Your HVAC system works hard year-round to keep your home comfortable, but like any major appliance, it requires regular maintenance to function efficiently. While it’s essential to schedule professional inspections at least twice a year, there are several DIY HVAC maintenance tasks you can safely handle at home between visits.
These simple steps can help extend the life of your HVAC system, improve your home’s air quality, and reduce energy bills—all without risking damage or voiding your warranty.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you can safely do yourself, when to call in a pro, and how a little upkeep goes a long way in protecting your investment.
1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly
This is the easiest and most important maintenance task you can perform. A clogged or dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, leading to higher energy use and premature wear on components.
How to do it:
Locate your air return vent (usually on a wall or ceiling).
Remove the cover and slide out the old filter.
Insert a new filter with the arrows pointing in the direction of airflow.
When to do it:
Every 1–3 months, depending on the filter type and whether you have pets, allergies, or a dusty environment.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to a HEPA filter or one with a MERV rating of 8 or higher for improved air quality.
2. Clean Around Outdoor Condenser Unit
Your outdoor AC condenser is exposed to the elements—leaves, grass, dirt, and debris can block airflow and reduce efficiency. Keeping this area clean is an easy, effective way to support system performance.
How to do it:
Turn off power to the unit at the breaker.
Remove any leaves or debris from around the base.
Use a garden hose on low pressure to rinse the fins from the inside out.
Trim back any bushes or plants at least 2–3 feet from the unit.
When to do it:
Every spring and fall, or more often if there’s a lot of yard debris.
3. Check and Clean Vents and Registers
Dust and pet hair often build up on supply and return vents, reducing airflow and spreading allergens throughout your home.
How to do it:
Remove vent covers and use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean them.
Wipe down the inside of ducts as far as you can reach with a damp microfiber cloth.
Ensure vents aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs.
When to do it:
Every 1–2 months, especially during peak heating or cooling seasons.
4. Monitor Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat directly controls how hard your HVAC system works. Incorrect settings or malfunctions can lead to energy waste or uneven temperatures.
What to do:
Test your thermostat to ensure it responds accurately to temperature changes.
Replace the batteries in battery-powered units at least once a year.
Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature changes and reduce energy use.
When to do it:
Check settings with each season change, and replace batteries annually.
5. Check the Condensate Drain Line
The drain line removes moisture from your AC system. If it gets clogged, it can cause water damage or shut down your system.
How to do it:
Locate the PVC drain line near your indoor unit.
Pour a cup of white vinegar into the drain line every 1–2 months to kill algae or mold buildup.
Make sure the line is draining freely to the outside or a designated drain.
When to do it:
Every 1–2 months during AC usage season.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises
Paying attention to your system’s normal sounds can help you catch problems early. Unusual noises—like grinding, rattling, or squealing—could be signs of loose parts, motor issues, or airflow problems.
What to do:
Turn off your system and inspect visible parts like vents and fans.
If you hear anything out of the ordinary, contact a professional technician before attempting further inspection.
7. Replace Thermostat Batteries
If your thermostat suddenly stops working or displays incorrect temperatures, a weak battery could be the reason.
How to do it:
Open the thermostat panel and remove the battery compartment.
Replace with fresh AA or AAA batteries depending on the model.
Reset the system if needed.
When to do it:
Once per year, ideally at the start of a season.
When to Call a Professional
While many basic tasks are safe to perform on your own, some maintenance jobs should always be left to licensed HVAC professionals, including:
Refrigerant level checks and recharging
Deep ductwork cleaning
Electrical inspections
Blower motor servicing
Annual system tune-ups and safety inspections
Skipping professional maintenance can not only hurt system performance, but also void your warranty or put your home at risk.
At South Nashville Heating & Cooling, we recommend bi-annual tune-ups—once in spring for cooling systems, and once in fall for heating—to ensure everything is running safely and efficiently.
Benefits of DIY HVAC Maintenance
Staying on top of routine care not only helps prevent breakdowns but also:
Lowers monthly utility bills
Improves indoor air quality
Extends the life of your HVAC equipment
Keeps your warranty valid
Reduces the risk of emergency repairs
Even just 15–30 minutes a month of basic DIY maintenance can make a noticeable difference in your home’s comfort and your energy costs.
Let South Nashville Heating & Cooling Handle the Rest
Your HVAC system is one of the most valuable and used systems in your home. While there’s a lot you can do on your own, nothing replaces professional service from trusted experts.
At South Nashville Heating & Cooling, we offer comprehensive maintenance plans, system inspections, and repairs to keep your system running efficiently, season after season.
👉 Fill out the form below to schedule your HVAC maintenance or learn more about our affordable service plans.
Stay comfortable. Save energy. Breathe better—all year long.
