Seasonal Home Prep Checklist

As the seasons change in Kansas, so do the demands on your home. From hot summers to chilly winters, preparing your house ahead of time can make a big difference in comfort, safety, and efficiency. At Kelley & Dawson, we know how important it is for homeowners to stay ahead of seasonal shifts. That’s why we’ve created this Seasonal Home Prep Checklist—a simple guide to help you protect your home and keep your HVAC system running at its best.

Why Seasonal Prep Is Essential

Every season brings unique challenges for your home. High summer heat pushes your air conditioner to the limit, while cold winter nights put strain on your heating system. Without preparation, you may experience:

• Unexpected breakdowns when your system is working hardest
  
  
• Higher utility bills due to inefficiency
  
  
• Safety hazards from overlooked equipment
  
  
• Reduced comfort inside your home
  
  

By following a seasonal checklist, you can prevent problems, save money, and enjoy peace of mind year-round.

Spring Prep: Get Ready for Cooling Season

Spring is the perfect time to transition your home and HVAC system from heating to cooling.

• Schedule an AC Tune-Up – Professional maintenance ensures your system is clean, efficient, and ready to tackle summer heat.
  
  
• Replace Air Filters – A fresh filter improves airflow and reduces strain on your unit.
  
  
• Check Outdoor Units – Clear away leaves, branches, or debris around your AC condenser.
  
  
• Test Your Thermostat – Switch to cooling mode and confirm the system responds properly.
  
  
• Inspect Ductwork – Leaks or blockages can drive up cooling costs.
  
  

At Kelley & Dawson, our spring tune-ups catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs when you need cooling most.

Summer Prep: Stay Cool and Save Energy

Summers in Kansas are hot and humid, which makes energy efficiency even more important.

• Use Ceiling Fans – They improve airflow and help you feel cooler at higher thermostat settings.
  
  
• Keep Blinds Closed – Block out direct sunlight to reduce indoor heat gain.
  
  
• Seal Windows and Doors – Prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.
  
  
• Inspect Insulation – Proper insulation keeps your home cooler and reduces AC run times.
  
  
• Set Smart Thermostat Schedules – Program energy-saving settings when you’re away from home.
  
  

Even small steps can make a noticeable difference in your monthly energy bills.

Fall Prep: Prepare for Heating Season

As temperatures drop, it’s time to get your heating system ready for steady use.

• Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up – Have a professional clean burners, test safety controls, and inspect the heat exchanger.
  
  
• Replace Filters – Keep air flowing freely through your heating system.
  
  
• Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Ensure they’re working properly for safety.
  
  
• Seal Air Leaks – Cold drafts from windows and doors can increase heating costs.
  
  
• Test Thermostat Settings – Confirm your furnace cycles on and off properly.
  
  

Routine fall service with Kelley & Dawson not only improves efficiency but also ensures your family’s safety.

Winter Prep: Keep Warm and Safe

Winter is tough on homes, especially during cold snaps. Make sure you’re prepared by tackling these steps:

• Keep Vents Clear – Ensure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking airflow.
  
  
• Protect Outdoor Units – Clear snow and ice from heat pumps to prevent damage.
  
  
• Check for Drafts – Add weatherstripping or caulking where cold air enters.
  
  
• Reverse Ceiling Fans – Run them clockwise on low to push warm air downward.
  
  
• Monitor Energy Bills – Sudden spikes can signal heating system issues.
  
  

Being proactive reduces the risk of mid-season breakdowns when service demand is highest.

Year-Round Home Maintenance Tips

Beyond seasonal changes, these year-round habits will help keep your home efficient and comfortable:

• Replace filters every 1–3 months
  
  
• Keep HVAC registers open and unblocked
  
  
• Trim shrubs and plants away from outdoor units
  
  
• Schedule annual HVAC maintenance—spring for cooling, fall for heating
  
  
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
  
  

A little consistency goes a long way in preventing costly problems.

FAQs About Seasonal Prep

1. How often should HVAC systems be serviced?
At least twice a year—once in spring and once in fall for optimal performance.

2. What’s the most common issue homeowners face when skipping seasonal prep?
Dirty filters and clogged coils, which reduce efficiency and cause higher energy bills.

3. How do I know if my insulation is sufficient?
If you notice uneven temperatures or high bills, an insulation inspection may be needed.

4. Can I do HVAC maintenance myself?
Homeowners can change filters and clear debris, but professional inspections are essential for safety and efficiency.

5. Why schedule service before peak season?
Booking early ensures availability and prevents being caught without heating or cooling when demand is high.

Your Trusted Wichita HVAC Experts

Keeping your home safe and comfortable year-round starts with preparation—and no one knows seasonal HVAC care better than Kelley & Dawson. With nearly 60 years of service in Wichita and over 100 years of combined team experience, we’re here to make sure your system is reliable, efficient, and ready for every season.

Call (316) 263-7201 today to schedule your seasonal HVAC maintenance with Kelley & Dawson and enjoy peace of mind no matter what the Kansas weather brings.