You know that feeling when you wake up in Colorado Springs and it’s 70 degrees, then by afternoon there’s snow on the ground? Yeah, that’s just a regular Tuesday around here. I’ve lived in this beautiful city for over a decade, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that our HVAC systems really take a beating from our crazy weather.
Last spring, my neighbor’s air conditioner totally conked out on the first 85-degree day of the year. Want to guess how long she had to wait for a repair tech? Three days. Three sweaty, miserable days, all because she didn’t think to get her system ready before the heat hit.
Seriously, don’t be like my neighbor. Let’s chat about everything you need to know to prep your HVAC system for each season here in Colorado Springs. Trust me, your future self will give you a big high-five when you’re chilling comfortably inside while everyone else is panicking over emergency repairs.
Why Colorado Springs Weather is Tough on HVAC Systems
Before we dive into the good stuff, let’s chat a bit about why our local climate is so tough on heating and cooling systems. We’re sitting pretty at over 6,000 feet above sea level, which means a few things for your HVAC:
- Air pressure is lower (so your system has to work harder)
- Temperature swings can be wild (think 30-40 degree differences in a single day!)
- We get intense UV exposure that really beats up those outdoor units
- Dry air all year round puts extra stress on components
- Sudden weather changes don’t give systems much time to gradually get used to things
I totally remember one March day when it was a balmy 75 degrees at lunch, and by 6 PM we had 8 inches of snow. That kind of weather whiplash is exactly why preventive maintenance isn’t just a good idea here – it’s a real must-do.
Spring HVAC Prep: Getting Ready for the Warm-Up
Spring in Colorado Springs is a total wild card – seriously, you never know what you’re going to get! One day you’re cranking the heat, the next you’re blasting the AC. Here’s how to get your system ready for this unpredictable season.
Check Out Your Outdoor Unit After Winter
Winter can be super rough on your outdoor condenser unit. I’ve personally seen everything from crazy hail damage to little squirrels deciding to build nests right inside the equipment. So, here’s what to look for:
Take a walk around your unit and check for any obvious damage. Bent fins, dented panels, or loose bits are big red flags. If you spot any ice buildup (which happens more often than you’d think with our late spring storms!), don’t even think about chipping it off. Just let it melt naturally, or you could accidentally damage the coils.
Also, clear away any gunk that piled up over winter. Dead leaves, branches, and yep, sometimes even tumbleweeds can totally block the airflow. Your unit needs at least two feet of clear space on all sides to work its best.
Swap Out Those Air Filters
This step is huge, especially here in Colorado Springs where we constantly battle dust, pollen, and the occasional wildfire smoke. A clogged filter makes your system work way harder and can even cause your evaporator coils to freeze up. Yikes!
I personally check my filters monthly during peak seasons, but at the very least, you should swap them out every three months. If you’ve got pets or suffer from allergies, changing them monthly isn’t overkill at all. And please, for the love of comfort, don’t buy the cheapest filters thinking you’re saving a buck. A good quality MERV 8-11 filter will really protect both your system and your lungs.
Test Your Air Conditioning Before You Actually Need It
Don’t wait until that first 80-degree day to discover your AC isn’t doing its job. In March or early April, when it’s still pretty mild outside, try turning your thermostat down about 10 degrees and let the system run for 30 minutes.
Listen for any weird noises – grinding, squealing, or banging sounds definitely mean you need a pro to take a look. Feel the air coming from your vents. It should be noticeably cooler than the room temperature. If it’s not, you might have a refrigerant leak or some other issue brewing.
Give Your Vents and Registers a Good Clean
Okay, this might be one of those less exciting chores, but it makes a huge difference! Dusty vents restrict airflow and force your system to work harder. Just pop off the vent covers and give them a good wash with soap and water. While they’re drying, you can even vacuum out the first few inches of the ductwork if you can easily reach it.
Schedule That Professional Maintenance
I seriously can’t emphasize this enough – professional maintenance is absolutely worth every penny. A good tech will spot little issues before they turn into major, expensive emergencies. They’ll check refrigerant levels, clean coils, test electrical connections, and make sure your thermostat is calibrated just right.
