HVAC Maintenance Guide
Keep your heating and cooling systems running efficiently. Seasonal checklists, maintenance schedules, and Denver-specific tips.
Why Maintenance Matters
15-25%
Energy savings with proper maintenance
2x
Longer equipment lifespan
50%
Fewer emergency repairs
Better
Indoor air quality
Seasonal Maintenance Checklists
Spring (Cooling Prep)
- Schedule professional AC tune-up
- Replace or clean air filters
- Clean outdoor AC unit (remove debris, trim plants)
- Check refrigerant lines for damage
- Test AC operation before hot weather
- Clean condensate drain line
- Check thermostat batteries
- Inspect ductwork for leaks
Summer (Cooling Season)
- Replace filters monthly during heavy use
- Keep outdoor unit clear of debris
- Check condensate drain regularly
- Monitor energy bills for efficiency changes
- Keep vents open and unobstructed
- Service evaporative cooler if applicable
- Check for unusual noises or odors
Fall (Heating Prep)
- Schedule professional furnace tune-up
- Replace air filters
- Test heating system before cold weather
- Check carbon monoxide detectors
- Clean and inspect vents/registers
- Check thermostat programming
- Inspect flue/exhaust venting
- Winterize evaporative cooler
Winter (Heating Season)
- Replace filters every 1-2 months
- Keep vents clear of furniture/curtains
- Monitor for unusual furnace behavior
- Check for drafts around windows/doors
- Ensure CO detectors are working
- Keep area around furnace clear
- Check humidity levels (30-50% ideal)
Filter Replacement Schedule
| Filter Type | Replacement Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1" Fiberglass | Every 30 days | Basic filtration, most affordable |
| 1" Pleated | Every 60-90 days | Better filtration, good value |
| 2" Pleated | Every 90 days | More surface area, less frequent changes |
| 4" Pleated | Every 6 months | High capacity, excellent filtration |
| 5" Media Filter | Every 6-12 months | Whole-house filtration |
| Washable/Electrostatic | Clean monthly | Reusable, rinse and dry completely |
Professional Services
AC Tune-Up
$75-$150Recommended: Annually (spring)
- Check refrigerant levels
- Clean coils
- Test electrical connections
- Lubricate moving parts
- Check thermostat calibration
Furnace Tune-Up
$75-$150Recommended: Annually (fall)
- Inspect heat exchanger
- Clean burners
- Check gas pressure
- Test safety controls
- Inspect flue/venting
Duct Cleaning
$300-$500Recommended: Every 3-5 years
- Clean supply and return ducts
- Clean registers and grilles
- Sanitize if needed
- Inspect for leaks
Evap Cooler Service
$100-$200Recommended: Annually (spring)
- Replace pads
- Clean reservoir
- Check pump and motor
- Inspect belt
- Test operation
Warning Signs
| Warning Sign | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Unusual noises (banging, squealing, grinding) | Turn off system and call professional |
| Burning smell | Turn off immediately, check for dust on heating elements, call if persists |
| Yellow pilot light (should be blue) | Possible carbon monoxide issue - call professional immediately |
| Short cycling (frequent on/off) | Check filter first, then call professional |
| Uneven heating/cooling | Check vents, may need balancing or duct inspection |
| Increased energy bills | May indicate efficiency loss - schedule tune-up |
| Weak airflow | Check filter, may indicate blower or duct issues |
| Thermostat not responding | Check batteries, wiring, or replace thermostat |
DIY Maintenance Tasks
- Replace air filters regularly
- Keep outdoor unit clean and clear (2ft clearance)
- Clean supply and return vents
- Check thermostat batteries annually
- Pour vinegar down condensate drain (monthly in summer)
- Inspect visible ductwork for damage
- Test CO detectors monthly
- Keep area around furnace clear
Denver-Specific Tips
- Schedule heating tune-up in early fall before the rush
- Denver's dry air means filters may last slightly longer, but check monthly
- Altitude affects combustion - ensure furnace is properly calibrated
- Evaporative coolers work great here but need spring startup service
- Winterize swamp coolers before first freeze to prevent damage
- Consider a humidifier - Denver's dry winter air is hard on sinuses and wood
- Clean or replace filters more often during wildfire smoke events
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