Preventative HVAC Maintenance: The Homeowner’s Annual Checklist

By Bonus HVAC
on
Homeowner changing HVAC air filter in utility room

Have you ever woken up to a cold house in the middle of winter? Or found your AC sputtering on the first scorching day of summer? Nobody wants to scramble for emergency hvac help when comfort is on the line. At Bonus HVAC, we know a little foresight goes a long way. That’s why we’ve crafted this annual HVAC checklist—straight from certified pros to your living room.

Think of your HVAC like the heart of your home. Regular care keeps everything running smoothly, prevents surprise breakdowns, and saves you money. Let’s dig in.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters 🛠️

HVAC maintenance isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment. When you stick to a routine, you:

  • Slash energy bills by up to 15–20% (U.S. Department of Energy)
  • Catch small problems before they snowball into expensive repairs
  • Extend the life of your system, whether it’s a new AC install, radiant heating, or a trusty old furnace
  • Breathe easier with better indoor air quality—especially for allergy sufferers

Think of it like brushing your teeth. Skip too many days, and you’ll pay for it later. A little effort now keeps your system humming for years.

The Ultimate Annual Checklist

Here’s the no-nonsense, pro-approved list for keeping your HVAC in top shape:

Every 1–3 Months

  • Change air filters (more often if you have pets or allergies)
  • Inspect thermostat batteries and test for accuracy
  • Check supply and return vents for dust, debris, or obstructions

Every 6 Months

  • Clear leaves and debris from outdoor condenser units
  • Clean drain lines to prevent clogs and overflow
  • Inspect visible ductwork for leaks or disconnections

Once a Year

  • Schedule a Home Energy Audit near you to spot inefficiencies
  • Have coils cleaned (especially for AC units and heat pumps)
  • Test and calibrate thermostats
  • Check refrigerant levels (for AC and mini-splits)
  • Inspect blower motor and belts for wear
  • Tighten electrical connections and check for corrosion
  • Lubricate moving parts in older systems
  • Test safety controls and shut-off switches
  • Replace or clean humidifier/dehumidifier pads
  • Run a complete system test

Pro tip: Keep a copy of this checklist on your fridge. Or download our printable version to mark off each task as you go.

Seasonal To-Do’s 🌦️

Spring: Get Your AC Ready

  • Change or clean filters
  • Clean outdoor coils and clear debris from around the unit
  • Check insulation on refrigerant lines
  • Test the system before the first heat wave

Fall: Prep for Heat

  • Replace furnace filters
  • Clean burners and inspect heat exchanger (for gas furnaces)
  • Check for drafts around windows and doors
  • Test carbon monoxide detectors

Extreme Climates & Allergy Season

  • In dry regions, check humidifiers before winter
  • In humid or rainy climates, make sure dehumidifiers and drain pans are working
  • During pollen season, swap filters more frequently—every 30 days isn’t overkill

DIY vs. Professional Tasks 🧰

Some jobs are weekend-warrior friendly. Others? Leave them to the certified crew.

Safe DIY Tasks

  • Filter changes
  • Thermostat programming
  • Cleaning vent covers
  • Trimming plants around outdoor units

Call a Pro For:

  • Refrigerant handling (it’s regulated by EPA guidelines)
  • Electrical inspections
  • Duct cleaning with specialized tools
  • Calibrating air balancing for whole-house comfort
  • Generator installation and testing

Trying to DIY complex repairs is like using a butter knife to cut steak. It’s risky and rarely ends well.

Signs It’s Time to Call a Pro 🚨

Don’t ignore these red flags:

  • System cycles on/off rapidly, or won’t turn on at all
  • Strange noises—banging, screeching, hissing
  • Odd smells (burning, musty, or chemical odors)
  • Uneven temps room to room
  • Unexplained spikes in your utility bill

If your carbon monoxide detector ever goes off, get everyone outside and call emergency hvac services immediately.

Certified Pro’s Checklist (What We Do)

When Bonus HVAC visits for annual maintenance, we:

  • Perform full system diagnostics
  • Clean and inspect coils, blower, and drain lines
  • Test safety controls and electrical components
  • Check refrigerant (if applicable)
  • Inspect ductwork and airflow balance
  • Advise on indoor air quality (IAQ) improvements—like air scrubbers or energy audits
  • Review and update maintenance logs

We follow industry standards from ACCA, EPA, and ASHRAE for safety and performance.

Safety First: Quick Cautions

  • Shut off power before touching any electrical parts.
  • Wear gloves and a mask when changing dirty filters.
  • Never open sealed refrigerant lines or attempt gas repairs.
  • Keep outdoor units clear from snow, leaves, or critter nests.

If in doubt, call a certified HVAC technician. Your safety comes first.

Local & Seasonal Nuance

Weather here can flip on a dime. If you live where summers are brutal, schedule spring AC service early—before the first wave of calls. In cold climates, don’t wait for the first frost to test your furnace.

Allergy season? Swap filters monthly and ask about air scrubbers or IAQ testing for better breathing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my HVAC filter?

Most homes do well with a new filter every 1–3 months. If you have pets or allergies, go monthly. Always use the filter type recommended by your system’s manufacturer.

Can preventative maintenance really prevent emergency hvac breakdowns?

Regular care drastically reduces the risk of surprise failures. It’s like changing your car’s oil—skipping it leads to bigger problems down the road.

Is duct cleaning worth it?

If you notice dust, musty smells, or allergy symptoms, duct cleaning can help. It also boosts efficiency. But it should be done by certified pros using the right equipment.

What’s included in a Home Energy Audit?

A pro will evaluate insulation, air leaks, system performance, and recommend upgrades. It’s the roadmap for making your home more comfortable and efficient.

Download Your Annual Checklist

Want a copy you can print or share? Download our certified annual checklist, reviewed by licensed HVAC professionals.

Ready for Stress-Free Comfort?

Regular HVAC maintenance is a small investment with big returns—efficiency, reliability, and peace of mind. Don’t wait for the next emergency.

Call Bonus HVAC now — or reach us anytime at  855-774-8559 .

Quick HVAC help when you need it most. Speak to a pro now. 855-774-8559