Simple HVAC Maintenance Tips That Save You Money

Your HVAC system is one of the most important — and expensive — systems in your home. Whether it’s keeping you cool in the Texas summer or warm in the winter, proper HVAC maintenance helps your air conditioning system and heating and cooling equipment run efficiently year-round. Small steps can make a big difference in reducing energy bills, extending equipment life, and keeping your home comfortable.

At Wright’s AC & Heat, we’ve helped Wimberley homeowners stay comfortable and save money since 1992. Here’s how you can do the same with simple, practical maintenance tips.

1. Change or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly

Air filters are the first line of defense for your air conditioning system. They trap dust, pollen, and debris before it enters your home’s air systems. When filters get dirty or clogged, your HVAC system has to work harder to push air through, which increases your energy bills and reduces indoor air quality.

For most homes, filters should be replaced every 1–3 months. If you have pets or allergies, monthly replacement is best. Clean air filters keep your system efficient, protect your evaporator coil from buildup, and ensure you’re breathing cleaner air.

2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

Your outdoor unit (the condenser) plays a key role in removing heat from your home. Over time, leaves, dirt, and grass can block airflow around the unit, forcing it to work harder and reducing its efficiency.

Make sure there’s at least two feet of clear space around the outdoor unit. Trim bushes and remove debris regularly. A quick rinse with a garden hose can also help remove dust from the coils — just be gentle and avoid bending the fins. This simple step keeps your central air conditioning system performing at its best.

3. Inspect the Evaporator Coil and Air Handler

Inside your home, the air handler and evaporator coil are essential components that move and cool air through your ducts. Over time, the evaporator coil can accumulate dust and moisture, reducing heat transfer efficiency and even causing coils to freeze.

During a professional maintenance visit, your technician will clean these components and check for any issues that could affect performance. Keeping your coils and air handler clean improves airflow, reduces energy use, and helps your central air conditioner deliver consistent cool air throughout the home.

4. Check Your Thermostat Settings

An improperly set or outdated thermostat can waste energy without you even realizing it. For most homes, setting your thermostat to around 78°F in summer and 68°F in winter provides the best balance between comfort and savings.

If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat or thermidistat, which can automatically adjust settings for optimal efficiency. These systems improve your heating and cooling management and help reduce operational costs without sacrificing comfort.

5. Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system doesn’t just heat or cool the air — it circulates it throughout your entire home. Dust, allergens, and humidity can all affect both your comfort and your system’s performance.

To maintain high indoor air quality, consider adding UV lights or air purification systems that work with your existing air conditioning units. These help eliminate mold, bacteria, and odors while keeping your system cleaner. Clean ducts and properly sealed air systems also prevent contaminants from circulating indoors.

6. Keep an Eye on Utility Bills

A sudden spike in energy bills is often a sign that your HVAC system isn’t running efficiently. Common causes include dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, or worn components. By keeping a record of your monthly utility costs, you can catch problems early and schedule maintenance before they turn into costly repairs.

High-efficiency systems are designed to keep operational costs low, but even the best units still require regular maintenance. Routine tune-ups help identify and fix minor issues that can silently waste energy.

7. Don’t Forget About Mini Splits and Indoor Units

If you use mini-splits or ductless systems in certain rooms, they require maintenance as well. Clean or replace their small air filters regularly and ensure that the indoor units are not blocked by furniture or curtains.

Dirt buildup on indoor evaporator coils can restrict airflow, making it harder to heat or cool rooms effectively. Keeping your mini splits clean not only extends their lifespan but also ensures consistent performance throughout your home.

8. Schedule Seasonal Tune-Ups

Just like a car needs regular oil changes, your heating and cooling system needs professional servicing at least twice a year — once before summer and once before winter. During a tune-up, an HVAC technician will:

• Check refrigerant levels

• Clean coils and drain lines

• Lubricate moving parts

• Test thermostat calibration

• Inspect heat exchangers and safety controls

• Evaluate your Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) performance

These preventive services keep your conditioning system running smoothly, reduce breakdowns, and protect your investment.

9. Seal and Insulate Air Ducts

Leaky air ducts can cause significant energy loss. When conditioned air escapes before reaching your vents, your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. That means higher utility bills and uneven cooling.

A professional inspection can identify leaks in your ductwork. Sealing these gaps and adding insulation helps ensure your air conditioning system delivers cool or warm air efficiently, keeping your home comfortable year-round.

10. Protect the System During the Off-Season

When your AC or heating system isn’t in use, take a few precautions to protect it. Cover the outdoor unit during the off-season to prevent debris buildup, but allow airflow to prevent moisture accumulation.

Inside, switch off the power to your furnace or air handler if it won’t be used for an extended period. These small steps can prevent corrosion, dust buildup, and electrical issues that lead to costly repairs.

The Value of Professional Maintenance

While there’s plenty you can do as a homeowner, professional HVAC maintenance ensures every part of your air conditioning system and heating and cooling setup is inspected, cleaned, and tuned for maximum efficiency.

At Wright’s AC & Heat, we provide detailed maintenance services designed to extend the life of your system and minimize unexpected breakdowns. Our experts check every component — from heat exchangers to air filters — so your central air conditioner continues running safely and efficiently.

Choose Wright’s AC for HVAC Maintenance, Wimberley

Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is one of the smartest investments you can make. Regular tune-ups, clean filters, and a bit of attention to your air systems can lead to:

• Lower energy bills

• Fewer repairs

• Better indoor air quality

• A longer system lifespan

Whether you rely on central air conditioning, mini splits, or a heating and cooling system, proactive care keeps your home comfortable and your utility bills under control.

Ready to save money and stay cool all year long? Call Wright’s AC & Heat at +1 512-847-3191 to schedule your next HVAC maintenance appointment — serving Wimberley and surrounding areas with trusted local expertise since 1992.