Spring is here. The weather is warmer, the sun is brighter - and pollen is everywhere. Fortunately, your HVAC system can help keep allergens at bay and make your home more comfortable. But first, there are a few things you need to do, to help it along and keep it working properly. Here's our list of spring HVAC tips.

Keep the Windows Closed

Most of the time, fresh air is a good thing, but not during allergy season. Leaving your window open means pollen, dust, and other allergens can find their way into your home. This means more contaminants for your HVAC filter to remove from your air. This can lead to it clogging up more quickly and working less efficiently.

Consider an IAQ Product

There are a number of products that can help eliminate pollen and other contaminants, and improve your indoor air quality. A whole-house air purifier uses high efficiency filters that capture and eliminate contaminants much more effectively than your HVAC system.

A humidifier can help as well. If your home's humidity is too high or too low, certain allergens can thrive. A whole-house humidifier helps you keep humidity at the perfect level to preserve your home's IAQ. Finally, a UV light can kill pollen, bacteria, and other organic contaminants in your air.

Keep Your System Running Consistently

You might think you can save money by turning your system off on milder days and only running it when things are too warm, or too cold. However, when you leave your HVAC off for too long, moisture can build up inside, causing damage. Additionally, turning your system on and off too frequently can wear it out more quickly. Instead, keep the thermostat consistently at a low level, to save energy while staying comfortable.

Clean Your Condenser

If you're not careful, all sorts of debris can build up in your A/C's condenser over time, from grass and dirt to twigs and branches and more. Fortunately, cleaning it is fairly simple, though you will need a special condenser coil cleaner. Turn off power to the unit, then spray the condenser with the cleaner. Wait a few minutes, then rinse it off with a hose.

Or if you prefer, you can ask your HVAC technician to do it during annual maintenance. You can also help prevent debris buildup in the first place, by keeping the grass trimmed and by clearing away all branches, flowers, and other obstructions for at least one square foot around your outdoor unit.

Get Your Spring Maintenance

You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year: once in the spring, just before cooling season, and once in the fall, just before heating season. Your HVAC technician will give the system a thorough going over, to make sure it's in good working order and running efficiently.

They can spot minor issues like loose wires or aging components, and fix or replace them before they turn into bigger problems. They'll check your thermostat settings, look for leaks in your ductwork, and generally make sure that your HVAC is running well and ready for summer.

These are just a few of the ways you can keep your HVAC system running as smoothly and efficiently as possible. If you'd like more tips on how to prepare your system for spring, David Gray HVAC can help! Contact our experts to learn more!