3 Essential HVAC Maintenance Tips for Columbus, OH Homeowners

Your home’s HVAC system plays a major role in your comfort and energy efficiency—especially during the extreme temperatures we experience here in Columbus, Ohio. Regular HVAC maintenance is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to avoid breakdowns, reduce energy bills, and extend the life of your equipment.

In this article, we’ll cover three simple yet powerful HVAC maintenance steps you can do at home, explain when it’s time to call in a professional, and share tips for keeping your heating and cooling systems running efficiently year-round.

Why Preventive HVAC Maintenance Matters

Heating and air conditioning units in Columbus homes often work overtime in both summer and winter. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.¹ Regular air conditioner maintenance also reduces the risk of sudden breakdowns and extends the life of your system.

Step 1: Change or Clean Your Air Filters

How Often Should You Replace HVAC Filters?

During peak seasons—especially winter and summer—your HVAC system is constantly running. To maintain good airflow and indoor air quality, replace your air filters once a month. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, you may need to replace them even more frequently.

Can You Clean Filters Instead?

If you’re using reusable filters, you can clean them instead of replacing them. Just make sure to dry them completely before reinstalling to prevent mold growth. Keeping your air filters clean improves energy efficiency and ensures cleaner air circulates throughout your home.

Step 2: Maintain Your Outdoor HVAC Unit

Your outdoor AC or heat pump unit can easily collect debris like leaves, twigs, and grass clippings. Left unchecked, this buildup can block airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary.

Outdoor Unit Maintenance Checklist:

• Clear a 2-foot perimeter around the unit free from plants or obstructions.
• After storms or lawn care, remove any visible debris.
• Rinse the condenser coils gently with a hose to remove dirt and keep your air conditioner clean without damaging its components.
• If possible, shade the outdoor intake fan to help reduce incoming air temperature. According to the EPA, shading your unit can increase its efficiency by up to 10%.²

These small changes can boost air conditioning efficiency and help you stay cool with less energy use.

Step 3: Inspect Ductwork and Insulation

Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of conditioned air before it reaches your rooms.³ That’s money—and comfort—lost. Wondering if cleaning your air ducts is worth it? Removing buildup can improve airflow and indoor air quality significantly.

What to Look For:

• Visually inspect ductwork for punctures or gaps.
• Check for loose or disconnected sections.
• Ensure insulation is intact, especially in unconditioned spaces like attics or crawlspaces.
• Reseal joints with mastic sealant or HVAC tape as needed.
• Improving your ductwork not only improves airflow and system efficiency but can also significantly lower monthly utility costs.

When to Call a Columbus HVAC Professional

Not sure how often your air conditioner needs service? Twice-a-year maintenance, before the cooling and heating seasons, is ideal

Professional technicians have the tools and training to:

• Test system performance
• Identify worn parts before they fail
• Perform deep cleaning and safety checks
• Optimize system settings for maximum efficiency

If your system is noisy, not cooling or heating properly, or driving up your energy bills, don’t wait—book a diagnostic visit with a trusted Columbus HVAC company like Sears Heating & Cooling. Take proactive steps now to maintain your AC unit with regular inspections before peak temperatures hit Columbus.

Frequently Asked HVAC Questions

1. How do I know if my HVAC system needs maintenance?

If your energy bills are rising, your home feels unevenly heated or cooled, or your system runs constantly, it’s time for maintenance.

2. What’s the average life span of an HVAC system?

With proper maintenance, most systems last 12–15 years. Without it, lifespan and efficiency can drop significantly.

3. Can dirty filters really cause system damage?

Yes—dirty filters restrict airflow, which can cause overheating, frozen coils, and compressor failure.

4. How much can regular maintenance save me?

Routine HVAC service can reduce your energy costs by up to 20% annually while avoiding costly emergency repairs.

5. What should be included in a professional HVAC tune-up?

A comprehensive tune-up includes cleaning, inspection, thermostat calibration, refrigerant level checks, and safety testing.