With spring here and summer right around the corner, it is important to make sure your HVAC system is in top condition. Douglas Trattner provides an easy-to-follow HVAC maintenance checklist in a recent article for HouseLogic. By following this simple maintenance guide, you can increase the life and efficiency of your system:

• Purchase a filter for your HVAC system. You might consider getting a new high-efficiency pleated filter. These filters have an electrostatic charge which is able to "grab the tiniest particles — even those that carry bacteria," Trattner explains. 
• Replace the filter every three months or 90 days. The rule of thumb is to replace the filter every 90 days, but you should check it more often, on at least a monthly basis, especially if you have pets.
• Have at least two feet of clearance around outdoor air conditioning units and heat pumps.
• Each season, remove debris from your air-conditioning units and heat pumps. "Weekly during spring, summer, and fall remove debris such as leaves, pollen, and twigs from top and sides of outdoor air-conditioning units and heat pumps," Trattner instructs, adding: "Don't allow the lawn mower to discharge grass clippings onto the unit." 
• On a monthly basis, examine the insulation on refrigerant lines, replacing any that are missing or damaged.
• On an annual basis, "ensure that outdoor air-conditioning units and heat pumps are on firm and level ground or pads." 
• Put bleach and water in the air-conditioner condensate drain to prevent mold and algae buildup, which can cause clogging. 
• During the summer, shut off the water supply to the furnace humidifier. 
• To prevent strain on the HVAC system, avoid closing more than 20 percent of a home's registers. 
• Change out the batteries in your system annually.

If you are looking for home insurance in Sussex, Fundy Mutual can help. We have been serving the New Brunswick region for over 70 years. Contact us today for an affordable homeowners insurance quote.