Maintenance & Longevity: Mike’s Yearly Routine to Keep His System Running Like New

For most homeowners, HVAC maintenance is one of those “I’ll get to it later” chores.
But for Mike Sanders, a homeowner in upstate New York who installed a Goodman 2 Ton 14 SEER2 Air Conditioner and 96% AFUE Gas Furnace, it’s part of his yearly rhythm — just like changing the oil in his truck or cleaning out the gutters.

💬 “A little time every season saves me hundreds of dollars and keeps my Goodman running smooth,” Mike says. “It’s the difference between my system lasting 10 years and lasting 20.”

This guide walks through Mike’s real-world maintenance routine — the exact steps he follows each spring, summer, fall, and winter to keep his system efficient, quiet, and reliable.

Whether you’re a hands-on homeowner like Mike or just want to make sure your HVAC tech is doing things right, these tips will help you extend your system’s lifespan, preserve your warranty, and reduce your energy costs year after year.

---

🏠 1️⃣ Why Routine Maintenance Matters More Than You Think

When Mike first bought his Goodman dual-fuel system, his installer told him something that stuck:

“The equipment is 50% of your comfort. The other 50% is how you maintain it.”

And it’s true. Even the most efficient furnace and air conditioner can lose up to 20–30% of performance over time without regular care.

💡 Regular maintenance:

• Keeps the 96% AFUE furnace running near peak efficiency.

• Prevents dust buildup on the 14 SEER2 condenser coil, preserving airflow.

• Extends system lifespan (often from 12 to 20 years).

• Protects your 10-year parts warranty from voiding.

📘 Source: Energy.gov – HVAC Maintenance Benefits

“You don’t skip oil changes in your car,” Mike says. “Why skip maintenance on the system that runs every single day?”

---

🗓️ 2️⃣ Mike’s Seasonal Routine at a Glance

Mike breaks his HVAC care into four seasonal checklists — each one designed to catch issues before they grow into expensive repairs.

Let’s go step by step through his yearly process.

---

🌸 3️⃣ Spring: Waking the System Back Up

After the long Northeast winter, Mike’s first goal is to prepare the cooling side of his Goodman system.

He picks a mild April weekend, opens the basement utility door, and starts his checklist.

🧽 Step 1: Clean the Outdoor Condenser

• Remove leaves, dirt, or debris around the GLXS3BN2410 condenser.

• Spray down the coil fins with a non-corrosive coil cleaner.

• Rinse gently with a hose (no high pressure).

• Check that the fan blades move freely.

📘 Reference: Energy.gov – Cleaning Condenser Coils

“I spend maybe 20 minutes on this,” Mike says. “It’s the easiest way to keep my AC efficient all summer.”

🧰 Step 2: Inspect Refrigerant Line Insulation

• Look for cracks or UV damage on the foam insulation.

• Replace if needed to prevent energy loss.

🧺 Step 3: Replace Air Filter

Goodman systems work best with MERV 8–10 filters — they balance filtration and airflow.
Mike replaces his filter every 2–3 months year-round, but spring is when he swaps for a fresh one before cooling season begins.

⚙️ Step 4: Test Cooling Mode

• Set thermostat to “Cool.”

• Listen for the outdoor unit to start up.

• Check that the indoor air feels cool within 10–15 minutes.

If not, it’s time for a technician to verify refrigerant pressure.

---

☀️ 4️⃣ Summer: Keeping Airflow Smooth and Moisture Controlled

By mid-summer, the Goodman air conditioner is working hard to keep the house comfortable.
This is when airflow and drainage matter most.

🌀 Step 1: Check Airflow

• Walk around the house and make sure vents are open and unobstructed.

• Vacuum dust buildup from registers.

💧 Step 2: Clear the Condensate Drain Line

Moisture from cooling collects in a drain pan and flows out through a small PVC pipe. If it clogs, water can back up and shut down the system.

Mike’s method:

1. Disconnect the PVC drain line.

2. Attach a wet/dry vacuum to the line for 30 seconds.

3. Pour a cup of vinegar through to prevent algae growth.

📘 Reference: HVAC.com – How to Clean Your Drain Line

🌳 Step 3: Maintain Outdoor Clearance

Ensure 18–24 inches of space around the condenser. Trim shrubs or grass that block airflow.

