Spring has sprung, and now summer is just around the corner. Air conditioners are essential for maintaining indoor comfort during the hot months. Temperatures will only get warmer, adding demand to your central air conditioner. But there are a few ways that you can get ready for the heat of the summer by taking some proactive steps to care for your air conditioner and maintain your ac system for optimal performance now. Following expert maintenance tips can help homeowners prepare their AC and other heating and cooling systems for the summer, ensuring efficient operation and comfort.
When you do need service for your central air conditioning in Washington Court House, OH, you can give our team a call to schedule service. In the meantime, you can keep reading to learn our tips for getting your air conditioner ready for the summer season. You may think that you have plenty of time with summer being yet a few months away, but preparing early will offer the best results to keep your home cool all summer.
Introduction: Why Air Conditioning Maintenance Matters
As the temperatures rise, your air conditioning system becomes the key to keeping your home cool and comfortable. But did you know that regular air conditioner maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance and efficiency? Taking care of your air conditioning not only helps your unit deliver reliable cooling, but it also reduces energy costs and extends the lifespan of your equipment. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs, higher utility bills, and even unexpected breakdowns during the hottest days of the year. In this article, we’ll explore why air conditioner maintenance matters, common issues to watch for, and practical tips to keep your system running smoothly. By making maintenance a priority, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long—without the stress of surprise repairs or soaring energy bills.
The Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance
Keeping up with regular maintenance for your air conditioning system offers a host of benefits that go beyond just staying cool. One of the biggest advantages is improved indoor air quality—clean air conditioner filters and a well-maintained indoor evaporator coil help trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, so you can breathe easier at home. Regular maintenance also boosts energy efficiency, meaning your air conditioner uses less energy to keep your home comfortable, which can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills. By having a licensed HVAC professional inspect and clean your evaporator coil, check refrigerant lines for leaks, and perform routine tune ups, you can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs. This proactive approach not only keeps your system running at peak performance but also extends the life of your equipment, so you get the most out of your investment. Whether it’s replacing filters, checking airflow, or ensuring your system is free of refrigerant leaks, regular maintenance is the key to reliable, efficient cooling all season long.
Common Issues with Air Conditioners Before Summer
Before the summer heat arrives, it’s important to address some common issues that can affect your air conditioner’s performance. One of the most frequent problems is a dirty filter, which can restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and the risk of breakdowns. Refrigerant leaks are another concern, as they can reduce your air conditioner’s cooling power and lead to higher energy bills. Clogged condensate drains can cause water to back up, potentially resulting in water damage and mold growth. Faulty electric terminals may also prevent your system from starting or running efficiently. By scheduling annual AC maintenance with a provider of top notch HVAC services, you can catch these issues early and avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance ensures your air conditioner is ready for the cooling season, providing year round comfort and peace of mind.
Change the Filter
Your first step in getting ready for summer is to change out the air filter on your air conditioner. Regularly checking and replacing air filters is a crucial part of air conditioner maintenance, as it helps maintain indoor air quality and system efficiency. If the old filter is still in place from last year, this is especially important. However, if you thought ahead, you may have already put your air filter in place at the end of last season so that you’d be ready for the summer. Regular maintenance of your air conditioner’s filters, coils, fins, and refrigerant lines is essential for efficient and effective performance.
Either way, we encourage you to check the intake grate just to be safe. Leaving a dirty filter in place puts you at risk for airflow problems with your air conditioner as you head into summer. Your unit may not be able to keep up with cooling needs if it can’t bring in enough air through a dirty filter. Aside from putting a new, clean filter in place right now—which improves system efficiency and extends the lifespan of your unit—it’s also important that you set reminders to change out the air filter on time every one to three months, replacing filters according to manufacturer guidelines as part of regular air conditioner maintenance.
Check the Outdoor Unit
Your next stop is the outdoor unit. This part of your air conditioner probably gets ignored most of the time because you don’t see it or think about it very often. But it’s a good idea at the beginning of the season to hose it down with gentle water pressure to get rid of any dirt buildup. You can also check for debris like leaves and sticks that are around the unit.
You want to keep a clearance of around three feet of space so that your outdoor unit has the capacity for strong airflow out. After all, this is where heat gets released from inside your home as part of the cooling process. If any of the fins are bent, you can use a butter knife to gently separate them again and straighten them out. Keep in mind that you want to do this very carefully because the fins are fragile.
