How To Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

April 27, 2024

It’s not uncommon for most homeowners to wait until it’s already hot outside to start checking on the status of their air conditioner. But before the days grow warmer and summer draws near, spring is the perfect time to ensure your air conditioner is up to the task of keeping you cool and comfortable. In this blog, we’ll dive into steps you can take on your own to prepare your AC for those hot summer months.

A woman fans herself, looking like she's sweating from the heat

DIY Steps To Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Summer

Getting your air conditioner ready for the hot months is about comfort, efficiency, and longevity. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can avoid those mid-summer breakdowns caused by your system working overtime. From simple cleaning to a bit more hands-on maintenance, we’ll guide you through everything you need to do to keep your cool all summer long. Here are the key areas to focus on:

Replace Your Air Filters

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to boost your air conditioner’s performance is by replacing the air filters. Over time, filters get clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris, which can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. A fresh filter allows your system to work more efficiently and keep your air cleaner. It’s recommended to change out your air filters every 3 months.

Schedule an AC Tune-Up

Tune-ups are like wellness checks for your AC. They’re key to ensuring everything is functioning correctly and efficiently before the season starts. During a tune-up, a technician can spot potential issues that, if left unattended, could lead to bigger problems down the line. This proactive approach can save you money and headaches on costly repairs.

Clean Debris

If your air conditioner has an outdoor unit that’s exposed to the elements, it can accumulate leaves, dirt, and other debris that might block the coils and reduce the system’s efficiency. Clearing the area around your unit not only improves airflow but also extends the life of your equipment.

Test Your Unit

The last thing you want to experience is your air conditioner not turning on in the middle of a heat wave. So, before the heat sets in, you’ll want to give your air conditioner a quick test run. This will help you catch any issues early on when AC repairs are easier to address — not while it’s hot, humid, and muggy. Listen for unusual noises, check for odd smells, and make sure the air is coming out cool and steady. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s better to tackle it now rather than smack dab in the middle of summer.

Get Your AC Ready With a Professional

While DIY maintenance is a great start, nothing beats a professional’s touch to ensure your air conditioner is in tiptop shape for summer. At Rick’s Heating & Cooling, our professional technicians provide a thorough inspection, assess any issues with your AC unit, and perform any tune-ups or necessary repairs your air conditioner may need.

Prepare your AC with the help of the pro at Rick’s Heating & Cooling. Schedule an air conditioning service today!