How to Make Sure Your A/C is Ready for Summer

After your air conditioner sits idle for several months through the winter, it’s a good idea to do a checkup before you get too far into spring or summer.

The following tips will help your system get off to the right start and make sure your house stays cool all summer long:

1. Change air filters and clean vents. Indoor air filters need to be changed on a monthly or bi-monthly basis to keep your system running well. During the winter, dust can accumulate quickly on the filters, so it’s important to replace them at the start of spring. It’s also a good idea to dust and clean any debris off the supply and return vents to make sure the air is circulating properly.
    
   Read: Yes, You Can (and Should) Change Your Air Filter

 

2. Examine outdoor unit. Take a look at your outdoor unit for a couple of important things: First, make sure there are no tree leaves or other objects in the unit itself, and also make sure trees or bushes aren’t growing too close to the unit. You want to leave two feet around the perimeter of the unit completely clear so nothing is blocking the air flow.
    
   Secondly, you want to visually inspect the outdoor unit to make sure none of the panels are missing from the sides. Sometimes these panels can get blown or knocked off, which can be dangerous to the unit and to you.

 

3. Test it Out. One of the best ways to find out if your HVAC system needs maintenance is to turn it on. Simply starting it up will bring out any obvious problems like unusual noises or if it’s not sufficiently cooling your home.

 

4. Schedule professional maintenance. Lastly, it’s always a good idea to have a certified HVAC technician come and inspect your entire system. They will be able to spot smaller issues or potential issues that you may not see. This maintenance check can ensure you and your family stay cool through the spring and summer.

If you’d like to find out more about preventative maintenance and how it can save you from big issues later on, then read: 8 Air Conditioning Problems You Can Prevent With Proper Maintenance.