Real talk, managing a property is no small job. Between juggling your tenants needs, handling repairs, and keeping everything running smoothly, your to-do list probably never ends. And HVAC systems? They’re one of those things that don’t usually get attention… until something breaks. And it’s usually at the worst time, like a 95-degree afternoon or the first freezing night of winter!
Well this guide is for you, the hardworking property manager who wants to avoid surprise repairs, keep energy bills in check, and make sure tenants stay comfy year-round. We’ll walk through some easy DIY heating and air conditioning maintenance you can do (or have your maintenance crew handle), plus when it’s best to call a local pro like us at Temperature Solutions, your go-to team for heating and air conditioning Petaluma.
Why HVAC Maintenance Should Be on Your Radar
If you think about your HVAC system like a car, it seems kind of ridiculous not to get more regular service. I mean, you wouldn’t drive it for 10 years without an oil change, right? Same goes for an HVAC system. Regular maintenance helps your system:
- Last longer
- Run more efficiently
- Keep indoor air cleaner
- Avoid surprise breakdowns
- Make tenants happier (and less likely to move!)
Bottom line: a little attention now can save you a ton of money and headaches later.
What You Can (and Should) Do Yourself
DIY is many a property manager’s forte, and the good news about maintaining your HVAC is that not everything requires a pro. There are a few simple things you or your team can stay on top of that’ll make a big difference.
Here’s what we recommend:
Change the Filters (Seriously, Just Do It)
This is the easiest win. Dirty filters mean your system has to work harder, which drives up your energy bills and shortens its life. Try to swap them out every 2–3 months. If you’ve got lots of tenants or live in a dusty area, make it monthly.
Clear Out Around the Outdoor Unit
Your A/C condenser unit (the big metal box outside) needs breathing room. Trim back bushes, clear leaves, and don’t let junk pile up around it. Aim for at least two feet of space on all sides.
Don’t Let Vents Get Blocked
Walk through units during inspections and make sure vents aren’t covered by rugs, furniture, or who-knows-what. Blocked vents can throw off airflow and mess with the whole system.
Check the Thermostat
Make sure the thermostat’s working right and not stuck on outdated settings. If you’ve got common areas or vacant units, use a programmable thermostat to save energy when no one’s around.
Listen for Weird Noises
Rattling, buzzing, or clunking sounds? Those aren’t normal. Pay attention if tenants mention anything funky, or check it out yourself on your next walk-through.
Okay, Now Here’s When You Should Call a Pro
And yet… even the best DIY-er has their limits, and HVAC systems can get complicated fast. Unsure where to draw the line? Don’t risk breaking your system with amateur fixes!
Here are some signs it’s time to call in the experts (hey, that’s us!):
- Units blowing warm air instead of cool (or vice versa)
- Strange smells coming from vents
- Hot and cold spots throughout the unit
- Leaks or moisture near equipment
- Sky-high energy bills with no clear reason
- Systems that keep turning on and off (called short cycling)
When you hit any of these issues, it’s not worth guessing. Call someone who can spot the real problem and fix it right, the first time.
Why Property Managers Like You Trust Temperature Solutions
Here at Temperature Solutions, we’re not some mega-corporation with cookie-cutter service. We’re a local Petaluma company, and we treat every building like it’s our own. That means:
- Fast, friendly service, no runarounds, no gimmicks
- Custom maintenance plans to fit your building’s needs and budget
- Straight answers, we’ll tell you what your system really needs (and what it doesn’t)
- Indoor air quality help, because your tenants deserve to breathe easy
We work with property managers all over Sonoma County to keep things running smoothly, avoid big issues, and keep tenants comfortable all year long.
Want to Stay Organized? Here’s How to Build an Easy Maintenance Schedule
We know managing multiple units can get messy fast. Here’s how to keep your HVAC plan simple:
Set a Calendar Reminder
Use Google Calendar or a property management app to remind yourself or your maintenance team to check filters, do a quick system look-over, and schedule pro tune-ups twice a year (spring and fall are best).
Educate Your Tenants
A quick handout at move-in explaining how to use the thermostat, what to look out for, and who to call can help you avoid unnecessary calls or bigger issues.
Track Your Maintenance
Keep a log of filter changes, inspections, and any repairs. It’ll help with budgeting, warranties, and catching patterns before they become problems.
Have a Trusted Pro on Speed Dial
Spoiler alert: that’s us. Whether something’s acting up or it’s just time for a seasonal check, we’re here to help.
Let’s Make Your Job Easier
You’ve got enough to deal with. Let us help you check HVAC off the worry list. With a few small tasks on your end, and a reliable partner for the big stuff, you can avoid emergencies, keep tenants happy, and maybe even save a little money while you’re at it.
If you manage a property in or around Petaluma, contact us online now or give us a call at (707) 329-3736. Temperature Solutions has your back when it comes to heating and air conditioning in Petaluma. We’re local, we’re friendly, and we know our stuff.
Don’t Do This Alone – Call Temperature Solutions
Property management is a tough job. But when it comes to HVAC, you don’t have to go it alone. We’ll handle the technical side, keep you informed, and help you avoid costly surprises. Let’s team up to keep your properties running smoothly and your tenants smiling.