inspect your outdoor unit after each heavy storm. If you notice leaves or branches lodged in the fins or clogging the vents on the sides of the unit, it’s essential to clear them out. Use your hands to gently remove the debris. It’s especially important to avoid using tools that could damage the delicate fins, which are crucial for proper airflow. A gentle rinse with a garden hose can also help remove dirt and grime, but be sure to spray from an angle that avoids pushing debris deeper into the unit. Keeping your outdoor condenser clean and free of debris will ensure it operates as it should, improving the overall performance of your system and extending its lifespan.
Check the Ducts in Crawl Spaces and Attics
Wet seasons can introduce moisture into areas of your home that are out of sight, such as crawl spaces and attics. If your ductwork runs through these spaces, there may be hidden leaks or loose connections that allow spring humidity to seep in, creating pockets of damp air. This moisture can promote the growth of mold and mildew inside the ducts, leading to unpleasant odors that are carried into your living spaces each time your HVAC system runs.
While it’s not necessary to crawl around with a flashlight to inspect these areas, paying attention to subtle signs like musty smells or uneven temperatures across rooms can alert you to potential issues. For instance, if one bedroom consistently feels colder or damp, it could be a sign that there’s a duct leak. You can also visually inspect the vent registers with a flashlight for any signs of moisture or buildup. If you notice dark spots or fuzzy growth, it may indicate the presence of mold or mildew inside the ducts.
If you find damage or leaks in your ductwork, it’s essential to have them sealed as soon as possible. Leaky ducts can allow humid air to enter, worsening the moisture problem and making it harder to maintain a comfortable home. A technician can deal with leaks using an aerosol-based sealant. However, they may need to replace damaged sections of your ductwork.
You will have to contact a professional if you find mold in your ducts. During a duct cleaning service, they will inspect your ductwork for any signs of mold or mildew, using specialized equipment to clean the ducts thoroughly. They will use powerful vacuums, brushes, and air whips to remove contaminants and improve airflow. In cases of significant mold growth, the technician may also treat the ducts with antimicrobial agents to help prevent future issues. Having your ducts professionally cleaned not only improves the air quality in your home but also ensures that your HVAC system runs more efficiently.
Adjust Your Dampers and Open Closed Vents
Spring throws your whole temperature routine off. One minute, the house feels stuffy; the next, you’re cold. That’s not always the HVAC system’s fault. Sometimes, your dampers just need a little attention. If the vents in your living room blow like a wind tunnel but the bedrooms barely breathe, try adjusting the dampers behind the vent covers. You can turn them slightly to control how much air flows into each room. People often forget that those little metal flaps aren’t fixed in place.
During the colder months, you might have closed some vents to keep other rooms warmer. Now that spring is here, check to ensure they are all open. You should also move any household items that are blocking them, such as area rugs, furniture, and curtains. This task will improve the airflow throughout your home, allowing your HVAC system to distribute air more evenly, which can help with humidity.
Contact Your Local Professionals
At Specialty Heating & Cooling LLC, we have been serving the residents of Portland, OR and the surrounding areas since 1985. We install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. You can also count on us for all your ductwork needs, including cleaning service and AeroSeal® Duct Sealing. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