The folks at Accurate Air Control really know Colorado Springs weather inside and out. They’ve been keeping homes comfy here for years, and their technicians totally get the unique challenges our climate throws at your system. You can give them a ring at (719) 440-6977 to set up your spring tune-up.
Peek at Your Ductwork in Accessible Spots
You don’t need to go full-on crawl through your entire duct system, but take a look at what you can see in basements, crawl spaces, or utility rooms. Keep an eye out for disconnected joints, damaged insulation, or any signs of moisture. Leaky ducts can actually waste a whopping 20-30% of your conditioned air!
Give Your Thermostat a Test Run
Your thermostat is basically the brain of your HVAC system. So, test both heating and cooling modes to make sure it’s switching over smoothly. If you have a programmable thermostat, now’s a great time to update your schedule for those longer days and warmer weather.
If you haven’t already, maybe think about upgrading to a smart thermostat. They learn your habits, adjust automatically, and can save you a solid 10-15% on energy bills. Plus, you can tweak temperatures remotely – super handy when our weather decides to change on a dime!
Don’t Forget Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
This isn’t strictly HVAC maintenance, but it’s super important for your safety. Test your CO detectors and swap out batteries if they need it. If you’re ever worried about carbon monoxide safety and HVAC system inspections, it’s definitely smart to have a professional check your system.
Gear Up for Allergy Season
Colorado Springs springs can be pretty brutal for allergies. Tree pollen hits early, then grass pollen follows in late spring. Good news: your HVAC system is actually your first line of defense!
Think about upgrading to a higher-efficiency filter during allergy season. Keep those windows closed on high pollen days and let your system do the work of filtering the air instead. If allergies are a big problem for you, you might even want to look into indoor air quality solutions designed specifically for Colorado’s dry climate.
Summer HVAC Prep: Keeping Cool at Altitude
Summer in Colorado Springs isn’t quite as brutal as, say, Phoenix, but don’t let that fool you! We regularly hit the 90s, and with our super intense UV rays and dry air, your AC system really faces some unique challenges.
Give Your Outdoor Unit a Deep Clean
By summer, your condenser unit has probably been through spring winds, tons of cottonwood fluff (ugh, the absolute worst!), and even some early season storms. It’s definitely ready for a good, thorough cleaning.
First, turn off the power to the unit at both the disconnect switch and the breaker – safety first! Carefully remove the top panel – just know there are usually sharp fins underneath. Then, spray out the coils from the inside, gently pushing any debris out rather than deeper in. Be super gentle; those fins bend really easily.
And don’t forget the very bottom of the unit. Clear out any leaves or gunk that might be blocking proper drainage.
Keep an Eye on Refrigerant Lines
Those copper lines running from your outdoor unit into your house should always be insulated. Colorado’s intense UV rays can break down that insulation over time. If they’re exposed, those lines have to work way harder to maintain temperature and can even freeze up.
If you spot any damaged insulation, it’s actually an easy DIY fix with some foam pipe insulation from any hardware store. Just double-check that the power is off and the lines aren’t hot before you touch them.
Smart Thermostat Settings for Summer
Okay, this is where a lot of folks make expensive mistakes. Setting your thermostat to a super chilly 65 degrees when it’s 95 outside doesn’t actually cool your house faster – it just makes your system run non-stop and rack up your energy bill.
I personally keep mine at 78 during the day and 75 at night. That might sound a bit warm, but with our low humidity, it’s surprisingly comfortable. Plus, every degree you lower your thermostat can increase your energy bill by about 8%!
A little tip: use ceiling fans to get the air moving. They can make you feel 3-4 degrees cooler, so you can set your thermostat higher without feeling like you’re sacrificing comfort.
Handle Indoor Humidity
Our dry climate usually means humidity levels are low, but summer monsoons can definitely spike indoor moisture. High humidity makes your AC work harder and can even lead to yucky mold issues.
If you notice condensation on your windows or a musty smell, you might need a dehumidifier. On the flip side, if the air feels too dry (which is common when the AC runs constantly), a small humidifier in bedrooms can really help with sleep and respiratory comfort.
Get Ready for Monsoon Season
July and August bring those classic afternoon thunderstorms, often with hail, high winds, and power outages. If you’re in a hail-prone area, consider protecting your outdoor unit with a hail guard. They’re not pricey and can save you thousands in potential damage.
