When I installed my Goodman 4 Ton 13.5 SEER2 air conditioner and 100,000 BTU gas furnace, one thing my contractor stressed was:
👉 “The system will only last as long as you maintain it.”
And he was right. Regular maintenance doesn’t just keep your Goodman system running—it saves money, prevents breakdowns, and makes sure your warranty stays valid.
In this guide, I’ll share my season-by-season checklist that I use in my own Northeast home. Whether you’re handy or prefer calling a pro, these steps will help you keep your Goodman system running strong all year.
🧩 Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters
Here’s what I learned:
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Efficiency drops without care → Dirty filters, clogged coils, and dusty burners force your system to work harder.
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Repairs are more expensive than prevention → A $10 filter swap can save you from a $1,000 compressor or blower motor failure.
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Comfort depends on airflow → Neglecting duct cleaning or vent checks can cause uneven heating/cooling.
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Warranties require proof of upkeep → Goodman (like most manufacturers) expects homeowners to follow a maintenance schedule
📌 According to Energy Star, regular maintenance can cut HVAC energy use by up to 15%
🌸 Spring: Prepping Your Goodman AC
Before the first hot day hits, spring is the time to get your AC ready.
✅ DIY Tasks
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Replace or clean air filters (every 1–3 months depending on usage).
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Check thermostat settings to ensure it cools properly.
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Clean condenser coils → Use a garden hose (gentle spray) to wash away dirt and pollen.
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Clear debris around outdoor condenser → Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance for airflow.
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Inspect refrigerant lines → Look for cracks in insulation.
🔧 Professional Tasks
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Check refrigerant levels and recharge if needed.
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Inspect electrical connections and capacitors.
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Clean and lubricate the blower motor.
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Test cooling cycle and measure airflow.
📌 According to ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), professional AC tune-ups should be done once per year in spring
☀️ Summer: Mid-Season AC Care
Once summer is in full swing, maintenance is about keeping performance steady.
✅ DIY Tasks
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Check filters monthly → Replace if dusty.
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Inspect condensate drain line → Prevent clogs that can cause water leaks.
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Listen for unusual noises → Grinding or rattling could mean loose parts.
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Monitor humidity levels → High humidity indoors may mean the AC isn’t dehumidifying properly.
🔧 Professional Tasks (Optional Mid-Summer Checkup)
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Coil cleaning if performance drops.
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Airflow test to ensure ducts aren’t leaking.
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Thermostat calibration.
📌 The DOE notes that clogged condensate drains can cause humidity issues and even water damage
🍂 Fall: Getting the Furnace Ready
As temps cool, it’s time to shift attention from AC to heating.
✅ DIY Tasks
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Change the air filter before heating season starts.
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Inspect vents and registers → Make sure nothing is blocked by furniture or rugs.
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Check flue/venting → Clear leaves, bird nests, or blockages in exterior vents.
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Test carbon monoxide detectors → Replace batteries if needed.
🔧 Professional Tasks
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Inspect ignition system and burners.
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Perform combustion analysis for safety.
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Check gas pressure and adjust if necessary.
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Clean blower assembly.
📌 According to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), all fuel-burning furnaces should be inspected annually for safety
❄️ Winter: Furnace In-Season Tips
Once heating season is underway, small habits keep your system efficient.
✅ DIY Tasks
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Replace filters every 1–2 months.
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Keep furnace area clear → Maintain 3 feet of clearance around the unit.
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Watch for short cycling → If the furnace turns on/off too quickly, it may need adjustment.
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Check vents outside → Snow and ice can block intake or exhaust pipes.
🔧 Professional Tasks (Mid-Winter if Issues Arise)
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Diagnose strange odors or noises.
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Check for heat exchanger cracks (serious safety risk).
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Inspect ductwork for leaks.
📌 The CDC warns that blocked furnace vents can cause carbon monoxide buildup—a serious health hazard
🧑🔧 Professional Maintenance: What Only the Pros Should Do
Some things are better left to licensed technicians:
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Refrigerant handling → Requires EPA certification.
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Gas line connections and combustion testing.
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Electrical diagnostics (high-voltage testing).
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Annual safety inspections.
👉 Even if you’re a DIY type, schedule one pro tune-up per year—spring for AC, fall for furnace.
📊 Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
Here’s the cheat sheet I keep on my fridge:
| Season | Homeowner Tasks | Professional Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Change filters, clean coils, clear debris, check refrigerant insulation | AC tune-up, refrigerant check, electrical inspection |
| Summer | Monthly filter checks, clear condensate line, listen for noises | Optional mid-season airflow check |
| Fall | Replace filters, inspect vents, test CO detectors | Furnace tune-up, burner/ignition inspection |
| Winter | Replace filters monthly, keep vents clear, check for short cycling | Safety inspection, heat exchanger check if issues |
📝 Samantha’s Takeaway
When I started, seasonal maintenance felt overwhelming. But once I broke it into spring, summer, fall, and winter routines, it became second nature.
Here’s what I’ve noticed since sticking to it:
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My utility bills are 15–20% lower.
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My Goodman system runs quieter and cycles less often.
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I feel safer knowing my furnace is checked for carbon monoxide leaks.
👉 My advice: do the easy DIY steps yourself, and budget for two pro visits a year. It’s the best way to protect your investment and keep your Goodman system running for 15+ years.
✅ Final Word
Your Goodman system is built to last, but only if you treat it right.
Think of seasonal maintenance as routine oil changes for your home comfort system. Skip it, and you’ll pay more in breakdowns and higher bills. Stay on top of it, and you’ll enjoy reliable heating and cooling for years to come.
In the next topic we will know more about: Will a Goodman 4 Ton Condenser + 100k Furnace Fit Your Utility Space?
