The Ultimate Guide to HVAC Maintenance for Every Season

Is your HVAC system ready for the next season? If you’ve ever woken up to a freezing house or a sweltering office, you know the panic that sets in when heating or cooling fails. HVAC emergencies don’t wait for business hours. That’s why Briggs Heating is here 24/7.

But what if you could stop most breakdowns before they happen? With the right maintenance, your system won’t just keep running—it’ll run better, last longer, and cost you less. Think of it like changing the oil in your car. Miss it, and you’re headed for trouble. Stay on top, and you’ll rarely find yourself stranded.

Spring Cleaning Tasks 🌱

Spring is when hidden issues start to show. Dust, pollen, and winter debris can clog your system and stress the parts you can’t see. Here’s where to start:

Spring HVAC Checklist (Printable)

• Change or clean all air filters (monthly checks, replace every 1–3 months).
• Inspect visible ducts for signs of dust or mold.
• Clear leaves, branches, and debris from around outdoor AC units.
• Test your thermostat—replace batteries if needed.
• Schedule IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) testing if you’ve had allergy flare-ups.
• Have a pro check refrigerant levels and inspect coils.
• Clean or replace humidifier pads.
• Open vents and registers—make sure airflow isn’t blocked.

Why it matters: Clean filters and coils mean lower energy bills and fewer emergency hvac calls. The EPA recommends regular filter changes to improve indoor air quality and system efficiency.

Summer Cooling Prep ☀️

Summer heat pushes your AC to the limit. A little work now stops mid-July meltdowns.

Summer HVAC Checklist

• Double-check all filters and replace if dirty.
• Inspect insulation on refrigerant lines.
• Listen for unusual noises when the AC starts up.
• Clean condenser coils with a gentle hose spray (power washers can damage them).
• Test the system’s airflow—are all rooms cooling evenly?
• Program your thermostat for summer schedules.
• Check for water leaks near the AC unit or drain pan.
• Schedule AC maintenance with a Briggs Heating technician.

Pro tip: If your system is over 10 years old, talk to us about energy audits or upgrading to energy-efficient models. The Department of Energy highlights big savings with newer AC units.

Fall Heating Readiness 🍂

When nights get chilly, furnaces and heat pumps wake up after months of silence. That’s when weak parts fail.

Fall HVAC Checklist

• Change air filters—again! (Your system will thank you.)
• Inspect furnace burners for dust or rust.
• Test carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries.
• Look for soot or odd smells when your system first turns on.
• Clean around the furnace and clear away storage items.
• Schedule professional heating maintenance.
• Inspect vents and chimneys for blockages.
• Check thermostat programming for fall/winter.

Safety first: The CDC warns that carbon monoxide leaks rise in fall and winter. Test detectors every season.

Winter Emergency Checks ❄️

Extreme cold exposes every weakness in your HVAC. Prevention is key, but fast action can limit damage.

Winter HVAC Checklist

• Change filters (yes, again!).
• Keep vents and registers clear of snow and furniture.
• Listen for clanking, banging, or short cycling (the system starts and stops quickly).
• Check pilot lights and flame sensors (blue flame = healthy).
• Watch for ice on heat pumps or outdoor units.
• Keep a safe area around generators and test before storms hit.
• If you smell gas, shut off the system and call for emergency hvac help.

Tip: Don’t ignore “strange smells.” Burning, rotten egg, or electrical odors signal real danger. Call Briggs Heating immediately.

Commercial vs. Residential Tips 🏢🏡

HVAC needs vary between homes and businesses. Here’s what matters most in each setting.

Residential

• Regular filter changes are your first line of defense.
• Schedule annual maintenance—don’t wait for a breakdown.
• Duct cleaning every 3–5 years keeps allergens low.
• Invest in programmable thermostats and whole-house fans for savings.

