Skip to main content

    HVAC Maintenance

    Annual service prevents breakdowns.

    Annual maintenance plan

    • Most HVAC companies offer plans.
    • $150-$300/year typical.
    • Spring AC tune-up.
    • Fall furnace tune-up.
    • Priority service when broken.
    • Discounts on repairs.

    DIY filter changes

    • Change every 1-3 months.
    • FilterEasy app — auto-shipment.
    • Saves trips to hardware store.
    • Sized to your HVAC.
    • Major cause of HVAC failure = dirty filter.
    • Easy senior DIY task.

    Smart thermostat

    • Nest, Ecobee — $130-$250.
    • Learns your patterns.
    • Saves 10-15% on energy bills.
    • Control from phone.
    • Geofencing — adjusts when you leave.
    • Great senior upgrade.

    Energy bill apps

    • Utility company apps — track usage.
    • OhmConnect — earn rewards reducing usage.
    • Sense — home energy monitor ($300).
    • Identify energy hogs.
    • Most utilities offer free analysis.
    • Lower bills + carbon impact.

    When to replace

    • HVAC lifespan 15-20 years.
    • Repairs over $1,500 — consider replacing.
    • New systems much more efficient.
    • Federal tax credits available.
    • State + utility rebates.
    • Heat pumps increasingly popular.

    Find HVAC pro

    • Yelp, Google reviews critical.
    • Ask neighbors via Nextdoor.
    • Verify license + insurance.
    • Energy Star certified contractors.
    • Get 3 quotes for big jobs.
    • Annual contract for reliable service.

    $200/year prevents disasters

    Annual HVAC maintenance plan ($150-$300/year) catches small problems before they become $5,000 replacements. Spring + fall tune-ups discover issues. Plus priority service when AC fails on hottest day. For senior homes especially — comfortable home prevents heat stroke + cold dangers. Worth every dollar.