“A few branches leaning against the unit can make it overheat,” Mike notes. “It’s simple, but it matters.”

🪣 Step 4: Mid-Season Filter Change

Even in summer, dust builds up fast — especially if you have pets or live near trees. Mike swaps filters every 60 days without fail.

---

🍂 5️⃣ Fall: Prepping for the Heating Season

As leaves fall and temperatures drop, it’s time to shift focus to the Goodman GR9S960803BN 96% AFUE gas furnace — the workhorse for Northeast winters.

Mike calls this his “big tune-up season.”

🔥 Step 1: Schedule Professional Service

Even though Mike handles most maintenance himself, he always hires a certified HVAC pro in October to:

• Check gas pressure and ignition sequence.

• Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks.

• Clean the burners and flame sensor.

• Test carbon monoxide output.

• Confirm proper PVC vent slope and drainage.

Cost: ~$150–$200

📘 Reference: EnergyStar – Furnace Maintenance Checklist

🧼 Step 2: Replace Air Filter

Always start heating season with a clean filter.
Dirty filters can reduce airflow, cause overheating, and trigger system shutdowns.

🧯 Step 3: Test Safety Devices

• Press the CO detector test button.

• Replace batteries if needed.

• Confirm thermostat switches properly between “Heat” and “Cool.”

“I don’t mess with gas or CO safety. I check every detector before I even light the first fire in my wood stove,” Mike adds.

---

❄️ 6️⃣ Winter: Monitoring and Mid-Season Tune-Ups

Winter is when the furnace earns its keep.
The Goodman 96% AFUE furnace handles the cold easily, but Mike stays proactive.

🧊 Step 1: Keep Vent Pipes Clear

Snow or ice blocking furnace intake/exhaust pipes can cause shutdowns. After each storm:

• Inspect PVC pipes outside for snow buildup.

• Clear away drifts with a broom — never with hot water.

• Check that condensate drains freely.

📘 Reference: Energy.gov – Furnace Safety and Venting

🔄 Step 2: Change Filter Mid-Season

Winter heating pushes lots of air through ducts — especially in the Northeast.
Mike swaps filters every 6–8 weeks to maintain steady airflow.

🔊 Step 3: Listen for Unusual Noises

• Rattles may indicate a loose panel.

• Whistling often means duct leaks or clogged filters.

• Banging on startup could signal delayed ignition — call a tech immediately.

💡 Step 4: Run System Fan Periodically

Running the fan occasionally helps circulate air evenly and maintain indoor humidity.

“Even when it’s 10° outside, I’ll set the fan to run 15 minutes every hour. It keeps the heat balanced and my hardwood floors from drying out.”

---

🧱 7️⃣ Ductwork: The Hidden Key to Longevity

Even the most efficient furnace can’t perform well with leaky or dirty ducts.
Mike inspects his ductwork every fall — it’s one of the simplest yet most overlooked maintenance steps.

🔍 Duct Care Checklist:

• Look for gaps or loose tape at joints.

• Seal leaks with mastic or foil-backed tape (never duct tape).

• Add insulation to exposed ducts in basements or crawl spaces.

• Check for airflow blockages at registers.

📘 Reference: EnergyStar – Duct Sealing

Properly sealed ducts can improve system efficiency by 20% — reducing both energy waste and strain on components.

---

🧯 8️⃣ Safety Checks Mike Never Skips

📘 Reference: NFPA – Home Heating Safety

“Peace of mind is worth a few minutes of checking,” Mike says. “I’d rather catch something small than have an emergency in January.”

---

⚙️ 9️⃣ Filters: The Simplest Lifesaver

Mike calls filter changes the “cheapest insurance policy” for HVAC systems.

🧾 His Filter Rules:

• Use MERV 8–10 pleated filters — good balance of air quality and airflow.

• Replace every 60–90 days, or monthly in peak season.

• Write the date on each new filter.

• Keep a 6-pack in the garage to avoid forgetting.

📘 Reference: Goodman Maintenance Tips

A clogged filter can increase system strain by 15–20% and cut efficiency dramatically.

“Every time I replace a filter, I picture it saving me gas money — because it does.”

