Let’s be real—living in Los Angeles means you’re basically in a committed relationship with your HVAC system. Whether it’s the Santa Ana winds drying everything out, an unexpected rainy spell, or those 95°F days in October (yes, we all remember), your HVAC is doing some serious heavy lifting.
So the least we can do? Give it some TLC. That’s where a seasonal HVAC maintenance checklist comes in.
I’ll walk you through what you should do every season—spring, summer, fall, and winter—to keep your system running smoothly, efficiently, and without those surprise “why is it 82 degrees in my living room” moments. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Look, I get it. We don’t exactly have “seasons” the way folks in Minnesota do. But LA’s weather still shifts enough throughout the year that your HVAC system needs different things at different times. Spring brings pollen (hello, filters), summer cranks up the AC, fall gets dusty, and winter—well, it might surprise you by actually getting cold at night.
Seasonal maintenance doesn’t just help you stay comfortable. It also:
Now let’s break it down by season.
Spring in LA is like the opening act before summer steals the show. It’s the perfect time to get your AC in shape before you’re living in shorts and blasting it 24/7.
This is HVAC 101, but it’s amazing how easy it is to forget. Dirty filters make your system work harder and gunk up your indoor air. Aim to check them monthly and change every 1–3 months, depending on usage and if you’ve got pets.
💡 Pro tip: If your filter looks gray or dusty, it’s time.
Move furniture, rugs, or plants that might be blocking airflow. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to suck up dust and pet hair from vents.
Is your condenser surrounded by dead leaves or that one rogue palm frond? Clear the space around it—at least 2 feet on all sides. Also, gently hose it down to remove dust and debris. (Just make sure it’s off when you do.)
A licensed HVAC tech can check refrigerant levels, test electrical connections, and clean internal components—things most of us can’t do on our own. It’s like a spring check-up for your AC.
Ah, summer in LA. Whether you’re near the beach or deeper in the Valley, your AC is putting in serious overtime. This is the season where small issues can become big ones fast.
Make sure it’s working correctly and consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. It’ll learn your schedule and help you save money (and arguments about the “right” temperature).
Your AC pulls moisture from the air, which goes out through a condensate drain. If that line gets clogged, water can back up and cause leaks or mold. If you’re comfortable, you can flush it with a bit of distilled vinegar. If not, call a pro.
Clicking? Buzzing? Squealing? Those aren’t good signs. Don’t ignore them—call someone before it gets worse (and more expensive).
Not exactly HVAC maintenance, but it helps reduce the workload. Blocking out direct sun can lower indoor temps by several degrees. Your AC will thank you.
Fall in LA is basically late summer with a pumpkin spice latte. Still, it’s smart to give your HVAC some love before winter comes knocking.
Yep—do it. Fall brings dust, smoke from wildfires, and allergens. If you only remember one thing from this whole article: change. your. filters.
If your ducts haven’t been cleaned in years—or ever—it might be time. Especially if:
Don’t wait until the one cold snap to find out it’s not working. Turn it on for a bit and see if it kicks in, smells weird, or makes odd noises.
Especially important if you have a gas furnace. Replace the batteries and test the alarm.
Okay, we’re not talking sub-zero temps, but LA winters can get chilly—especially overnight or in older homes that don’t hold heat well. Your HVAC system needs to be ready to switch gears.
If it’s gas-powered, look for signs of rust, soot, or corrosion. Turn it off and vacuum around it to remove dust buildup.
Grab some weather stripping or caulk and go to town on leaky doors and windows. Not only will it help your HVAC system work less, but your toes will also stay warmer.
This is more of an energy-saving tip. Drop it by 5–8°F when you’re asleep or away. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this super easy.
In LA, it’s not always necessary, but if you live somewhere dust-heavy or near the hills, you might want to loosely cover it with a breathable cover to keep out debris.
Living in LA means a few extras might come in handy that don’t always make the “standard” HVAC checklist.
Smoke can sneak into your home even with the windows closed. HEPA-rated filters (or a standalone air purifier) can make a big difference in indoor air quality.
These need a little different care. Make sure the indoor heads are dusted, the filters are cleaned monthly, and the outdoor condenser stays clear year-round.
Between the dry climate and desert breezes, dust is always a thing. Clean around vents, vacuum frequently, and don’t forget ceiling fans—they fling that stuff everywhere.
There’s plenty you can do yourself, but don’t hesitate to bring in a licensed HVAC technician if you:
Also, if your system’s more than 10–15 years old and starting to act up, it might be time to talk replacements. (Sorry.)
| Season | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Spring | Replace filters, clean vents, inspect outdoor unit, schedule tune-up |
| Summer | Check thermostat, flush drain line, listen for odd noises, reduce heat gain |
| Fall | Replace filters, test heater, clean ducts, check CO detectors |
| Winter | Clean furnace, seal drafts, use smart thermostat settings, optional AC cover |
Your HVAC system is kind of like your car. If you never changed the oil or ignored the “check engine” light, things wouldn’t go well, right? Same idea here.
With just a bit of attention each season, you’ll save money, stress less, and stay comfy all year in the LA heat—or those rare 50°F nights that feel like the Arctic.
So go ahead—bookmark this checklist, set some calendar reminders, and give your HVAC system the love it deserves. It’s working hard for you. Show it a little gratitude.