As the snow melts and warmer temperatures begin arriving in Edmonton and surrounding Alberta communities, many homeowners are ready to switch from heat to air conditioning. But before you make the transition from furnace to AC, it’s important to ensure your HVAC system is prepared for the season ahead.
A proper seasonal HVAC transition can help:
- Improve energy efficiency
- Reduce wear and tear on your system
- Prevent unexpected air conditioning breakdowns
- Keep your home comfortable during warmer weather
Here’s how to safely transition your HVAC system for spring and summer with help from Academy Mechanical Services Inc.
1. Replace Your Furnace Air Filter
One of the easiest and most important things you can do is replace your furnace filter. After a long winter of constant use, your filter has likely collected dust, dirt, and debris.
A clean filter helps:
•Improve airflow
•Reduce strain on your HVAC system
•Improve indoor air quality
•Help your AC run more efficiently
If you can’t remember the last time, you changed it, now’s the perfect time.
2. Switch and Test Your Thermostat
Before turning on your air conditioner, switch your thermostat from “heat” to “cool” mode and test the temperature settings.
If your home uses a programmable or smart thermostat, this is also a good time to update your schedule for spring and summer temperatures. Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher while you’re away can help lower energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
3. Clear Around Your Outdoor AC Unit
Over the winter months, leaves, dirt, branches, and other debris can build up around your outdoor condenser unit.
Take a few minutes to:
•Remove debris around the unit
•Trim back grass or shrubs
•Make sure there’s at least two feet of open space around it
Proper airflow helps your AC operate more efficiently and prevents unnecessary strain on the system.
4. Inspect Vents and Registers
Walk through your home and make sure vents and air registers are open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains.
Blocked vents can affect airflow and make your HVAC system work harder than necessary. While you’re at it, dusting vents can also help improve indoor air quality after a long winter indoors.
5. Listen for Unusual Sounds
When turning your AC on for the first time this season, listen carefully for unusual sounds.
Warning signs may include:
Rattling, buzzing, grinding, squealing, uneven cooling, weak airflow.
These issues may indicate mechanical problems that should be addressed before they become costly repairs.
6. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance
Spring is one of the best times to schedule professional HVAC maintenance in Edmonton.
A seasonal inspection can help catch small issues early and make sure your system is operating safely and efficiently before summer arrives.
A professional HVAC tune-up may include:
•Checking refrigerant levels
•Inspecting electrical components
•Cleaning coils
•Testing system performance
•Ensuring proper airflow
Routine maintenance can also help extend the life of your system and improve energy efficiency throughout the warmer months.
Stay Comfortable All Spring and Summer
Transitioning from furnace to AC doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps now can help keep your home comfortable, improve system performance, and reduce the risk of costly repairs later in the season.
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling properly, your system hasn’t been serviced in a while, or you simply want peace of mind heading into summer, the team at Academy Mechanical Services Inc. is here to help.
From seasonal maintenance to HVAC repairs and installations, we proudly serve homeowners throughout Edmonton, Spruce Grove, and surrounding Alberta communities.
Contact us today to schedule your spring HVAC maintenance and prepare your home for warmer weather.