It’s also a good idea to turn off your system’s power during severe storms. Power surges from lightning can totally fry expensive components. A whole-house surge protector is definitely something to think about if you don’t have one.
Watch for Warning Signs
Summer is prime time for AC systems to call it quits. Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- Ice forming on indoor or outdoor coils
- Warm air blowing from your vents
- Any unusual noises or smells
- Your system running constantly but not actually cooling
- Suddenly much higher electric bills
Seriously, don’t ignore these signs hoping they’ll just disappear. Summer emergency HVAC repair services get totally booked up fast when everyone’s AC decides to die on the same 95-degree day.
Keep Airflow Smooth
Here’s a common misconception: closing vents doesn’t actually save energy. In fact, it creates pressure imbalances that can totally damage your system. So, keep all your vents open, even in rooms you’re not using.
Also, double-check that furniture, curtains, or decorations aren’t blocking any vents. Your system is designed to cool your entire house, not work its way around obstacles.
Thinking About Energy Efficiency Upgrades?
Summer is when you really feel how much an inefficient system hits your electric bill. If your AC is over 10 years old and just struggling to keep up, it might be time to think about replacing it.
Newer systems are dramatically more efficient. A 20-year-old system might only be 8-10 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), while brand new ones are 16+ SEER. That’s literally half the energy usage for the same cooling!
Take a look at HVAC replacement vs repair options if your system is showing its age. Sometimes a repair makes sense, but often a replacement truly pays for itself in energy savings over time.
Fall HVAC Prep: Getting Ready for Winter
Fall is absolutely my favorite season in Colorado Springs! Those beautiful golden aspens are gorgeous, but heads up – they’re also dropping leaves that can totally clog your system.
Switching from Cooling to Heating Mode
This sounds super obvious, right? But there’s a bit more to it than just flipping a switch on your thermostat. Your system needs a little time to adjust, and there are a few things you should check first.
Before you fire up your heat for the very first time, make sure to replace your air filter. All that summer cooling can load it up with dust and debris, and you definitely don’t want to start heating season with a clogged filter.
Test Your Heating System Early
Seriously, don’t wait for that first deep freeze to figure out your heat isn’t working! In September or early October, when it’s cool but not yet freezing, give your system a test run.
Turn your thermostat up about 10 degrees and let the heat run for 30 minutes. It’s totally normal to smell a little dust burning off – that’s just accumulated summer dust on the heat exchanger. BUT, if you smell gas, shut the system down immediately and call for help. That’s a serious safety alert.
Listen for any unusual noises. Heating systems make different sounds than AC, but grinding, banging, or squealing always mean trouble.
Clean and Inspect Your Furnace
If you have a gas furnace, there are a few things you can easily check yourself. First, make sure the area around your furnace is totally clear – no storage boxes, cleaning supplies, or holiday decorations. Your furnace needs good ventilation and plenty of space.
Also, take a look at the flue pipe (that metal pipe that vents exhaust outside). Check for rust, disconnected joints, or any signs of corrosion. This is a big safety issue – a damaged flue pipe can let dangerous carbon monoxide into your home.
Get Ready for Leaf Season
Colorado Springs autumns are stunning, but they can be pretty messy. All those beautiful leaves can really wreak havoc on your outdoor unit. So, keep the area around your condenser clear, and check it weekly during peak leaf drop.
And don’t forget about cottonwood trees! They drop their leaves pretty late in the season, sometimes even into November. Those big, fluffy leaves can completely block airflow if you’re not careful.
Flip That Ceiling Fan Direction
Here’s a super simple trick that can save you some real money all winter. Most ceiling fans have a little switch that reverses the blade direction. In winter, you want them turning clockwise (when you’re looking up at them) to gently push warm air down from the ceiling.
This helps spread heat more evenly throughout the room and can even let you dial your thermostat down a degree or two without feeling any less comfortable.
Seal Up Air Leaks
Fall is absolutely the perfect weather for hunting down sneaky air leaks. Grab a candle or an incense stick and walk around windows, doors, and anywhere pipes or wires enter your home. If the smoke wavers, bingo! You’ve found a leak.
Caulk and weatherstrip are super cheap fixes that can save you serious cash on heating bills. And don’t forget spots like the attic hatch, basement rim joists, and around recessed lights.
