End Of Winter Checklist For Virginia Homeowners (2026)
Spring is on the way, and now that we are starting to see some warm weather here and there, it’s about time to get your home ready for the next season. There are some tasks you can perform yourself, and some you can hire a professional for, that will make your home more comfortable and safe in the Spring and Summer.
Complete Comfort is an HVAC company that specializes in heating, air conditioning, and backup power as well. We have been working in Southwest Virginia since 2011, and have been helping homeowners prepare for any weather, in any season. Some of these tasks in this article are meant to help your home comfort, while others are going to help you save money.
If you need some immediate help with your HVAC system or generator, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our team can answer any questions you may have, and schedule an appointment for your home.
DIY End Of Winter Tasks
First, we’ll go over some DIY (do-it-yourself) tasks you can complete on your own. Now, if you feel unsure about some of these, either watch a YouTube video or hire a professional to give you a hand.
Change Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system has likely been working hard all winter long. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, lower efficiency, and make your system work harder than it should. Changing it is as simple as removing the old filter, and replacing it with a fresh one.
If you are wondering how to change your air filter, you can consult your HVAC system’s manual, watch a video on YouTube, or ask your technician during a routine maintenance. You can also read this article: How To Change You Air Filter
Most homes should change their air filter every 1-3 months, depending on pets, allergies, and usage. Heading into spring with a fresh filter will keep the air fresh, and help your AC system run smoothly once it’s needed.
Clean Gutters
Winter storms, wind, and fallen debris can clog your gutters. When spring rains arrive, clogged gutters can cause:
- Water damage to siding
- Foundation issues
- Basement moisture problems
- Landscape erosion
Take the time to remove leaves and debris, and ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home. This may seem like a simple cliche task, but there’s a reason that it’s important. This can prevent major water damage, and help your home stay dry!
Bonus Tip: Make sure no sticks or debris are in your outdoor HVAC condenser. You can have these cleaned out during a routine maintenance, but this is something you can manage on your own as well!
Seal Windows And Doors
Cold winter temperatures can cause small gaps around windows and doors to expand. Even tiny cracks allow air to escape, making your HVAC system work harder. Go around the house and check your windows and doors. Here are some things you should look out for:
- Cracked caulking
- Worn weather stripping
- Drafts around frames
Sealing these gaps helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and improves energy efficiency as we head into warmer weather.
Swapping Storage Items
As winter wraps up, it’s time to store snow shovels, winter hats and gloves, and bring out your spring and summer essentials. Check your outdoor furniture that’s been stored all winter and make sure it’s clean and ready for the warm weather. Bring out your spring/summer clothing and stow away those winter jackets.
Change Ceiling Fans
Many homeowners forget this simple trick: reverse your ceiling fan direction.
- In winter, fans typically rotate clockwise to push warm air down.
- In spring and summer, they should rotate counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
This is a small adjustment, but one that improves home comfort while also taking some of the strain off of your heating and cooling systems.
Professional End Of Winter Tasks
Some tasks are best left to trained professionals. These services can prevent breakdowns, improve safety, and save you money long term.
Schedule HVAC Service
The number one thing we recommend you do to get the most out of your HVAC system is to schedule routine maintenance. Spring is the perfect time to schedule air conditioning maintenance before the heat makes its way in.
Routine HVAC service will:
- Improve energy efficiency
- Extend your system’s lifespan
- Ensure safe operation
- Lower energy bills
- Validate your HVAC system’s warranty
- Help avoid breakdowns and repairs being needed
- Improve your comfort
In Southwest Virginia, summers can get hot and humid quickly. Scheduling service before the summer helps prepare you for the heat, rather than reacting to a broken system during the middle of the season. We recommend you have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year, preferably before the summer/winter.
Repair Any Cracks In Your Siding Or Walkways
Winter freeze-and-thaw cycles can cause cracks in siding, sidewalks, and driveways. While small cracks may seem harmless, they can worsen quickly.
If you are handy, this may be something that you can take care of on your own. Otherwise, call in a professional contractor to give you a hand. If you let small cracks get out of control, they can get worse and cause major damage to your property.
Add Insulation To Your Home
If parts of your home feel drafty or uneven in temperature, you may benefit from additional insulation. When your home is properly insulated, it will:
- Keeps cool air inside during summer
- Keeps warm air inside your home during winter
- Reduces strain on your HVAC system
- Lowers energy bills
- Improves overall comfort
Many homeowners in older Southwest Virginia homes are surprised by how much comfort improves after upgrading attic insulation. Even though this may be an initial investment, it’s going to help you save money in the long run.
Over the course of a year, using your HVAC systems, if there is poor insulation, air is leaking. This causes these systems to work harder and use unnecessary energy to keep the space cool or warm. This reduction in energy consumption leads to lower energy bills, and a longer lifespan for your HVAC system!
Get Ready For Spring With Complete Comfort
We hope this article helps you get ready for the warm weather that’s just around the corner. Performing these tasks now can prevent expensive repairs later and make your home a more comfortable place to live.
At Complete Comfort, we specialize in HVAC systems, generators, and home comfort solutions for homeowners throughout Southwest Virginia. Whether you need seasonal maintenance, repairs, or are considering upgrading your system, our team is ready to help.
Call us today at (276) 690-9222 or contact us online to schedule your spring service appointment. Let’s make sure your home is ready for everything 2026 has in store.