After a cold and wet winter, springtime will be here in just a few short weeks. Its arrival is anticipated by Oregonians both young and old, but with the change of season, it’s important to ensure your heating and cooling system is ready to go, too. Here are some important reminders on preparing your system for springtime weather.
First, head outside and be sure the exterior unit is clean and clear. The cold months of winter bring lots of storms and it’s easy for twigs, dirt, leaves, and other debris to accumulate on and around the outside unit. When the sun starts peeking its head from the clouds, spend some time cleaning off the area to ensure there is no restricted airflow. Wipe off the top and sweep/clear away anything around it. If there are things that get inside, it could disrupt the system’s performance and wreak havoc on the internal components. This could lead to an expensive breakdown or repair or cause the machine to compensate for a problem and use more energy than necessary.
Next, check your air filters. Filters capture pollen, dust, dander, or other bacteria that try to get inside your home or business. If those are neglected, they’ll get dirtier and dirtier – and dirty air filters mean you’re breathing dirty air. In addition, it means your system is working harder than it needs to. We recommend cleaning or replacing your filters every other month – more often if you have pets. Indoor air quality matters!
Last, think about your thermostat. If you’re using an older thermostat, consider replacing it with a programmable one. Smart thermostats help regulate the temperature in your home 24/7 – even when you’re not there! Simply set the desired temperature based on your schedule and let it work its magic. For example, do you work outside of the home during the day? Turn the thermostat down a bit, then program it to kick back on right before you get home. Programmable thermostats can help save upwards of 20% on your energy bill. That translates to more money in your pocket for things you enjoy doing!
Oregon springs are some of the best in the world. Having your system prepared ahead of time will allow you to stay comfortable and enjoy the beautiful season that’s ahead. Spring is also a busy time for our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling. So, call us today to make sure you get your tune-up scheduled on your system, or to learn more about upgrading your system for the change of season. We look forward to working with you for all of your heating and cooling solutions!