Schedule Your Heating System Maintenance
Just like with your AC in the spring, getting professional heating maintenance in the fall is money incredibly well spent. A technician will clean your system, check gas pressures, test all the safety controls, and make sure everything’s totally ready for winter.
Fall maintenance catches problems before you’re shivering in January waiting forever for a repair tech. It also helps keep your warranty valid and can extend your system’s life by years.
Check Your Insulation and Ductwork
Fall is a great time to take a quick peek at your attic insulation. Colorado Springs building codes have changed over the years, and older homes often just don’t have enough insulation for our climate.
Look for gaps, squished-down areas, or any signs of moisture damage. A good rule of thumb: if you can see the tops of your ceiling joists, you probably need more insulation.
Be Ready for Those Temperature Swings
Fall weather in Colorado Springs can be absolutely wild! I’ve seen 70-degree days followed by sudden snow storms. Your HVAC system really needs to handle these swings smoothly.
If you don’t have one, consider a programmable or smart thermostat. They can automatically adjust for temperature changes and even learn your schedule to get the best comfort and efficiency.
Winter HVAC Prep: Staying Warm When It’s Freezing Outside
Winter is when your HVAC system truly earns its keep, right? Colorado Springs winters aren’t quite as harsh as Denver or the high mountains, but we still get plenty of cold snaps, snow, and ice that can really put your heating system to the test.
Protect Your Outdoor Unit
Even though you’re not using your AC in winter, your outdoor unit still needs some attention. Always clear snow and ice away from the unit, but seriously, don’t use hot water or try to chip ice off – you could easily damage those delicate fins.
Some folks like to cover their AC units in winter, but I generally don’t recommend it unless you live in a super extreme weather area. Covers can actually trap moisture, which can cause more problems than they prevent.
Keep an Eye on Your Heating System
Winter is when heating systems work their hardest and, unfortunately, tend to fail most often. So, keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Uneven heating between rooms (some spots are toasty, others are chilly)
- Your system running constantly but not quite reaching the temperature you set
- Any strange smells (especially gas or burning odors – that’s a big one!)
- Yellow or flickering pilot light flames (should be blue and steady)
- Excessive dust or really dry air
Any of these issues mean it’s time for a professional to take a look. And please, never try to fix gas appliances yourself – it’s just not worth the safety risk.
Keep That Humidity Just Right
Colorado’s winter air is notoriously bone dry, often dropping below 10% humidity indoors. This isn’t just uncomfortable – it actually makes you feel colder, which means you’ll crank up the heat and waste energy.
A whole-house humidifier is the best solution, but even portable units can make a big difference. Aim for 30-40% humidity. You’ll feel warmer at lower temperatures and save some good money on heating.
Make Sure Vents and Returns Are Clear
This is super important in winter, especially when rooms tend to be closed up more. Don’t block heating vents with furniture, curtains, or holiday decorations. And make sure those return air vents (the big ones without dampers) stay totally unobstructed.
Just a reminder: closing vents in unused rooms doesn’t actually save energy. Instead, it creates pressure imbalances that can totally damage your system and end up wasting energy anyway.
Change Filters Even More Often
Winter air can be pretty dusty, and heating systems really move a lot of air around. So, check your filter monthly and change it as soon as it looks dirty. A clogged filter in winter can cause your heat exchanger to overheat and crack – believe me, that’s an expensive repair you want to avoid!
If you have pets or use your fireplace regularly, you might even need to change filters more often than that.
Be Ready for Power Outages
Winter storms can definitely knock out power, leaving you suddenly without heat. So, have a backup plan ready – think space heaters, extra blankets, and a safe way to stay warm.
If you do lose power, make sure to turn your thermostat down before the electricity comes back on. This keeps your system from trying to heat a super cold house all at once, which can really overload the system.
Watch Your Energy Bills
Winter heating bills are always higher, but sudden, dramatic increases can definitely signal problems. If your system is working harder than normal, it might have issues that need a pro’s attention.
Try comparing your bills to the same months last year. If your usage is way up but your habits haven’t changed, give someone a call for a system check.