---

💧 🔟 Drainage & Humidity Control

Goodman systems generate condensate during both heating and cooling seasons.
Mike learned early on that keeping drain lines clear prevents corrosion and costly repairs.

• Clean the condensate trap with vinegar or peroxide.

• Inspect the PVC line slope (must be downward flow).

• Keep drain tubing away from freezing temperatures.

He also uses a smart thermostat humidity sensor to monitor indoor moisture — keeping it between 35–45% for comfort and efficiency.

📘 Reference: ENERGY STAR – Smart Thermostat Guide.

---

🧰 11️⃣ Mike’s Maintenance Toolkit

Mike keeps all his HVAC tools in a single plastic toolbox labeled “Goodman Care Kit.”

“Nothing fancy — just the basics. I’d rather spend $100 once than $300 on a preventable service call.”

---

🧠 12️⃣ Common Mistakes That Shorten System Life

Mike has seen friends make these avoidable errors — and he avoids them at all costs:

1. Neglecting filters → leads to restricted airflow and overheating.

2. Blocking return vents → causes uneven temperatures and strain.

3. Skipping tune-ups → small issues become big repairs.

4. Using high-MERV filters → too restrictive for standard blowers.

5. Letting snow bury outdoor units → traps moisture and damages coils.

Each mistake can cost anywhere from $200–$1,500 in repairs or reduce lifespan by several years.

---

🔋 13️⃣ Professional Tune-Ups: Partnering With a Pro

Even the most diligent DIY homeowner needs a technician’s touch once or twice a year.

What HVAC pros check:

• Combustion analysis (CO safety)

• Gas pressure calibration

• Refrigerant charge

• Blower motor amperage

• Duct static pressure

• Igniter and flame sensor condition

Mike schedules one visit in October (furnace) and another in April (AC).
Cost: Around $350 per year for both.

“I handle the cleaning — they handle the diagnostics. It’s a perfect combo.”

📘 Reference: Goodman Warranty Maintenance Requirements

---

🧾 14️⃣ Warranty & Record Keeping

Goodman’s 10-Year Parts Warranty is one of the strongest in the industry — but it requires documentation.

To stay covered:

• Register your product within 60 days of installation.

• Keep proof of annual maintenance visits.

• Use only Goodman-approved parts.

Mike keeps a binder with:

• Copies of invoices

• Tune-up checklists

• Warranty certificate

• Filter replacement log

“It takes 10 minutes to file paperwork. That 10 years of protection is worth it.”

---

🌿 15️⃣ Efficiency & Environmental Payoffs

Routine maintenance doesn’t just protect your system — it protects your wallet and the planet.

📘 Reference: EPA – Energy Efficiency Benefits.

---

📆 16️⃣ The 12-Month “Goodman Care” Calendar

Mike’s yearly breakdown looks like this:

“If it’s on the calendar, it gets done — that’s how my Goodman keeps running like new,” says Mike.

---

🧭 17️⃣ The Payoff: Long Life, Quiet Comfort, and Lower Bills

After four years of consistent care, Mike’s Goodman 2 Ton system still performs exactly like day one.

• Energy savings: ~20% less gas and electricity per year.

• No repairs: Only standard tune-ups and filters.

• Noise level: Virtually silent operation.

• Peace of mind: Zero mid-winter breakdowns.

“It’s not magic — just maintenance,” Mike laughs. “Goodman made it simple. I just stick to the plan.”

---

🧩 18️⃣ The Bottom Line: Consistency Wins

A Goodman HVAC system is built to last — but longevity isn’t automatic. It’s earned through small, regular actions that compound over time.

Mike’s story proves that DIY-friendly maintenance, paired with yearly professional care, can stretch a 10-year system into a 20-year investment.

So whether you’re in the Northeast or anywhere with heavy heating seasons, take a page from Mike’s notebook:

• Keep filters fresh.

• Check airflow.

• Stay on schedule.

• Call a pro once a year.

You’ll enjoy better comfort, lower bills, and the satisfaction of knowing your Goodman system will keep you warm every winter and cool every summer — year after year.

In the next topic we will know more about: Smart Controls & Thermostat Pairing: How Mike Automated His Heating and Cooling