Spring & Fall HVAC Prep: Transition Your System

Bay Area seasons are mild, but spring and fall transitions can stress your HVAC. Follow this prep guide to ensure smooth transitions and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Spring Prep (For Summer Cooling)

April/May Checklist

1. Professional AC Maintenance ✓

• Annual AC tune-up essential before peak summer
• Refrigerant check
• Coil cleaning
• Electrical connections
• Cost: $150-250 | ROI: Prevents $1,000+ emergency calls

2. Replace Filter

• Clean filter = better cooling
• Start fresh for summer
• Every 30-90 days during season

3. Clean Outdoor Unit

• Remove leaves, pollen, debris
• 2 feet clearance on all sides
• Gently wash fins if dirty
• Don't use pressure washer

4. Check Thermostat

• Switch from Heat to Cool
• Test temperature setting
• Check for battery in programmable
• Clean display screen

5. Inspect Ductwork

• Look for visible leaks
• Seal obvious gaps with duct tape
• Schedule professional sealing if needed

6. Check Condensate Drain

• Outdoor unit should have small drain
• Should see water dripping (not inside!)
• Clogged drain = water damage

Spring Red Flags

⚠️ AC not switching to cooling mode ⚠️ Warm air from vents in test run ⚠️ Puddles around outdoor unit ⚠️ Outdoor unit making strange noise

Action: Call for service immediately

Fall Prep (For Winter Heating)

October/November Checklist

1. Professional Furnace/Heat Pump Maintenance ✓

• Annual heating tune-up critical
• Gas furnace: Check burner and ignition
• Heat pump: Refrigerant and reversing valve
• Electrical safety checks
• Cost: $150-250 | ROI: Prevents winter emergencies

2. Replace Filter

• Start heating season with fresh filter
• MERV 11 recommended (upgrade to 13 for allergies)

3. Test Heating System

• Set thermostat to heat 5°F above room temp
• Hear blower start within 2 minutes
• Feel warm air from vents
• No burning smell on startup

4. Check Thermostat Battery

• If programmable, replace battery NOW
• Don't get stuck with no heat in January
• Test temperature setting

5. Clear Outdoor Unit

• Remove leaves and debris (mini-splits and heat pumps)
• Clearance critical for frost/ice melt
• Blocked unit = reduced efficiency or failure

6. Inspect Ducts for Air Leaks

• Seal visible gaps with duct tape
• Professional sealing prevents 20% energy loss
• Especially important before heating season

7. Bleed Air from Radiators (If you have steam/water heat)

• Prevents cold spots
• Ask us about compatibility if unsure

Fall Red Flags

⚠️ Furnace won't start ⚠️ No heat or weak heating ⚠️ Burning smell when starting ⚠️ Heat pump not switching to heat ⚠️ Thermostat showing "Error"

Action: Call immediately (emergency rates apply in winter)

Bay Area Specific Seasonal Issues

Spring Challenges

• Pollen buildup: Clean filters frequently (monthly)
• Mold: Spring moisture, check AC drain
• Dust storms: May need more filter changes

Fall Challenges

• Leaf debris: Keep outdoor units clear
• Temperature swings: System cycling on/off
• Rust/corrosion: Moisture from coastal fog

DIY vs Professional

DIY (You Can Do)

✓ Change filter ✓ Clean outdoor unit exterior ✓ Clear leaves/debris ✓ Inspect visible areas ✓ Check thermostat function

Professional (Required)

✓ Refrigerant charge check ✓ Electrical safety testing ✓ Gas furnace ignition inspection ✓ Professional duct sealing ✓ Advanced diagnostics

Seasonal Maintenance Costs

Spring AC prep: $150-250 Fall heat prep: $150-250 Annual total: $300-500 Average repair calls: $500-1,500 each

ROI: Maintenance prevents emergency calls = net savings of $500-1,000/year

Schedule Your Seasonal Prep

Best timing:

• Spring prep: March-April (before heat wave)
• Fall prep: September-October (before cold snap)

Don't wait until:

• June (peak cooling emergencies)
• December (peak heating emergencies, higher prices)

Spring/Fall Energy Tips

Spring (Cooling prep)

• Set thermostat to 72°F or higher
• Use ceiling fans
• Close blinds on sunny sides
• Program to turn off at night

Fall (Heating prep)

• Set to 68°F or lower
• Use programmable thermostat
• Layer up instead of raising heat
• Use scheduling to reduce when away

Questions Before Your Appointment

Ask your technician:

1. What's the refrigerant charge level?
2. Electrical connections tight?
3. Any issues found?
4. Recommended repairs?
5. When's next service due?

Ready for Seasonal Transition?

Book your spring or fall HVAC maintenance now and avoid emergency breakdowns.

Schedule Maintenance | Call (925) 578-3293