How to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Summer: Follow Our Guide

When summer is just around the corner, it means it’s time to get your air conditioner ready to beat the heat.

A well-maintained AC doesn’t just keep you cool; it also runs more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Preparing your air conditioner now ensures it can handle the sweltering months ahead without a hitch. From cleaning filters to scheduling a professional tune-up or duct cleaning, a few simple steps can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to keep your air conditioning system in top shape.

Check and Clean the Air Filters

Air filters are a critical component of your air conditioner, and keeping them clean ensures better performance and air quality. Here’s how to check and clean them:

• Locate the filters: Air filters are usually found near the indoor unit, in the return air duct, or within the AC itself. Refer to your system’s manual if you’re unsure.
• Inspect for dirt and debris: Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If it looks clogged with dust, it’s time for a cleaning or replacement.
• Clean or replace: Wash reusable filters with mild soap and water, letting them dry completely before reinstalling. For disposable filters, replace them with a new one.
• Set a maintenance schedule: Check and clean your filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak summer usage.

Clean filters improve airflow, reduce energy consumption, and ensure your home stays comfortably cool all summer.

Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Your air conditioner’s outdoor unit (or condenser) plays a vital role in keeping your home cool. To ensure it functions optimally, start by inspecting the area around it.

Clear away any debris, leaves, or overgrown vegetation that could block airflow. Ideally, there should be at least two feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper ventilation.

Next, check the condenser fins for dirt or damage. Dirty fins can reduce efficiency, while bent fins may restrict airflow. A gentle rinse with a garden hose can clean them effectively, but avoid using high-pressure water, as it could cause further damage.

Lastly, look for visible signs of wear, such as cracked pipes or loose connections. If you notice anything unusual, it’s best to call a professional to address the issue. By keeping your outdoor unit clean and well-maintained, you’ll help your air conditioner run more efficiently and extend its lifespan.

Examine the Ductwork for Leaks

Leaky ductwork can significantly reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency, wasting energy and making it harder to cool your home.

Here’s how to inspect and address potential leaks:

• Inspect visible sections: Look at exposed ductwork in your ceiling, attic or basement. Check for cracks, loose connections or gaps in the seams.
• Feel for air leaks: Run your hand along the ducts while the AC is on. If you feel air escaping, it’s a sign of a leak.
• Check for dirt or dust build up: Leaks often leave streaks of dust near openings, as escaping air carries debris with it.
• Seal the leaks: Use foil-backed tape or duct mastic to seal small gaps and cracks. Avoid regular duct tape, as it won’t hold up over time.
• Consider a professional inspection: If leaks are extensive or hard to access, hire a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician to ensure thorough repairs.

Sealing ductwork leaks improves airflow, keeps your home cooler, and helps lower energy bills during a long hot summer.

Test the Thermostat

Your thermostat is the command centre of your air conditioner, so it’s essential to ensure it’s working correctly before summer hits.

Start by turning on your AC and setting the thermostat to a few degrees cooler than the current room temperature. Pay attention to how quickly your system responds and whether it reaches the desired temperature.

If you’re still using an older, manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model. These options allow you to set cooling schedules and optimise energy usage, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable.

Check the thermostat’s location as well − it shouldn’t be near heat sources like lamps or direct sunlight, as this can affect temperature readings.

If your thermostat isn’t functioning as it should or seems inaccurate, it may need recalibration or replacement. Testing and upgrading your thermostat now ensures smooth, efficient cooling all summer long.

Clean the Coils

The evaporator and condenser coils in your air conditioner play a crucial role in heat exchange, keeping your home cool. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate, reducing efficiency.

Here’s how to clean them:

• Turn off power to the unit: Always put safety first. Switch off the power at the breaker or thermostat before cleaning.
• Locate the coils: The evaporator coils are inside the indoor unit, while the condenser coils are part of the outdoor unit.
• Remove dirt and debris: For condenser coils, use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dirt. For evaporator coils, a no-rinse coil cleaner is ideal.
• Rinse carefully: Use a garden hose to wash the outdoor coils, but avoid using high pressure to prevent damage.
• Schedule professional cleaning: If the coils are heavily soiled or hard to access, an HVAC technician can deep clean them safely.

Clean coils improve cooling efficiency, lower energy bills, and help your AC last longer through the summer.

Check Refrigerant Levels

Your air conditioner’s refrigerant is the lifeblood of the cooling process, absorbing heat from your home and releasing it outside.

If refrigerant levels are low, your AC won’t cool effectively, and you may notice warm air blowing from the vents, ice forming on the coils, or higher energy bills.

Checking refrigerant levels is a job best left to professionals. Handling refrigerant requires specialised tools and training, and low levels often indicate a leak, which needs immediate attention.

A licensed technician can safely inspect your system, locate leaks and recharge the refrigerant to the correct level.

Running your AC with insufficient refrigerant not only compromises cooling but can also damage the compressor − a costly repair. Scheduling a professional check before summer ensures your system runs efficiently and reliably during the hottest months.

By addressing refrigerant issues early, you’ll avoid discomfort and enjoy a stress-free cooling experience all summer long.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

A professional tune-up is one of the best ways to ensure your air conditioner is ready to handle the summer heat.

Here’s why it’s essential and what to expect:

• Thorough system inspection: A professional technician will check all components, including the motor, fan, compressor and electrical connections, to ensure everything is in working order.
• Refrigerant check: The technician will measure refrigerant levels, identify any leaks, and recharge the system if necessary.
• Coil cleaning: They’ll clean both the evaporator and condenser coils to improve cooling efficiency.
• Calibration and testing: The thermostat will be tested and calibrated for accurate temperature control.
• Preventative maintenance: Early identification of wear and tear can help avoid costly repairs during peak summer months.

Scheduling a tune-up not only improves efficiency but also gives you peace of mind, knowing your AC is prepared to keep you cool all summer long.

Tips for Optimising AC Efficiency in Summer

Maximising your air conditioner’s efficiency keeps your home cool while lowering energy bills. Here are some practical tips:

• Use ceiling fans: Fans help circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
• Seal windows and doors: Prevent cool air from escaping by sealing gaps with weather stripping or caulk. Closed blinds or curtains can also block out heat from the sun.
• Schedule cooling periods: Set your thermostat higher when you’re away and lower it only when needed. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this effortless.
• Maintain proper ventilation: Keep vents open and unblocked by furniture or curtains to ensure efficient airflow.
• Minimise heat sources: Avoid using heat-producing appliances like ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.

By following these tips, you’ll not only stay comfortable but also save money and reduce strain on your air conditioning system.

Get Ready to Beat the Heat

Preparing your air conditioner for summer is key to staying cool and comfortable during the hottest months. By taking simple steps like cleaning the filters, inspecting the outdoor unit, and testing the thermostat, you can boost your AC’s efficiency and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Don’t forget to check for duct leaks, clean the coils and schedule professional maintenance to ensure your system runs smoothly.

With these preparations, your air conditioner will be ready to handle the summer heat, keeping your home cool and your energy bills in check. Start now and enjoy a worry-free, refreshing summer season.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.