Monmouth County’s distinct four seasons each bring unique challenges for your HVAC system. From humid summers at the Jersey Shore to unpredictable winter nor’easters, your heating and cooling equipment needs different care throughout the year. New Jersey Heat & Air has compiled this comprehensive seasonal guide to keep your system running efficiently regardless of what Mother Nature delivers.
Spring HVAC Care (March – May): Awakening Your System
Spring in Monmouth County brings warming temperatures, high pollen counts, and the transition from heating to cooling season.
Early Spring (March):
- Test cooling system on first 70-degree day
- Schedule AC tune-up before the rush
- Clean or replace filters (pollen season starts)
- Clear debris from outdoor unit accumulated over winter
- Check refrigerant lines for winter damage
Towns like Holmdel and Colts Neck see tree pollen peak in April, requiring more frequent filter changes.
Mid to Late Spring (April-May):
- Wash outdoor unit with garden hose
- Trim vegetation 2 feet from unit
- Test thermostat cooling settings
- Clean supply and return vents
- Check condensate drain for clogs
- Program thermostat for cooling season
Spring Energy Tip: Use nice days to air out your home naturally, giving your HVAC system a break while refreshing indoor air.
Summer HVAC Care (June – August): Peak Performance Season
Monmouth County summers test your AC with 80-90°F temperatures and 70% humidity.
Early Summer (June):
- Set thermostat to 78°F when home
- Use ceiling fans for wind-chill effect
- Close blinds during peak sun hours
- Check filter monthly due to heavy use
- Monitor energy bills for unusual increases
Coastal communities like Belmar and Spring Lake should rinse salt from outdoor units monthly.
Mid-Summer (July):
- Ensure condensate drain flows freely
- Listen for unusual sounds
- Check for ice on refrigerant lines
- Keep indoor vents unobstructed
- Consider dehumidifier for basement
Late Summer (August):
- Prepare for hurricane season
- Install surge protectors
- Know how to shut down system safely
- Clear storm drains near HVAC equipment
- Document equipment for insurance
Summer Efficiency Hack: Raise temperature 7-10 degrees when away to save up to 10% on cooling costs.
Fall HVAC Care (September – November): Transition Time
Fall brings the switch from cooling to heating, making it crucial for system preparation.
Early Fall (September):
- Continue AC maintenance
- Begin planning heating service
- Check weatherstripping around doors
- Test heating on first cool morning
- Stock up on filters for heating season
Mid-Fall (October):
- Schedule heating system tune-up
- Test carbon monoxide detectors
- Clean area around furnace
- Reverse ceiling fans clockwise
- Inspect chimney and flue
- Winterize AC unit if applicable
Freehold and Manalapan residents should clear falling leaves from outdoor units regularly.
Late Fall (November):
- Program thermostat for heating season
- Seal air leaks before winter
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Check attic insulation levels
- Clean gutters to prevent ice damage
Fall Money-Saver: Schedule heating maintenance now to avoid emergency service rates during the first cold snap.
Winter HVAC Care (December – February): Reliability When You Need It
Monmouth County winters range from mild to severe, demanding heating system reliability.
Early Winter (December):
- Keep thermostat at consistent temperature
- Change filter monthly during heavy use
- Keep snow/ice clear from outdoor units
- Monitor humidity levels (add humidifier if needed)
- Never close more than 20% of vents
Mid-Winter (January):
- Check for drafts around windows
- Ensure adequate airflow around furnace
- Listen for short cycling
- Monitor gas/oil consumption
- Keep emergency heat supplies ready
Shore towns like Deal and Allenhurst need extra vigilance for frozen condensate lines.
Late Winter (February):
- Plan spring AC maintenance
- Check for winter damage to outdoor unit
- Review heating costs for abnormalities
- Consider system upgrades for next winter
- Clean humidifier if used
Winter Safety Tip: Never use your oven for heating or bring outdoor heaters inside – both create carbon monoxide dangers.
Special Seasonal Considerations
Hurricane Season Preparation (June-November):
- Install whole-house surge protector
- Know location of shut-off switches
- Document system for insurance
- Have tarps ready for emergency covers
- Keep New Jersey Heat & Air contact handy
Beach House Seasonal Care: For properties in Point Pleasant, Sea Girt, or Manasquan:
Opening (Spring):
- Remove winter thermostat settings
- Check for moisture/mold issues
- Test all systems thoroughly
- Clean salt residue from units
Closing (Fall):
- Set minimum heat (55°F)
- Install smart thermostat for monitoring
- Winterize AC components
- Schedule mid-winter check
Monthly Tasks Regardless of Season
Every Month:
- Check/change filters
- Test thermostat operation
- Clear outdoor unit area
- Listen for unusual sounds
- Monitor energy usage
Every 3 Months:
- Clean supply/return vents
- Check thermostat batteries
- Inspect visible ductwork
- Test carbon monoxide detectors
Seasonal Energy Savings by the Numbers
Potential Savings:
- Spring: Save 10% by using natural ventilation
- Summer: Save 15% with proper thermostat settings
- Fall: Save 20% by sealing air leaks
- Winter: Save 10% by lowering temperature 7-10 degrees at night
For average Monmouth County home: Annual savings of $400-600 through seasonal optimization.
Creating Your Seasonal Maintenance Schedule
New Jersey Heat & Air Recommended Timeline:
- March: AC inspection and tune-up
- May: Filter change, system check
- July: Mid-summer filter change
- September: Filter change, heating test
- October: Heating inspection and tune-up
- January: Mid-winter filter change
Weather-Specific Response Plans
Heat Wave Protocol:
- Pre-cool home in morning
- Avoid heat-generating activities
- Close off unused rooms
- Use fans strategically
- Monitor AC performance
Cold Snap Response:
- Open cabinet doors under sinks
- Maintain minimum 55°F
- Let faucets drip slightly
- Know pipe locations
- Have emergency heat source
Year-Round Comfort Assured: Don’t let seasonal changes catch you unprepared. Contact New Jersey Heat & Air Monday-Saturday, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM, to schedule seasonal maintenance. We understand Monmouth County’s unique climate challenges and keep your system ready year-round.