Commercial

• Opt for quarterly maintenance—commercial systems face heavier loads.
• Air balancing ensures comfort across large spaces.
• IAQ testing protects employee health and productivity.
• Don’t skip hood & exhaust system checks in kitchens or workshops.
• Generator maintenance is crucial for business continuity.

Both: Emergency hvac services are available 24/7 from Briggs Heating. Downtime isn’t just inconvenient—it’s expensive.

Printable All-Season HVAC Maintenance Checklist

• Check and change filters every 1–3 months.
• Inspect and clear outdoor units seasonally.
• Test thermostats and detectors (smoke, CO) every season.
• Schedule professional maintenance twice a year.
• Clean ducts and vents every 3–5 years.
• Watch for leaks, odd sounds, or uneven temperatures.
• Keep registers and returns unblocked.
• Schedule IAQ testing if you notice musty odors, allergy spikes, or visible mold.

Print and stick this checklist on your fridge or break room wall!

Protecting Your Warranty

Did you know skipping annual maintenance can void manufacturer warranties? Always save your service records. Most major brands require proof of regular care for repairs or replacements. Briggs Heating’s maintenance plan includes documentation so you’re covered.

Signs of Common HVAC Issues

• Weak airflow: Clogged filters, duct leaks, or blower trouble.
• Uneven temperatures: Blocked vents, failing thermostats, or air balancing needs.
• Strange noises: Loose parts, failing motors, or debris in fans.
• Water or ice buildup: Drain clogs, refrigerant issues, or failing pumps.
• Frequent cycling: Thermostat problems or oversized/undersized units.

If you spot these problems, don’t wait. Early fixes are almost always cheaper and faster.

Briggs Heating Maintenance Plan

Our maintenance plan covers routine service, seasonal checks, and priority scheduling for emergencies. It’s peace of mind—one less thing to worry about. Ask us how joining can save you money and extend your system’s life.

EPA Best Practices

The EPA recommends:

• Changing filters regularly.
• Scheduling annual HVAC inspections.
• Testing indoor air quality.
• Sealing and insulating ducts.
• Using programmable thermostats.

Briggs Heating follows these standards to ensure your system is efficient and safe.

Why Proactive Care Saves Money

Think of your HVAC like a marathon runner. Small injuries slow you down, and ignoring pain leads to breakdowns. Regular maintenance catches little issues before they become big, expensive emergencies.

Benefits:

• Lower energy bills.
• Fewer costly repairs.
• Longer system lifespan.
• Healthier indoor air.
• Fewer “no heat” or “no cool” surprises.

Costs & Time Factors

• Filter changes: $10–$50, 5–10 minutes.
• Annual inspections: 1–2 hours.
• Duct cleaning: Half a day, every few years.
• Emergency repairs: Vary by issue and time of day.

Most routine maintenance costs less than a single emergency call. Think of it as insurance for your comfort.

When It’s an Emergency

If your system:

• Stops heating or cooling completely.
• Makes burning, electrical, or gas odors.
• Trips breakers or won’t power up.
• Floods, leaks, or ices over.

Call Briggs Heating’s emergency hvac service, day or night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my HVAC filter?

Check every month, change at least every 1–3 months—more often with pets, allergies, or high use.

Do I need maintenance if my system seems fine?

Yes. Most problems start out silent. Routine checks catch them before you lose heating or cooling.

Can I do maintenance myself?

You can change filters and clear debris, but internal checks and tune-ups should be done by a licensed pro.

Is emergency hvac service available after hours?

Absolutely. Briggs Heating is always on call—nights, weekends, holidays.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

Every region has quirks. Humid summers, dusty falls, freezing winters. Briggs Heating tailors our maintenance to your climate and building. We know what local codes require and what seasonal hazards to watch for.

Final Thoughts

Proactive HVAC care isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, savings, and peace of mind. Simple steps, done regularly, keep you out of the emergency zone. When things get urgent, Briggs Heating is always here.

Call Briggs Heating now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7966 .