Breathe Easier This Season with a Fresh Start

Spring’s in the air—and so is a whole lot of dust, pollen, and who-knows-what hiding in your vents. As we shake off winter and open our windows, it’s the perfect time to give your HVAC system a little attention. One of the easiest and most important things you can do for your comfort (and your energy bill) is to clean your air vents and replace those hardworking filters.

Let’s walk through some quick, effective tips to make sure your system is fresh, clean, and ready for the warmer months ahead.

Why It Matters

Think of your air vents and filters as the lungs of your home. When they’re clogged up with dust, pet hair, or pollen, your HVAC system has to work harder to push air through—and that means higher energy use, uneven temperatures, and poorer air quality.

Dirty filters can also shorten the lifespan of your equipment. But with a little spring cleaning, you can keep things running smoothly and keep your indoor air crisp and clean.

1. Start with the Filters

If you only do one thing this spring, make it this: replace your air filter. It’s a simple task that makes a big difference.

Here’s what to know:

• Frequency: Most homes need a filter change every 1–3 months. Spring is especially important due to high pollen counts and seasonal allergies.
• Type: Check your system’s requirements before buying a filter. Higher-rated filters trap finer particles, but not all systems are built for them.
• Bonus tip: Mark your calendar or set a phone reminder for the next change—it’s easy to forget!

2. Give Your Vents a Quick Makeover

Air vents and registers are dust magnets. If you’ve got one near a pet’s favorite nap spot, you know what we mean.

Here’s how to clean them:

• Turn off your system. Safety first!
• Unscrew and remove the vent covers. Soak them in warm, soapy water if they’re grimy.
• Vacuum inside the duct opening. A hose attachment works great here. Don’t go too deep—just enough to get the surface dust.
• Dry and replace your covers. Good as new.

If you spot mold, excessive buildup, or signs of pests, that’s your cue to call in a pro for a deeper duct cleaning.

3. Tidy Up Around the HVAC Unit

Your indoor unit deserves some love too. Here’s what to check:

• Clear away any storage boxes, furniture, or clutter from around your furnace or air handler.
• Wipe down the outside of the unit with a damp cloth—just to keep dust from getting sucked back into the system.
• If you see dust or debris on the coil or blower, that’s best handled by a technician during your spring tune-up.

4. Don’t Forget the Return Vents

Return vents pull air back into the system—and they get dirty fast. They’re often bigger than supply vents and may be located near floors or ceilings.

A vacuum with a brush attachment usually does the trick. If yours are looking especially dusty or the air feels stale, that could be a sign your system needs a professional cleaning or filter upgrade.

5. Schedule a Spring Tune-Up

While cleaning vents and replacing filters are great DIY steps, it’s also smart to schedule a spring HVAC tune-up with your local pros (like us!).

A seasonal check-up includes:

• Checking refrigerant levels
• Testing thermostat accuracy
• Cleaning coils and drain lines
• Inspecting electrical connections
• Ensuring overall system performance

A well-tuned system is more efficient, more reliable, and ready to tackle those upcoming 80-degree days with ease.

Ready to Breathe Easier?

Spring is a fresh start—and your HVAC system should be part of the reset. With just a little cleaning and care, you can boost efficiency, protect your equipment, and enjoy cleaner air all season long.

Need help with your filters? Noticed dust buildup or uneven airflow? Our team at Keath is just a call away. Let’s keep your comfort running clean and smooth this spring!