Regular HVAC maintenance can reduce your energy bills by 15-25% and extend your system's lifespan by 5-10 years. This guide covers DIY tasks you can do yourself and when it's time to call a professional.

Monthly DIY Maintenance

Change Your Air Filter

Time: 5 minutes Cost: $10-20 Saves: 5-15% on energy

Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Check monthly and replace every 1-3 months depending on:

  • Filter type (fiberglass = monthly, pleated = 3 months)
  • Number of pets
  • Allergy sufferers in home
  • Local air quality
Pro Tip: Set a phone reminder for the first of each month to check your filter.

Clear Vents and Registers

Time: 10 minutes Cost: Free

Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed by:

  • Furniture
  • Curtains
  • Rugs
  • Dust and debris

Seasonal Maintenance (Spring & Fall)

Clean Outdoor AC Unit

Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free
  1. Turn off power at the disconnect box
  2. Remove debris (leaves, grass, dirt) from around unit
  3. Trim vegetation 2-3 feet around unit
  4. Gently clean condenser fins with soft brush
  5. Spray coils with garden hose (gentle pressure)
Warning: Never use a pressure washer - it can damage delicate fins.

Check Thermostat Settings

Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free
  • Test heating and cooling modes
  • Verify temperature accuracy
  • Program energy-saving schedules
  • Replace batteries if needed

Inspect Ductwork

Time: 20 minutes Cost: Free to check

Look for:

  • Visible gaps or disconnections
  • Dust buildup at vents
  • Uneven heating/cooling in rooms
  • Rattling or whistling sounds

Seal small leaks with mastic sealant or metal tape (not duct tape).

Annual Professional Maintenance

Some tasks require professional expertise and specialized tools. Schedule annual tune-ups in spring (AC) and fall (heating).

What Pros Do (AC Tune-up)

  • Check refrigerant levels
  • Test electrical connections
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Inspect condensate drain
  • Clean evaporator and condenser coils
  • Check blower motor and belt
  • Calibrate thermostat
  • Test safety controls

What Pros Do (Heating Tune-up)

  • Inspect heat exchanger
  • Clean burners and ignition
  • Check gas pressure
  • Test for carbon monoxide
  • Inspect flue and venting
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Check blower operation
  • Replace air filter
Average maintenance cost: $75-200 per visit
Potential savings: $200-500/year on energy bills

Warning Signs: Call a Pro Immediately

Unusual Noises

Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds indicate mechanical problems.

Weak Airflow

Could indicate blower issues, duct problems, or blocked vents.

Strange Odors

Burning smells (electrical) or musty odors (mold) need immediate attention.

Short Cycling

System turns on/off frequently - wastes energy and stresses components.

High Humidity

AC should remove humidity. If house feels sticky, system needs service.

Ice on Coils

Frozen evaporator coils indicate airflow or refrigerant problems.

HVAC Maintenance Calendar

Monthly

  • Check/replace filter
  • Clear vents

Spring (March-May)

  • Schedule AC tune-up
  • Clean outdoor unit
  • Test cooling

Fall (Sept-Nov)

  • Schedule heating tune-up
  • Test heating
  • Check insulation

As Needed

  • Clear debris after storms
  • Seal duct leaks
  • Program thermostat

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