How Often Should You Schedule HVAC Maintenance?

Is your air conditioner humming along, or is it quietly begging for attention? At Holmes Heating & Air, we know most folks only think about their HVAC system when something goes wrong. But just like your car needs regular oil changes, your heating and cooling equipment needs scheduled care to keep you comfortable—and to avoid surprise breakdowns.

Missing a maintenance check is like driving with the check engine light on. You might get away with it for a while, but sooner or later, you’ll wish you hadn’t.

Recommended Timing by System Type 🗓️

Every home and business is different, but the basics stay the same. Here’s how often to schedule maintenance for every major HVAC system:

Central Air Conditioners

• Twice a year: Once in early spring (before cooling season) and again in fall (after heavy use).
• An annual visit is the bare minimum, but two keeps things running smoother.

Furnaces and Heating Systems

• Once per year: Schedule in late summer or early fall. This ensures your system is ready before the first cold snap.
• For oil or older gas furnaces, two checkups a year can be worthwhile.

Mini-Splits & Ductless Units

• Twice per year: Once before heavy cooling, once before heavy heating. Even though they're efficient, they work hard year-round.
• Clean filters monthly or as recommended.

Commercial HVAC Systems

• Quarterly: Businesses often run their systems longer hours. Quarterly maintenance (every 3 months) keeps operations steady, air balanced, and energy bills in check.

Special Systems

• Geothermal, radiant heating, whole-house fans, and generators should have annual checkups—ideally by a technician with specific experience in each.

If you’re ever unsure, ask your technician for system-specific advice. Or, check your manufacturer’s recommendations—ignoring them can void your warranty.

Seasonal Tips for Year-Round Comfort

Your HVAC system is like a marathon runner. It needs to warm up, cool down, and recover from each season’s demands.

• Spring: Change filters, clean coils, and check refrigerant before the AC gets busy.
• Summer: Watch for odd noises, weak airflow, or ice buildup. Don’t ignore small issues.
• Fall: Prep heating—check burners, pilot lights, and safety controls.
• Winter: Keep intake vents clear of snow and debris. If you notice uneven heating, call for a quick tune-up.

For homes with humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or air scrubbers, include them in spring and fall checkups. Clean or replace filters and test controls.

Impact of Usage and Climate

Not all systems work the same hours. If you live in a hot, humid area, your AC may run six months straight. If your furnace runs every night in winter, it deserves an extra look.

• Heavy Use: Schedule more frequent maintenance—especially for commercial spaces.
• Climate Extremes: Very dusty, humid, or coastal areas can clog filters and corrode parts faster.
• Allergies or Pets: Change air filters often—sometimes monthly.

If your system struggles after storms, heatwaves, or cold snaps, it’s worth a professional checkup—even mid-season.

Maintenance Reminders That Work

Life gets busy. That’s why it helps to set reminders on your phone or calendar. Many thermostats let you set filter-change alerts. Holmes Heating & Air offers maintenance agreements—these are like a pit crew for your system, tracking service dates and handling the details.

Keep a folder or digital record of every visit. A documented service history can help with warranty claims and makes your equipment more attractive if you ever sell your property.

Why Maintenance Matters

• Efficiency: Dirty coils and clogged filters force your system to work harder, raising bills.
• Reliability: Small issues caught early prevent big, expensive breakdowns.
• Air Quality: Clean systems mean cleaner air for your family or employees.
• Warranty Protection: Many manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance for coverage.

The U.S. Department of Energy and Air Conditioning Contractors of America both recommend annual professional tune-ups for safety, efficiency, and system longevity.

How to Spot When You Need Extra Care

• Unusual noises—rattles, squeaks, or grinding
• Inconsistent temperatures in different rooms
• Higher energy bills without a clear cause
• Frequent cycling (system turns on and off quickly)
• Unpleasant odors from vents

If you notice any of these, don’t wait for your regular appointment. Schedule a visit right away.

What Happens During a Professional Visit

When a Holmes Heating & Air technician arrives, here’s what you can expect:

• Inspect and clean coils, blowers, and burners
• Check refrigerant levels for AC and mini-splits
• Test thermostat calibration and safety controls
• Replace or clean filters
• Lubricate moving parts to reduce wear
• Inspect electrical connections and tighten as needed
• For commercial customers, balance airflow and check exhaust/hood systems

A thorough visit takes time—usually 60 to 90 minutes per system.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

There are some simple things you can do yourself:

• Change filters regularly
• Keep outdoor units clear of leaves, grass, and debris
• Check vent registers for blockages
• Listen for odd noises or smells

But deeper cleaning, refrigerant handling, and electrical inspections are best left to licensed professionals. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires special certification for refrigerant work.

Maintenance Agreements: Set It and Forget It

A maintenance plan with Holmes Heating & Air means you never have to worry about missing a checkup. We’ll track your service dates, remind you when it’s time, and keep a detailed service record for you.

This can be a lifesaver for busy families and property managers. It also helps ensure your manufacturer's warranty stays valid and your system stays in top shape.

Emergency? Here’s When to Call Fast

Sometimes, waiting even a day isn’t safe:

• No heat in freezing weather
• AC out during a heatwave
• Burning smells or smoke from vents
• Sparks, power surges, or circuit breaker trips
• Carbon monoxide alarms (turn off system and evacuate)

Holmes Heating & Air offers 24-hour emergency service—because comfort and safety can’t always wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my HVAC filters?

It depends on your system and living conditions. Most homes: every 1–3 months. Homes with pets or allergies: monthly.

Does regular maintenance save money?

Yes. Well-maintained systems run more efficiently, lowering utility costs and reducing the chance of expensive repairs.

Will skipping maintenance void my warranty?

Often, yes. Many manufacturers require proof of annual or semi-annual professional service.

Can I clean my own ducts?

Some dusting is possible, but deep duct cleaning should be left to licensed pros to avoid damaging your system.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Weather can shape your system’s needs. In humid climates, AC and dehumidifiers get a workout. Dry, dusty summers can clog filters fast. Extreme cold puts stress on heating. If you’re in the Birmingham area, you know seasons can be unpredictable. That’s why timely HVAC Maintenance near me in Birmingham, Alabama is so important.

Keep Your System Running Like New

Your comfort is worth protecting—don’t wait for a breakdown to learn the value of regular HVAC maintenance. Whether you’re caring for a single-family home, a growing business, or a property packed with special systems, a little attention now saves a lot of hassle later.

For more on our services, see HVAC Maintenance or AC Maintenance.

Need help setting a schedule, tracking your service history, or signing up for a maintenance agreement? Call Holmes Heating & Air now — or reach us anytime at  888-835-0228 .