ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As temperatures begin to rise across Western North Carolina, many homeowners are switching their HVAC systems from heat to cool for the first time in months. That seasonal shift is the ideal time to make sure everything is running efficiently before the first stretch of hot weather hits.
To help homeowners prepare, we spoke with Aaron Sperling, general manager of Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air, and a member of the Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, Sperling shares what to look for, what to prioritize and how to avoid costly repairs this spring.
Start with a simple system check
Preparing your HVAC system for spring doesn’t have to be complicated, but a few basic steps can make a big difference.
“Think of it as a spring tune-up for your comfort,” Sperling says. “Start with the basics: change your air filter, clear leaves and debris from around your outdoor unit and make sure your thermostat is working properly.”
Sperling also recommends scheduling a professional inspection early in the season.
“Bring in a pro for a seasonal inspection,” he says. “We’ll catch small issues before they turn into expensive surprises when that first hot day hits.”
Watch for the most common warm weather issues
After months of heavy use during the winter, HVAC systems often show signs of wear as they transition into spring.
“The biggest culprits? Dirty coils, clogged drain lines and neglected filters,” Sperling says.
These issues can lead to reduced airflow, uneven cooling, higher energy bills and even system shutdowns if left unaddressed. The good news is that most of these types of issues can be prevented with regular maintenance.
“Keep filters fresh, make sure your outdoor unit can breathe and don’t skip that annual maintenance,” he says. “A little attention now saves a lot of sweat later.”
Stay on top of your air filter
One of the easiest and most important things homeowners can do is regularly change their air filter.
“A good rule of thumb is every one to three months, but it’s not one-size-fits-all,” Sperling says. “Got pets? Allergies? Running the system nonstop? You’ll want to check it more often, especially during peak seasons.”
Checking your filter regularly and replacing it as needed is a simple step that can improve airflow, support system efficiency and help keep your indoor air cleaner. It can also make a noticeable difference for allergy sufferers, especially in the spring when pollen levels are high. A clean filter helps capture dust, pollen and other airborne irritants before they circulate through your home.
Get ahead of the heat
Before the first hot day hits, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your HVAC system is ready to go. A simple check and a spring tune-up can help prevent delays, avoid unexpected repairs and keep your home comfortable from the start.
Ward Plumbing, Heating & Air has been serving Western North Carolina since 1977, with locations in Asheville, Waynesville and Sylva. Their team offers HVAC maintenance, repair and installation services to keep your home comfortable year-round. Visit WardPH.com to learn more or schedule a spring tune-up, or call (828) 586-WARD to get started.
More help for your home starts here
Looking for more home professionals? The Builders Association of the Blue Ridge Mountains represents more than 1,300 members across Western North Carolina, making it a great place to find vetted experts for everything from HVAC to remodeling. Explore the directory to connect with local pros.
