If you live in Panama City, Lynn Haven, or anywhere in Bay County, you know how hot and humid Florida can get. Your HVAC system works hard year-round to keep your home comfortable but without regular maintenance, even the best system can break down when you need it most.

The truth is, while there are a few simple things homeowners can safely do (like replacing filters), most HVAC care should be handled by a licensed technician. Trying to go too far with DIY repairs can actually cause more damage, waste energy, and shorten the lifespan of your system.

That’s why we’ve created this seasonal checklist to show you which light tasks are safe and when it’s time to call the trusted team at Pat Green Heating & Cooling.

Spring & Early Summer (March – June)

Spring is the perfect time to prepare your system before Bay County’s summer heat and humidity arrive.

DIY Safe for Homeowners:

• Air Filters: Check monthly and replace if dirty. A clean filter improves airflow and protects your system.
• Outdoor Condenser Unit: Gently clear away leaves, grass, and debris. Keep two feet of clearance around the unit.
• Thermostat & Batteries: Replace batteries in programmable thermostats and confirm correct settings. 

Call a Pro For:

• Refrigerant Lines: If you notice leaks or damaged insulation, don’t attempt repairs yourself. Our team can safely inspect and fix refrigerant issues.
• Condensate Drain Line: Homeowners may flush with vinegar for minor clogs, but standing water or frequent blockages need professional attention.
• System Test & Tune-Up: If you hear strange noises, feel uneven airflow, or your AC struggles, call us right away. These can be early signs of bigger issues. 

Pro Tip: Schedule your spring maintenance visit now to prevent frozen coils, system strain, and costly breakdowns later in summer. Book Your Service with Pat Green Heating & Cooling.

Late Summer & Fall (July – October)

As summer winds down and we transition to fall, keeping your system efficient is key.

DIY Safe for Homeowners:

• Air Filters: Replace again. Summer pollen and humidity clog filters quickly.
• Vents & Airflow: Make sure vents are open and unblocked to help your system run smoothly. 

Call a Pro For:

• Coil Cleaning: Homeowners should not attempt deep coil cleaning—bending or damaging fins can kill efficiency. Our technicians have the tools and expertise to clean them properly.
• Ductwork Inspection: Leaky or poorly connected ducts often waste energy. We can seal and test them to keep conditioned air where it belongs.
• Outdoor Unit & Fan Blades: If fans don’t spin freely, call us. Forcing them can cause motor damage.
• Heating Mode Test: Heat pumps should switch easily between heating and cooling. If not, schedule a fall inspection before cold weather hits. 

Pro Tip: A professional fall maintenance visit keeps your system reliable, safe, and ready for the cooler nights ahead. Call us at (850) 277-2777 to schedule.

Quick Year-Round Checks

Here are a few light checks you can safely keep up with all year:

• Keep vents open and unobstructed. 
• Monitor indoor humidity (ideal is 45–55%). 
• Keep outdoor units free of weeds and shrubs. 
• Swap filters every 1–2 months, especially if you have pets or allergies. 

Important: If you notice anything unusual (strange sounds, inconsistent cooling, high humidity, or rising energy bills) it’s time to bring in the experts at Pat Green Heating & Cooling.

Protect Your HVAC Investment

A well-maintained HVAC system isn’t just about comfort – it’s about protecting your home, energy bills, and indoor air quality. While filter changes and keeping debris away are safe DIY steps, most HVAC care requires a professional.

That’s where we come in. At Pat Green Heating & Cooling, our certified technicians provide seasonal tune-ups, emergency repairs, and custom solutions tailored for Bay County’s unique climate.

Call us today at (850) 277-2777 or Schedule Your HVAC Maintenance Online to keep your system running efficiently all year long.