Life in Seattle is a mixed bag of weather, from wet winters to dry, hot summers. That puts your HVAC system in the category of necessities, not luxuries. Your seasonal HVAC maintenance is more than just about comfort–it’s about the ability to keep your home, health, and energy bill out of harm’s way. So, whether you’ve got the wettest of seasons in your near future or sporadic sun breaks today is the dam, here’s the ultimate list of tasks every homeowner in Seattle should tackle to keep his or her HVAC system humming along.
Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters?
For HVAC systems, the weather in Seattle throws down some interesting challenges. The moist air can create mold and mildew, and fluctuating temperatures can cause more stress on heating and cooling systems. By keeping up with maintenance regularly, you can maintain efficiency, increase the life, and have a better potential to catch issues before they turn into expensive repairs.
Working with a trusted HVAC company Seattle dwellers rely on can help ensure you’re doing this checklist correctly.
Spring Maintenance Checklist
As Seattle shakes off a wet winter, spring is the ideal time to get your system prepared for the warmer days to come.
- Replace air filters: Pollen counts go up during spring, and changing your air filters will help keep your indoor air clean.
- Clean vents and ducts: Dust, allergens, and pet hair get trapped in them during the off-season.
- Check the thermostat: Ensure that it’s actually reading correctly, and consider replacing it with a smart thermostat for better efficiency.
- Inspect outside units: Remove leaves, twigs, or any other debris that has accumulated around your condenser.
- Test the A/C system: Turn the unit on to make sure it is cooling properly before the hot weather arrives.
Summer Maintenance Checklist
Seattle summers are not as hot as many other places in the country (in fact, some would say they’re pretty mild), but you can expect some warmer temperatures, especially in July and August.
- Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant may suggest your system is overworking and struggling to cool down.
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils: A dirty coil reduces the system’s ability to cool your home and causes the system to run longer, increasing energy costs.
- Listen for strange noises: Clicking, banging, ng,o, rattling noises may be a sign of loose components that are failing.
- Inspect your drain lines: Make sure your condensate drain is not reversible so you do not have moisture complications, especially in summer.
- Preventative Professional Tune Up Schedule: A professional HVAC Seattle company will do a full-scale inspection and make adjustments.
Fall Maintenance Checklist
Fall in Seattle is a harbinger of cold, wet winters. Later, it is better to concentrate on heater elements.
- Replace air filters: You’ll want to change filters at least once every 1–3 months, ideally before the heating season begins.
- Try out the furnace or heat pump: Turn on the heat system to ensure that it turns on correctly and heats evenly.
- Check for carbon monoxide leaks: An important one for safety, especially if you have gas heating.
- Seal up and insulate: Boost energy efficiency by inspecting for drafts around windows and doors.
- Check pilot light and ignition system: Making sure these items are up and running can prevent a no-heat situation.
Winter Maintenance Checklist
It’s a city of cold, damp winters, with the possibility of snow. Your HVAC system needs to be up to the task.
- Check energy bills: An unexplained spike could be a sign your system is operating inefficiently.
- Pay attention to unusual noises: Grinding or screeching sounds could signal motor or fan problems.
- Prevent blockage in vents: Check to see that furnishings or rugs aren’t obstructing airflow in your home.
- Clear snow and ice from around units set outside: The buildup is rare but can obstruct airflow and contribute to breakdowns.
- Book a mid-season checkup: A reliable HVAC company Seattle residents trust can
Perform regular maintenance work on an HVAC system throughout the year, helping homeowners in Seattle keep their comfort, safety, and energy efficiency in check. Yearly seasonal tune-ups and service will help reduce your utility bills and extend the life of your heating and cooling system.
