How to Get Your Air Conditioner Summer-Ready

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Here’s hot to prepare your air conditioner for the summer: 
  • Change the air filter
  • Clean the coils
  • Check the thermostat
  • Inspect the ductwork
  • Clear the area around the outdoor unit
  • Check the refrigerant levels
  • Test the system
  • Schedule professional tune-ups

​If you’ve lived in Colorado for a while, then you already know how hot and dry our summers can get. So, the last thing you would want to deal with is a dead air conditioner in the middle of summer! That’s why we’ve put together this quick and easy guide on how to get your A/C unit ready for summer!

Preparing Your Air Conditioner for the Summer: A Comprehensive Checklist

How to Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer - HVAC Solutions

1). Change the Air FilterFirst things first: Let's talk about the air filter. The air filter plays a big role in keeping your air conditioner running smoothly. Over time, filters get clogged with dust, dirt, and other nasties, which can make your A/C work harder than it needs to. Swap out your old filter for a new one, and you'll not only improve your air quality but also help your A/C run more efficiently. Aim to change your filter every 1-3 months during the summer, depending on how often you use your A/C.

2). Clean the CoilsYour A/C's coils are important. Both the evaporator and condenser coils can gather dirt over time, which reduces their ability to absorb and release heat. Grab a soft brush or cloth and gently clean the coils to get rid of any grime. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, it's totally okay to call in a professional.

3). Check the ThermostatNext up, let's make sure your thermostat is ready to rock. If you don't have a programmable thermostat, now might be a good time to invest in one. These handy devices can save you money by automatically adjusting the temperature when you're not home. Make sure your thermostat is set to a comfortable temperature. This way, you won't be cooling an empty house and wasting energy.

4). Inspect the DuctworkLeaky ducts can be a real pain, letting all that cool air escape before it even reaches your living space. Take a walk around your home and check for any visible leaks or gaps in your ductwork. If you find any, seal them up with duct tape or mastic sealant. This simple step can improve your A/C's efficiency and keep your home cooler.

5). Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor UnitYour A/C's outdoor unit needs some breathing room to work properly. Make sure there's at least two feet of clearance around the unit, and clear away any leaves, grass, or other debris that might have accumulated over the winter. Trim back any overgrown plants or bushes to ensure proper airflow. This will help your air conditioner run more efficiently and prevent serious damage from occurring.

6). Check the Refrigerant LevelsLow refrigerant levels can spell trouble for your air conditioner. If your A/C isn't cooling as well as it used to, or if you notice ice forming on the refrigerant lines, it might be time to check the refrigerant levels. This is a job best left to the professionals, so give your local HVAC technician a call if you suspect a problem.

7). Test the SystemBefore the summer heat really kicks in, take your air conditioner for a test run. Turn it on and let it run for a while to make sure everything is working properly. Pay attention to any strange noises or odors, and check to see if the air coming out of the vents is cool. If anything seems off, it's better to address it now rather than in the middle of a heatwave.

8). Schedule Professional Tune-Ups
Finally, the best way to ensure your air conditioner is ready for summer is to schedule a professional tune-up. A certified HVAC technician will give your system a thorough inspection, cleaning, and tune-up, catching any potential issues before they become major problems. This can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

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Get Professional Help with Your Air Conditioner Today

Want professional help with your air conditioner? Contact HVAC Solutions today for all your A/C maintenance and repair needs. Our team of expert technicians is here to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long. Call us now to schedule your service!