Quick Answer
Charlotte's climate requires year-round HVAC attention. Schedule AC maintenance in March-April before summer, furnace maintenance in September-October before winter. Change filters monthly during peak seasons (May-September for AC, December-February for heat). Our humidity makes dehumidification as important as cooling. Expect your AC to run 6-7 months and heating 3-4 months per year.
Charlotte's humid subtropical climate creates unique HVAC challenges. Our long, hot summers push AC systems hard, while mild winters mean heating needs are moderate but still important. This guide helps you optimize your HVAC system for each season.
Charlotte Climate Overview
What makes Charlotte different: Our humidity is the real challenge. A 90°F day at 70% humidity feels worse than 100°F in dry climates. Your AC has to work overtime removing moisture, not just cooling air. Properly sized and maintained equipment is essential.
Spring (March - May): AC Prep Season
March
March Tasks
- Schedule AC tune-up (before rush season begins)
- Replace air filter
- Test AC on a warm day to verify it's working
- Clear debris from around outdoor unit
- Check condensate drain line is clear
Pro Tip: Book Early
April
April Tasks
- Complete AC maintenance if not done in March
- Change filter (pollen season peak!)
- Open ceiling vents that were closed for winter
- Test ceiling fans—clean and reverse to counter-clockwise (summer mode)
- Consider upgrading filter to MERV 11 for pollen season
May
May Tasks
- Change filter (still high pollen)
- Verify AC is cooling properly before summer heat
- Set programmable thermostat for summer schedule
- Check weatherstripping on doors/windows
- Ensure all supply vents are open and unblocked
Summer (June - August): Peak AC Season
June
June Tasks
- Change filter (every 30 days during peak use)
- Verify condensate drain is draining properly
- Keep outdoor unit clear (2 feet clearance)
- Monitor energy bills for unusual increases
Temperature tip: Keep thermostat at 76-78°F when home. Every degree below 78 increases energy use 3-5%. Use ceiling fans to feel 4 degrees cooler without lowering the thermostat.
July
July Tasks
- Change filter
- Check for ice on refrigerant lines (indicates problems)
- Verify drainage from condensate line
- Don't set thermostat below 70°F (causes freezing)
- Close blinds on west-facing windows in afternoon
July Heat Warning
August
August Tasks
- Change filter
- Your AC has been working hard—listen for new sounds
- Check outdoor unit for debris buildup
- Monitor humidity (should be 50% or below inside)
- If humidity is high, consider dehumidifier
Fall (September - November): Transition Season
September
September Tasks
- Change filter
- Schedule fall/heating maintenance
- AC still needed most of September in Charlotte
- Check thermostat batteries before heating season
- Start planning for heating season
October
October Tasks
- Complete furnace/heat pump maintenance
- Change filter
- Test heating system before you need it
- Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise (winter mode)
- Check weatherstripping and caulking
- Clean or cover outdoor AC unit (if not a heat pump)
Don't Cover Heat Pumps
November
November Tasks
- Change filter
- Verify heating is working properly
- Check carbon monoxide detectors
- Close foundation vents (if applicable)
- Keep furniture/drapes away from vents
Winter (December - February): Heating Season
December
December Tasks
- Change filter
- Keep thermostat at 68-70°F when home
- Lower 5-8 degrees when sleeping/away
- Check for cold drafts around windows/doors
- Ensure nothing is blocking return air vents
January
January Tasks
- Change filter
- Monitor heating bills for unusual increases
- Check outdoor heat pump unit for ice buildup
- Know the location of emergency shutoffs
- During extreme cold, let faucets drip to prevent frozen pipes
Charlotte rarely sees extended extreme cold, but occasional freezing temps occur. Know what to do if your heating fails—and have our number handy for emergencies.
February
February Tasks
- Change filter
- Check that heat pump defrost cycle is working
- Start thinking about AC maintenance (schedule in March)
- Check for any signs of furnace problems before heavy use ends
Charlotte-Specific Tips
Managing Humidity
Charlotte's humidity is the biggest comfort challenge. Tips:
- Don't set thermostat too low—longer run cycles remove more humidity
- Use exhaust fans when cooking and showering
- Consider a whole-home dehumidifier for persistent issues
- Target 50% indoor humidity or below
- Variable-speed systems handle humidity better than single-speed
Dealing with Pollen
Charlotte is one of the worst cities for allergies. HVAC tips:
- Use MERV 11 or higher filters during spring (March-May)
- Change filters more frequently during pollen season
- Keep windows closed when pollen counts are high
- Consider UV air purifier or electronic air cleaner
- Clean/replace filters after pollen season peak
Storm Season Preparation
Charlotte sees severe thunderstorms, especially in spring and summer:
- Install whole-home surge protector to protect HVAC
- Know how to reset your system after power outage
- Check outdoor unit for debris after storms
- If power flickers, wait 5 minutes before AC restarts (built-in delay)
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Written by
Kodiak HVAC Team
HVAC professional at Kodiak Heating & Cooling.