How Often Should You Service Your HVAC System?

March 14, 2025

Think of your HVAC system like the vehicle parked in your driveway. You invested thousands in both, and you rely on them daily. Just as you wouldn’t skip routine oil changes or brake checks, your heating and cooling deserve the same professional care.

Don’t wait for your AC to quit during a heatwave or your furnace to fail in the dead of winter. Protect your investment and ensure your comfort with regular HVAC maintenance. Like any complex machine with moving parts, it requires regular maintenance to perform at its best.

Carrier Cooling Center has a network of Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers who want to do more than just install your new equipment. They want to help you maintain it so you can avoid costly repairs and get the most value from your investment.

Let’s delve into why regular HVAC service is essential and how often you should schedule it.

Ready to get started? Just click our Find a Dealer link for a free, no-obligation quote. Our Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer coverage area includes Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas. 

The Cost of Ignoring Maintenance

Skipping routine HVAC maintenance might seem like a way to save a few bucks in the short term, but the long-term consequences can be costly and uncomfortable. Here’s what you risk:

Energy Bills Go Up

A dirty or poorly maintained HVAC system has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature. This increased strain translates to higher energy consumption and, consequently, higher energy bills.

Dust and debris buildup on components like air filters, coils, and fans restrict airflow, forcing your system to run longer and consume more power.

System Performance Goes Down

Neglected maintenance gradually declines your system’s performance over time. You might notice inconsistent temperatures, longer run times, and reduced airflow. These issues not only affect your comfort but also put added stress on your system, potentially leading to premature breakdowns and costly repairs.

A Struggling HVAC Means Less Comfort

A properly functioning HVAC system maintains consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home. When maintenance is ignored, you may experience uneven heating or cooling, hot or cold spots, and increased humidity levels. This can significantly impact your comfort and overall quality of life.

Impacts IAQ

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is critical for your health and well-being. A dirty HVAC system can circulate dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens throughout your home, exacerbating respiratory issues and allergies.

Regular maintenance, including filter changes and duct cleaning, helps maintain a healthy indoor environment.

HVAC Maintenance Tips

Regular HVAC maintenance offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
  • Extended System Lifespan: Regular servicing helps prevent premature breakdowns and extends the life of your HVAC equipment.
  • Enhanced Comfort: A properly functioning system maintains consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Regular maintenance helps remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from your indoor air.
  • Reduced Repair Costs: Identifying and addressing minor issues early on can prevent them from escalating into costly repairs.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your HVAC system is in good condition provides peace of mind and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Here are some tips and maintenance timelines to help you keep you HVAC system in top condition: 

AC Maintenance Schedule

For optimal performance, schedule AC maintenance at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season begins.

Key tasks include:

  • Cleaning or replacing air filters
  • Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils
  • Checking refrigerant levels
  • Inspecting electrical connections
  • Lubricating moving parts
  • Testing thermostat accuracy
  • Cleaning drain lines

Furnace Maintenance Schedule

Furnace maintenance should be performed annually in the fall before the heating season starts. 

Essential tasks include:

  • Cleaning or replacing air filters
  • Inspecting the burner and heat exchanger
  • Checking gas pressure and connections
  • Testing the ignition system
  • Inspecting the venting system
  • Checking the thermostat
  • Lubricating moving parts

Boiler Maintenance Schedule

Boiler maintenance should be performed annually in the fall before the heating season.

Key tasks include:

  • Checking water pressure and levels
  • Inspecting the burner and heat exchanger
  • Testing the ignition system
  • Inspecting the venting system
  • Checking for leaks
  • Testing safety controls

Heat Pump Maintenance Schedule

Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, so they require maintenance twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This ensures optimal performance in both modes. Maintenance tasks are a combination of AC and furnace maintenance items.

Air Ducts Maintenance Schedule

Air ducts should be inspected and cleaned every 2-5 years, depending on factors like the presence of pets, allergies, or recent renovations. Dirty ducts can significantly impact IAQ and system efficiency.

DIY HVAC Maintenance Tips

While professional maintenance is crucial, you can perform some basic tasks yourself:

  • Change Air Filters Regularly: Follow the manufacturer guidelines on when to replace your HVAC filter or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
  • Keep Outdoor Units Clean: Remove debris, leaves, and weeds from around your outdoor AC or heat pump unit.
  • Ensure Clear Vents: Make sure supply and return vents are not blocked by furniture or drapes.
  • Test Your Thermostat: Verify that your thermostat is accurately controlling the temperature.

Find Your Local HVAC Expert

Don’t wait until your HVAC system breaks down to schedule maintenance. In the hot climates of Arizona and Texas, regular AC maintenance is especially crucial. Routine care helps maintain a comfortable, energy-efficient, and healthy home.

Find a Dealer within the Carrier Cooling Center network of HVAC experts throughout Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, Nevada, Idaho, and California. We are your local experts for all of your HVAC needs.