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2024 HVAC Maintenance Schedule: Protecting Your System Through West Virginia’s Harsh Seasonal Changes

Don’t Let West Virginia’s Wild Weather Wreck Your HVAC System: Your 2024 Maintenance Guide

Living in West Virginia means experiencing some of the most dramatic seasonal changes in the country. The climate of West Virginia is characterized by moderately cold winters and warm, humid summers. The jet stream, which is located near or over the Northeast region during the winter, brings frequent storm systems, which cause cloudy skies, windy conditions, and precipitation. West Virginia’s winter is characterized by cold days and even colder nights. Temperatures frequently dip below freezing, with average lows hovering between 15°F (-9.4°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C). Snowfall is a defining feature of the season, with various regions of the state receiving between 40″ (1016mm) to 120″ (3048mm) of snow.

For homeowners in the Mountain State, these extreme weather conditions put tremendous stress on HVAC systems. Seasonal changes have a significant impact on commercial HVAC systems. As temperatures shift and weather conditions fluctuate, the demands on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems vary. That’s why having a comprehensive 2024 HVAC maintenance schedule isn’t just recommended—it’s essential for protecting your investment and ensuring year-round comfort.

Spring Preparation: Getting Ready for Summer’s Heat

Contractors get busy once summer and winter come, so it’s best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. Spring maintenance is crucial for preparing your system for West Virginia’s hot, humid summers. The summer months in West Virginia are marked by high temperatures ranging from 82°F (27.8°C) to 87°F (30.6°C). The humidity level often escalates during this season, making some days feel warmer than they actually are.

Your spring maintenance checklist should include:

  • Replace Air Filters: Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder. Replace or clean your air filters to improve efficiency and air quality.
  • Clean the Outdoor Unit: Check the outdoor condenser unit for debris like leaves or branches. Clear away any obstructions to ensure proper airflow and cooling efficiency.
  • Schedule a Professional Tune-Up: Have a professional HVAC repairman inspect and tune up your system. They can identify potential issues before they become major problems and ensure your system is ready for the summer.

Summer Vigilance: Peak Performance Under Pressure

Summer brings high temperatures and increased cooling demands. Commercial HVAC systems often experience peak usage during this season, which can strain the system if not properly maintained. During West Virginia’s intense summer months, your HVAC system works overtime to combat both heat and humidity.

Critical summer maintenance tasks include:

  • Inspect the Condenser Unit: The condenser unit, located outside, can become clogged with dirt and debris. Regularly clean and inspect it to ensure efficient operation.
  • Monitor System Performance: Keep an eye on system performance and listen for unusual noises. Address any issues promptly to avoid system failures during the hottest months.
  • You should change your AC filter every 30 to 90 days.

Fall Preparation: Transitioning to Heating Season

As the weather cools down, it’s time to prepare your HVAC system for the heating season. Autumn in West Virginia is a visual treat. The early and middle parts of the season are relatively mild, providing an ideal backdrop for the state’s changing foliage. However, temperatures can drop quickly, making heating system preparation crucial.

Essential fall maintenance includes:

  • Replace or Clean Air Filters: Just like in spring, replacing or cleaning air filters is important for efficient heating. Clogged filters can impede airflow and make your furnace work more strenuously.
  • Inspect the Furnace: Inspect your furnace for any signs of damage or problems. Ensure that the pilot light is working and that there are no unusual noises.
  • Seal Drafts: Inspect your home for drafts around windows and doors. Sealing these drafts can help keep warm air in and cold air out, reducing the workload on your heating system.

Winter Maintenance: Surviving the Mountain State’s Harsh Cold

West Virginia winters are particularly challenging for HVAC systems. Winter is the worst time to visit West Virginia as the weather is cold, and temperatures are below freezing. Fog is a constant companion as the cloudy skies hide the sun for many days. Snow and rain both are persistent during the winter, and the roads are icy.

Winter maintenance priorities include:

  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Arrange for regular HVAC maintenance during the winter months. A professional technician can inspect the system, address any issues, and ensure that it operates efficiently throughout the season.
  • If you have a thermostat that runs on battery power, change the batteries once a year. If the thermostat batteries die, your HVAC system usually won’t turn on.
  • Monitor for ice buildup around outdoor units and ensure proper ventilation

Why Professional Maintenance Matters

Regular professional inspections are crucial for maintaining the health of your HVAC system. A qualified HVAC technician can identify and address potential issues that may not be apparent during routine maintenance. Investing in professional inspections helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your HVAC system.

For residents seeking reliable HVAC services Charleston, WV, Fellowship Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration understands the unique challenges of West Virginia’s climate. We understand West Virginia’s climate challenges and what it takes to keep HVAC systems running efficiently through hot, humid summers and cold winters. GIVING BACK: 10% off for military, veterans, first responders & community organizations! With Fellowship, you’re promised expert heating and cooling services with no hidden fees and results that last.

The Bottom Line: Consistency is Key

Homeowners should schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year. It’s recommended to have maintenance performed in the spring before the cooling season and in the fall before the heating season to ensure optimal performance and efficiency, but it’s far better have a tune-up performed at all than avoiding it.

Seasonal changes significantly impact your HVAC system’s efficiency. By understanding how each season affects your system and taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently, extends its lifespan, and keeps your home comfortable year-round. Routine maintenance and prompt adjustments not only preserve efficiency but also help prevent expensive repairs.

Don’t wait for your system to fail during West Virginia’s most extreme weather. We, along with most HVAC companies, recommend that you always take the time to perform regular maintenance on your HVAC system before the summer and winter seasons. It is always beneficial to have a maintenance plan to have your system looked at after a period of little to no use, just before it begins getting weekly or daily use once hot or cold weather begins to hit. If there are problems, they can be caught early on before they grow into expensive repair or replacement jobs. Create your 2024 maintenance schedule today and protect your home’s comfort through every season the Mountain State throws your way.