Start Thinking About Spring
As winter starts to wind down, it’s smart to begin thinking about getting ready for spring. Order new filters, get your maintenance scheduled, and start planning any upgrades or repairs you’ve been putting off.
Year-Round HVAC Habits: Keeping Things Smooth
Some HVAC care doesn’t really follow the seasons – it’s more of an ongoing thing. These year-round habits will help keep your system humming along smoothly no matter what crazy weather Colorado Springs throws your way.
Monthly Filter Checks (Yes, Again!)
I know, I know, I keep talking about filters, but they are that important! Seriously, check them monthly, and change them as soon as they look dirty. It’s truly the single most important thing you can do for your system.
Keep a few spare filters on hand so you’re not scrambling around when you suddenly need one. Buying them in bulk can save you a little money, and please, make absolutely sure you get the right size – trying to force the wrong size filter in can actually let dust completely bypass it.
Regular Professional Maintenance
Go ahead and schedule professional maintenance twice a year – once in the spring for your cooling system, and once in the fall for your heating. This isn’t really optional if you want reliable operation and to get the most life out of your system.
Good HVAC companies often have maintenance agreements that include things like priority service, discounts on repairs, and those regular tune-ups. Think of it like insurance for your home comfort!
Keep Outdoor Units Clear
All year long, make sure your outdoor unit has plenty of clear space around it. We’re talking two feet on all sides, and five feet above. Trim back any bushes, clear away debris, and just generally keep the area tidy.
Don’t plant flowers or shrubs too close, even if you think they’ll hide the unit. They’ll just block airflow and cause headaches. If you want to screen your unit, use a fence or lattice with lots of breathing room.
Watch Your Energy Usage
Keep a close eye on your energy bills. Sudden spikes often signal HVAC problems even before you notice any comfort issues. Most utility companies offer super handy online tools to track your usage patterns.
Smart thermostats can also track how long your system runs and even alert you to potential problems. They’re totally worth the investment just for those monitoring capabilities alone.
Deal with Problems Quickly
Seriously, don’t ignore small issues hoping they’ll just magically disappear. That weird noise, a slightly higher bill, or that one room that’s always too hot or cold needs attention. Little problems almost always turn into big, expensive emergencies if you wait.
Plan for System Replacement Down the Road
HVAC systems don’t last forever, sadly. Here in Colorado Springs, with our temperature extremes and intense UV exposure, 15-20 years is pretty typical for a well-maintained system. So, start thinking about replacement when your system hits the 10-12 year mark.
Newer systems are dramatically more efficient and reliable. If you’re looking at expensive repairs on an older system, replacement often just makes more financial sense in the long run.
When to Call the Pros (Seriously!)
I’m totally all for DIY maintenance when you can, but let’s be real – some things absolutely require professional expertise. Here’s when it’s time to pick up the phone instead of picking up your tools.
Electrical Stuff
Anything that involves electrical connections, wiring, or controls should always be left to the pros. HVAC systems use high voltage that can seriously hurt you, and making a mistake can totally damage expensive components. It’s just not worth the risk.
Gas System Problems
Listen up: never, ever mess with gas lines, valves, or combustion parts. If you ever smell gas, shut off the system immediately, air out the area, and call for help right away. Gas leaks are absolutely no joke.
Refrigerant Issues
Handling refrigerant requires special training and certification. Plus, it’s environmentally hazardous if it’s not handled properly. So, definitely leave any refrigerant work to the pros.
Tricky Diagnostics
Modern HVAC systems are pretty complicated. If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting and just can’t figure out what’s wrong, it’s time to call for help. Guessing can often make problems way worse and way more expensive.
Any Safety Concerns
Anytime you’re not feeling comfortable with a task or you’re worried about safety, just call a professional. Your safety is worth so much more than any service call fee.
Picking the Right HVAC Pro for Your Home
Let’s be honest, not all HVAC companies are created equal. So, here’s what to look for when you’re picking a contractor here in Colorado Springs.
Local Experience Matters
You definitely want a company that truly understands Colorado Springs weather and our local building codes. Someone from, say, Phoenix might know HVAC, but they won’t know our unique climate challenges like crazy temperature swings or intense UV.
Accurate Air Control, for example, has been serving Colorado Springs for years. Their technicians really get the altitude effects, UV damage, and wild temperature changes that define our climate. They’re not just fixing systems – they’re solving problems specifically for our area.
