This is the time of year when we can forget about winter and start to focus on spring. For many people, this will involve some serious spring cleaning to prepare for the season ahead. As well as the usual spring cleaning tasks it’s also a good idea to spend some time on your HVAC system. Cleaning your HVAC system will benefit your home in the months ahead improving indoor air quality and even reducing the need for cleaning.
- Reducing Dust is Vital
When a film of dust accumulates in our homes, it is often merely perceived as an inconvenience to clean. Many people are unaware that dust can contain harmful allergens that can affect the health of those breathing in the air. The detrimental effects are particularly acute in those with respiratory illnesses and allergies. Removing dust can help, but it will quickly return and the poor air quality with it. A clean HVAC system will provide cleaner air and reduce the amount of dust in your home. This will make cleaning easier, and your indoor air quality will be fresher.
- Clean the External AC Unit
The HVAC system in your home needs the external unit to remove heat from your home. Over winter the unit may have become covered with debris and dirt. When the unit is dirty, it will be less effective and use more energy. Clear away any clutter and then wash the unit down with a low power hose for good measure.
- Bathroom Grout Surfaces are Breeding Grounds
The tile grout in your bathroom has tiny pores much like our skin when observed up close. These tiny pores can easily accumulate deposits of dirt and encourage the growth of mold. Tiles and bathroom fittings can also become dirty and covered in mold growth. These surfaces need to be thoroughly cleaned by spraying them with white vinegar. This can be worked into grouting with an old toothbrush or nail brush for better results. Leave the vinegar on the surfaces for at least an hour and then wash them down with clean soapy water. Vinegar has a powerful odor and working in a well ventilated room is advisable.
- Don’t Forget the Bathroom Fan
While you’re in the bathroom take some time to give the bathroom fans an annual cleaning. Turn off the power, take off the covers, wash them with clean soapy water and dry them thoroughly. Clean the fan blades with an old soft toothbrush until they are totally clean. Any removed dirt deposits will increase the airflow, air quality and make your bathroom fan more energy efficient.
- Cleaning the Family Room
The family or living room is one of the most used rooms in most homes. For this reason, it’s vital to do a great spring cleaning job here. Dust mites will thrive in carpets, but most vacuum cleaners cannot remove them as they are simply too small. That being said vacuuming can remove dust and this will make your carpets a less attractive place for them to live. For this reason, it’s essential to be thorough and get behind and under all the furniture in the room. It may also be a good idea to check the caulking around doors and windows. Caulk will keep humidity and heat out in summer and stop cold drafts during the next winter. Well sealed doors and windows will also help you to save money on your energy bills all year round.