Preparing Your HVAC for the Changing Seasons

Preparing Your HVAC for the Changing Seasons

Georgia’s climate presents a unique set of challenges for homeowners—long, humid summers that don’t quit and short but potentially crisp winters that can leave you shivering.
To ensure your HVAC system sticks by your side through these seasonal shifts, we recommend adopting the following maintenance schedule.

Why HVAC Maintenance Matters

Your HVAC system has a big job, and maintenance is essential to ensure it operates at peak efficiency. Proper care can not only extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, it will:

• Improve air quality: Did you know indoor air quality is often 5X worse than outdoors? Clean air filters and components eliminate airborne toxins and improve air quality.
• Reduce energy costs: HVAC systems are expensive. By regularly maintaining your system, you can prevent costly repairs and avoid premature replacement.
• Stay safe: Natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks can be dangerous. Regular maintenance prevents hazardous situations before they occur.
• Maintain warranty: Many HVAC systems come with warranties that require regular maintenance to remain valid.
• Enjoy consistent comfort: A well-maintained system performs better and is less likely to break down when you need it most, like during a cold winter night or a long holiday weekend in July.

Fall Maintenance

Air Conditioner

As you shut down your air conditioner for the season, it’s critical to give it a proper adieu. Start by turning the unit off at the outside circuit to ensure the thermostat does not accidentally trigger the AC system during a warm winter period. This could accidentally cause ice and water to be sucked into the outside unit.

Next, clear the area of debris and clean the outside condenser—the large metal box with grills. Gently clean the fins with a vacuum, then spray down using a hose. Allow it to fully dry before covering it with a waterproof cover.
Furnace

Begin by changing the air filter, which is likely clogged with several months of dust and debris. Next, ensure none of your wall or floor vents are blocked by furniture or heavy curtains. We also recommend checking your thermostat for accuracy and scheduling a tune-up with our temperature tailors. We’ll clean, inspect, and lubricate every vital component of your system.

Winter Maintenance

Air Conditioner

During the winter months, we recommend periodically checking the outdoor unit to ensure the cover is still secure. After heavy snowfall (rare in Georgia), you should also remove buildup to eliminate unnecessary stress on the unit.

Furnace

Since you’ve already done the heavy lifting to get your furnace ready for winter, all you need to do now is continue to change the filter every 1-3 months, depending on use and the type of filter. We also suggest monitoring humidity levels; if the air becomes too dry, reach out to our friendly techs to discuss whole-home humidifier options.

Spring Maintenance

Air Conditioner

Be sure to add your air conditioner to your spring cleaning checklist! Remove the cover from your outdoor unit, clean the air filter and condenser coils, and remove debris. We also suggest testing the unit to ensure it works properly before the muggy summer arrives.

Furnace

If your furnace and central AC system are separate systems (usually the case), your work is done until the fall.

Summer Maintenance

Air Conditioner
During peak summer use, we recommend changing your air filters every month, keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear of debris and grass, and monitoring your energy bills to evaluate efficiency.

Furnace
While your heating system won't be used for several months, keeping the area around it clean is important to prevent dust buildup.

Get Year-Long Comfort With Help From Air Control Heating and Air

Want to prevent costly breakdowns, extend the life of your air conditioner and furnace while keeping your energy bills under control? Our HVAC maintenance technicians can help. With our flexible scheduling and affordable maintenance plans, it's never been easier to keep your HVAC system in peak condition. Contact us today!