Proper Licensing and Insurance (No Exceptions!)
Please, please make sure any contractor you hire is properly licensed and insured. In Colorado, HVAC contractors need specific licenses for the kind of work they do. Do not hire someone who can’t prove they’re legitimate – it’s just too risky.
Fair Pricing (Not Just the Cheapest!)
It’s smart to get a few quotes for any major work, but don’t automatically go with the cheapest option. Super low bids often mean corners will be cut, or you’ll get hit with surprise charges later on.
Good contractors will explain exactly what they’re doing and why. They should always provide written estimates and stand behind their work with solid warranties.
Emergency Service (Because Life Happens)
HVAC emergencies definitely don’t follow business hours. So, pick a company that offers after-hours and weekend service. When your heat suddenly fails on a Sunday night in January, you’ll be so incredibly glad you chose a company with emergency HVAC repair services.
An Ongoing Relationship
Think of your HVAC contractor like a long-term partner for your home, not just someone you call once. A company that knows your system and your home can provide much better service and catch potential problems way earlier.
Budgeting for Your HVAC Needs
Look, HVAC maintenance and repairs are just part of owning a home, right? But major work can definitely put a dent in your budget. Here are some smart ways to manage those costs.
Maintenance Agreements (Smart!)
Lots of companies offer maintenance agreements that help spread the costs out over the year. You pay a small monthly fee and, in return, you get regular tune-ups, priority service if something goes wrong, and often discounts on any repairs.
These agreements usually end up paying for themselves through energy savings and by making your system last longer. Plus, they really help you budget for HVAC costs instead of getting hit with big, surprise expenses.
Financing Options (When You Need a Little Help)
For big repairs or a whole system replacement, many contractors offer financing. This is awesome because it lets you spread out the costs over time instead of having to pay for everything all at once upfront.
Be sure to check out HVAC financing options and payment plans that really fit your budget. Sometimes, manufacturer rebates or utility incentives can even chop down the costs quite a bit!
Energy Efficiency Incentives (Free Money!)
Good news! Colorado Springs Utilities and Xcel Energy often offer rebates for high-efficiency equipment. These programs change pretty regularly, so always check their current offerings before you buy anything.
Federal tax credits are also available for certain high-efficiency systems. Your contractor should totally know about current incentive programs and help you take advantage of them.
The Final Word on HVAC Prep
Living in Colorado Springs means constantly dealing with weather that keeps you on your toes! Your HVAC system is basically your home’s shield against all those crazy temperature extremes, but it really needs regular TLC to do its job reliably.
Seasonal prep isn’t just about avoiding annoying breakdowns – though that’s a huge plus, of course. It’s truly about keeping things efficient, staying super comfy, and having total peace of mind. A well-cared-for system uses less energy, lasts way longer, and keeps your family feeling cozy no matter what Mother Nature decides to throw our way.
The checklist I’ve shared here covers the main stuff, but remember, every home is different. Your system’s age, your family’s specific needs, and your home’s unique quirks might mean you need to give it a little extra attention.
Please don’t try to do everything at once. Just pick a season and start there! Spring is a fantastic time because you’re getting ready for those heavy AC usage months ahead. Fall works perfectly too since you’re prepping for heating season.
The most important thing, truly, is just to start somewhere. Remember that neighbor I mentioned at the very beginning? She now schedules maintenance every spring and fall like clockwork. And guess what? She hasn’t had a single emergency breakdown since that miserable three-day wait for repairs.
You definitely don’t have to become an HVAC expert, but understanding your system and taking some basic care of it will absolutely save you money and frustration down the line. When you do need professional help, make sure to pick a company that really understands Colorado Springs and stands behind their work.
Your HVAC system works incredibly hard to keep you comfortable in our challenging climate. So, give it the care it deserves, and it’ll take care of you through whatever wild weather comes our way.
Remember, if you need professional help with any of these maintenance tasks, the experienced team at Accurate Air Control is just a phone call away at (719) 440-6977. They totally get Colorado Springs weather and have the expertise to keep your system running smoothly all year long.
Stay comfy out there, and don’t let our wild weather catch you unprepared!
