Preparing Your HVAC System for BC Seasons: Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

British Columbia’s weather swings from damp, chilly winters to warm, dry summers and your HVAC system works hard through it all. Yet only about 30% of homeowners schedule preventive maintenance, even though seasonal tune-ups are the best way to improve efficiency, extend equipment life, and prevent costly mid-season breakdowns.

Whether you heat your home with a furnace, boiler, or heat pump, regular maintenance keeps your system performing reliably and safely year-round. Here’s a simple checklist to prepare your HVAC for every BC season.

Fall & Winter Preparation (Heating Season)

1. Schedule a professional furnace inspection.
   A licensed technician should check the heat exchanger, burners, and safety controls. Dirty or cracked components can lead to dangerous carbon-monoxide leaks.
   
   
   

2. Replace filters and clean ducts.
   Airflow restrictions force your furnace to work harder. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones. If you notice dust buildup or have pets, schedule professional duct cleaning.
   
   
   

3. Test smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms.
   Replace batteries and any alarm units older than 10 years to ensure your family’s safety.
   
   
   

4. Seal air leaks.
   Inspect windows, doors, and attic hatches for drafts. Seal gaps with caulk or weather-stripping and insulate attics or crawl spaces to reduce heat loss.
   
   
   

5. Calibrate your thermostat.
   Make sure it reads the correct temperature. Upgrading to a smart thermostat can improve comfort and reduce energy bills by up to 15%.
   
   
   

6. Schedule heat-pump maintenance.
   Have a technician inspect refrigerant levels, test defrost cycles, and verify backup heating elements. Regular servicing prevents expensive winter failures.

   
   
   

Spring & Summer Preparation (Cooling Season)

1. Clean and inspect the outdoor A/C or heat-pump unit.
   Remove leaves, dirt, and debris, and maintain at least 60 cm of clearance around the unit. Straighten bent fins with a fin comb for proper airflow.
   
   
   

2. Check refrigerant lines and coils.
   Look for insulation damage on refrigerant lines and replace as needed. Clean the condenser and evaporator coils to improve heat transfer and efficiency.
   
   
   

3. Flush the condensate drain.
   A clogged drain can cause leaks or water damage. Flush with a vinegar-and-water solution to prevent algae buildup.
   
   
   

4. Book a professional A/C tune-up.
   A technician should test capacitors, motors, and refrigerant charge to ensure optimal performance. With 3 million systems replaced each year, seasonal maintenance is key to avoiding premature replacement.
   
   
   

5. Upgrade if needed.
   If your system is 15+ years old or uses R-22 refrigerant, consider a high-efficiency heat pump. BC Hydro and FortisBC currently offer rebates up to $4,000 for qualifying upgrades, plus bonus incentives for multiple improvements.

Year-Round Tips

• Change filters regularly. Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months to maintain airflow and indoor air quality.
  
  
  

• Keep vents clear. Ensure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking supply or return vents.
  
  
  

• Monitor your energy bills. A sudden increase may signal an issue like a failing motor, refrigerant leak, or duct problem.
  
  

  
  

Why Choose Cohesive Mechanical

Cohesive Mechanical’s certified technicians specialize in seasonal HVAC tune-ups across the Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Mission, and Langley. We use AI-driven diagnostics and IoT sensors to detect issues before they cause breakdowns. Our transparent pricing and customer-first approach ensure your comfort and confidence, in every season.

Services include:

• Furnace & boiler inspections

• Heat pump & A/C tune-ups

• Duct cleaning & sealing

• Smart thermostat installations

• 24/7 emergency HVAC repair
  
  
  

Prepare now and avoid mid-season surprises.
Call Cohesive Mechanical or visit cohesivemech.com to schedule your seasonal HVAC maintenance today.