Check the Outdoor Unit
Your next stop is the outdoor ac unit. This part of your air conditioner probably gets ignored most of the time because you don’t see it or think about it very often. But it’s a good idea at the beginning of the season to hose down your outdoor ac unit with gentle water pressure to get rid of any dirt buildup. It’s especially important to clean the condenser coils, as dirty condenser coils can reduce efficiency and put extra strain on your system. You can also check for debris like leaves and sticks that are around the unit. Regularly keeping your air conditioner free from leaves and other debris can significantly extend its lifespan and enhance its efficiency.
You want to keep a clearance of around three feet of space so that your outdoor ac unit has the capacity for strong airflow out. After all, this is where heat gets released from inside your home as part of the cooling system process. If any of the fins are bent, you can use a butter knife or the right equipment to gently separate them again and straighten them out. Keep in mind that you want to do this very carefully because the fins are fragile. Bent coil fins can block airflow, reducing the efficiency of your system.
If you have a heat pump, do not cover it during the winter, as it needs to remain uncovered to function properly for heating. Regular maintenance of your outdoor ac unit, as well as other units like central air conditioners and window units, helps improve your system’s efficiency and can lower your utility bills. Remember to inspect the window frame for air leaks when checking window seals. For best results, schedule a tune up or regular tune ups with a professional technician or hvac technician. Maintaining your cooling system, hvac system, and heating system ensures year-round comfort. Using a programmable thermostat and checking your thermostat settings can further optimize performance and energy savings. A smart thermostat can further optimize your system by automatically adjusting temperature settings based on your preferences and schedule. Identifying minor issues early can prevent costly repairs.
Inspect the Condensate Drain
Inspecting the condensate drain is an essential part of keeping your air conditioning system running smoothly and efficiently all summer long. The condensate drain works to remove excess moisture from your air conditioner, and if it becomes clogged, you could face water damage, reduced indoor air quality, and even higher energy costs. To keep your system in top shape, locate the drain line near your indoor evaporator coil and check for any signs of block. Make sure you have clear access to the end of the condensate drain so you can effectively clear blockages and perform routine maintenance. Clogged drains can reduce the unit’s ability to remove condensed water from the system.
Cost of AC Maintenance: What to Expect
When it comes to keeping your air conditioning system in top shape, the cost of maintenance is a smart investment. On average, a routine maintenance visit from a qualified HVAC technician ranges from $65 to $200, depending on your location and the specific services required. While this may seem like an added expense, regular maintenance pays off by improving system efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and helping you avoid expensive repairs down the road. Many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans or packages, making it easier to budget for ongoing care and ensuring your equipment receives the attention it needs. By investing in regular maintenance, you not only protect your air conditioning system but also enjoy lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your equipment.
Schedule Professional Service
Your last stop in taking care of your air conditioner ahead of spring and summer is to schedule professional service. There’s only so much that you can do as a homeowner and while the tasks you complete are extremely important for caring for your air conditioner, nothing can replace professional service. It’s important to have a professional technician assess your ac unit for any issues to ensure it operates efficiently and reliably. The technician will also inspect and maintain the indoor unit to ensure efficient operation and maintain indoor air quality. A well-trained technician performs a comprehensive check and tune-up during AC maintenance service calls.
When our team is able to make a few tweaks to your air conditioner all along, you have the best chance of a long lifespan with great energy efficiency and effective cooling. Oftentimes, our team can identify repair needs or problems earlier and save you the headache of an emergency breakdown and a much more expensive repair bill. If necessary, the technician can also advise on repairing or replacing the ac unit to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion: Stay Cool and Comfortable All Summer
In summary, taking care of your air conditioning system with regular maintenance is essential for enjoying a cool, comfortable home all summer long. Prioritizing air conditioner maintenance means better indoor air quality, greater energy efficiency, and fewer unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs. Don’t forget to schedule annual AC maintenance with a licensed HVAC professional—whether you have a central system, heat pump, or window unit, expert care is the key to optimal performance and long-term savings. With the right maintenance routine, you can keep your air conditioner running efficiently, lower your energy costs, and ensure your home stays comfortable no matter how high the temperatures climb. Make maintenance a part of your summer prep, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reliable, efficient cooling system.
Shafer Heating & Cooling, LLC: You are just one call away from the comfort and savings you deserve! Schedule an appointment today for your AC service including repairs and maintenance.