HVAC Maintenance Checklist
Whether the temperature's rising or falling, comfort in your home or office is key. Your air conditioner and furnace can keep you comfortable for years to come as long as it's well maintained. Below is a helpful HVAC maintenance checklist with tasks to do in the spring and fall, ensuring your space is at the right temperature all year long.
Springtime HVAC Maintenance
In the spring, you'll need to prepare your air conditioner primed for the dog days of summer by doing the following:
What You Can Tackle:
- Replacing the air filters – You should add in new filters to the AC system every three to six months to trap buildups of dust, dander and other allergens.
- Cleaning around the unit – Make sure to remove any debris, dirt or grass around the unit.
- Cleaning the drain lines – By clearing the drain and condensation lines, you'll provide proper flow to and from the unit.
- Emptying the drain pans – Empty the water buildup from the drain pans.
- Cleaning the interior – Disconnect the power, and open the top to gain access. Use a shop vacuum to remove debris inside the unit.
- Cleaning the coils – Disconnect the power, and open the top to gain access. Use fin cleaner and a hose to wash the coils from the inside and outside.
- Turning off the water supply to the furnace humidifier – This likely isn't needed for the season, so shut it off if you have one.
What an HVAC Tech Should Tackle:
- Checking the fan motor and blowers – A technician will look for any debris buildup and clean it accordingly. If there is any damage to the blades, they will need to replace the component.
- Lubricating parts – Any moving parts or motor bearing should be lubricated during this seasonal inspection.
- Checking and repairing leaks – A technician will look for refrigerant leaks and make necessary repairs.
- Checking electrical components – Batteries, thermostats, controls and other electrical parts should be tested annually to ensure they're functioning properly.
Fall HVAC Maintenance
In the early fall, chilly weather is just around the corner. You'll want to get your furnace warm by doing these tasks:
What You Can Tackle:
- Replacing the air filter(s) – Like the AC unit, you should add a new filter in furnace every three to six months to capture dust, dander and other allergens.
- Cleaning around the furnace – Remove any dust or debris around the unit. If you have items like boxes nearby, move them away during the season.
- Cleaning vents and ductwork – At least once a year before the fall, clean your air ducts. You can use a wand attachment on a standard vacuum to suck out any dust or debris from the vents.
- Replacing the humidifier filter – Before turning it back on, replace the filter in the humidifier.
- Turning on the water supply to the furnace humidifier – Turn the water supply back on to the furnace humidifier.
- Cleaning the drain lines – Clearing the drain lines on the furnace helps ensure proper airflow.
- Emptying drain pans – Empty the water buildup from the drain pans.
What an HVAC Tech Should Tackle:
- Inspecting the flame sensor – A technician will make sure the area is free of debris and the parts are in working order.
- Checking the fan motor and blowers – Aside from cleaning debris buildup, your HVAC tech will look for any damage to the blades.
- Lubricating parts – Like your AC unit, the moving parts or motor bearing in the furnace will be lubricated during inspection.
- Checking and repairing leaks – A technician will look for any signs of gas leaks or erosion of gas lines and make necessary repairs.
- Checking electrical components – Batteries, thermostats, controls and other electrical parts should be tested annually to ensure they're functioning properly.