When spring rolls into San Marcos, it’s not just your garden that needs attention—your HVAC system does too. After months of heating your home, your unit is ready for a reset. A proper spring tune-up helps your system switch gears smoothly, prevents breakdowns when the summer heat hits, and keeps energy bills under control.
Whether you’re a hands-on DIYer or prefer calling the pros at Acuna’s Polar Aire, this Spring HVAC Tune-Up Checklist is your go-to guide for prepping your system for the season.
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TLDR – Quick Guide
- Replace or clean HVAC filters
- Clear and inspect your outdoor unit
- Test your thermostat
- Check refrigerant lines for insulation damage
- Schedule a professional tune-up
Detailed Spring HVAC Tune-Up Checklist
1. Replace or Clean Your Filters
Spring allergies are real—and clogged filters make them worse. Clean filters improve airflow, reduce strain on your system, and keep indoor air fresh.
When: Replace every 1–3 months
Bonus Tip: Consider MERV-rated filters if you’re allergy-prone.
2. Clear Around the Outdoor Unit
Winter debris builds up fast. Leaves, dirt, and yard waste can block your condenser and reduce efficiency.
Action Step:
- Trim back bushes
- Remove debris
- Gently rinse the unit’s fins with a hose
3. Test Your Thermostat
Before the temps climb, make sure your thermostat responds accurately. Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to boost savings.
Top Picks: Ecobee, Honeywell T9, or Nest
Need help? Acuna’s techs can install and program one for you.
4. Inspect Refrigerant Lines
Check for cracked or missing insulation around your refrigerant lines. Poor insulation means lost cooling power and wasted energy.
DIY Tip: You can rewrap damaged lines with foam insulation sleeves from the hardware store.
5. Clean Registers and Vents
Dusty vents reduce airflow and distribute allergens. Use your vacuum’s brush attachment to clean vents and registers throughout your home.
Extra Credit: Wipe ceiling fans and clean return grilles too.
6. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Spring is the perfect time to get ahead of AC trouble. Our technicians at Acuna’s Polar Aire check refrigerant levels, inspect coils, tighten electrical connections, and test performance—all before peak season begins.Why it matters:
A spring tune-up can prevent mid-summer breakdowns and extend your system’s lifespan.
Don’t sweat the season change—prepare for it.
With a few proactive steps and help from Acuna’s Polar Aire, your HVAC system will run like a dream all spring and summer long.
Key Takeaways
- Clean filters = cleaner air
- Outdoor unit care = better airflow
- Thermostat check = smarter energy use
- Pro inspection = fewer repairs and better performance
FAQs
1. Why is a spring HVAC tune-up important?
It prevents breakdowns, improves energy efficiency, and extends your system’s lifespan—especially before high-demand summer months.
2. Can I skip professional maintenance if I handle the basics?
DIY steps help, but pros catch things you can’t. Annual checkups are key for long-term reliability and warranty compliance.
3. How much clearance should I keep around the outdoor unit?
Leave at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides for optimal airflow.
4. Do smart thermostats really save money?
Yes. They learn your habits, reduce energy waste, and help systems run less often.
5. What does Acuna’s Polar Aire include in a spring tune-up?
We inspect electrical components, test airflow, check refrigerant levels, clean coils, calibrate thermostats, and ensure everything’s running at peak performance.