With summer around the corner, now is the time to check up on your air conditioner so that you can stay cool without any interruptions this season. It's important to maintain your air conditioner so that you can catch any issues ahead of time or determine if you need to upgrade. Additionally, you can ensure that your unit is operating efficiently as to avoid any costly electric bills down the line. Follow our 4 steps to get your air conditioner ready for the summer:

1. Test Your Air Conditioner

Start by testing your air conditioner. Turn the unit on and run it as cold as it can go for at least an hour. If you notice anything out of the ordinary such as odd sounds, inefficient cooling, or a lack of air, it may be time to reach out to an HVAC professional while they still have openings available.

2. Check on the Condensing Unit

Head outside to the condensing unit and clear any debris that may interfere with the air intake. Cut the surrounding grass, weeds, and remove any material that accumulated throughout the winter.

We advise against washing the condensing unit at risk of damaging it or harming yourself. If you believe that there may be something wrong with the unit, hiring a professional to clean the system is recommended. 

3. Replace Air Filters 

After prolonged use, your air conditioner’s filters will collect dust and debris, effecting the unit's efficiency. Now is a great time to determine if you need to wash or replace your filters. Keep in mind that some filters must be replaced while permanent filters need an annual cleaning. 

4. Test the Thermostat 

Don’t forget to test the thermostat. Set it to its cooling mode and check to see if the air conditioner is functioning correctly. If you use a programmable thermostat, set up a schedule to test cooling times throughout the next 24 hours. If your air conditioner or thermostat is not behaving as expected, it's time to call an HVAC professional. 

Schedule Regular Maintenance Visits

Preventative maintenance is key to a healthy air conditioning unit and a comfortable, happy summer indoors. An air conditioning unit running at peak efficiency can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars each year in utility bills. 

During check-ups, your certified technician will test, check, clean, and inspect various components to ensure safe and proper function and maximum performance.