Preparing Your AC for the Summer: Essential Maintenance Tips for Residential Units

With summer just around the corner, it’s essential for homeowners to make sure their air conditioning systems are ready to handle the heat. Proper AC maintenance not only ensures your unit operates at peak efficiency during the warmer months, but it can also help prolong the system’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

The importance of summer AC maintenance cannot be understated. During periods of heavy use, your AC system works overtime to provide a comfortable living environment for you and your family. Regular maintenance addresses wear and tear, reducing the risk of breakdowns and system failures. In addition, an efficiently operating AC unit consumes less energy and lowers your monthly utility bills.

While some basic maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, it’s essential to enlist our professionals’ help for a comprehensive inspection and tune-up of your AC system. Our technicians are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to address any issues that may arise during the maintenance process, ensuring your air conditioner is ready to take on the summer heat.

Continue reading as we explain why summer AC maintenance is essential for residential properties and offer critical maintenance tasks that should be performed to keep your cooling system functioning optimally throughout the season.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

One of the most critical maintenance tasks for your AC system is checking and cleaning or replacing the air filters. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder and consume more energy. It can also lead to poor indoor air quality by allowing dust, allergens, and other particles to circulate within your home.

Most air filters should be checked at least once a month during periods of heavy use and replaced as necessary, typically every three months. However, this timeline may vary depending on factors such as the filter type, the presence of pets, and the overall air quality in your home. Our professionals can recommend the appropriate filter type and replacement schedule for your specific needs.

Check Refrigerant Levels and Inspect for Leaks

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system, as it’s responsible for the cooling process. Ensuring your system has the correct amount of refrigerant and addressing any leaks are essential tasks for summer AC maintenance.

Our technicians can inspect your system for refrigerant leaks, as well as evaluate and recharge the refrigerant levels as needed. Addressing refrigerant leaks promptly can save you money by improving your system’s efficiency and avoiding potentially costly repairs caused by prolonged exposure to leaks.

Inspect and Clean Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Both the condenser coil (located in the outdoor unit) and the evaporator coil (located in the indoor unit) play crucial roles in the heat exchange process that cools your home. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on these coils, negatively impacting their performance and efficiency.

During your summer AC maintenance appointment, our technicians will inspect and clean both the condenser and evaporator coils, removing any built-up debris and ensuring optimal heat transfer. Maintaining clean coils not only improves your system’s performance but it can also help extend the life of your AC unit.

Test Thermostat Functionality and Settings

Your thermostat serves as the control center for your AC system, and ensuring its proper functionality is essential for effective temperature regulation and energy efficiency. During your summer AC maintenance appointment, our technicians will test the thermostat’s accuracy, ensuring it’s communicating correctly with your AC system and maintaining the desired temperature.

If you have an older, non-programmable thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These modern devices allow you to schedule temperature adjustments throughout the day, helping to reduce energy consumption and save you money on your utility bills. Our professionals can recommend the best thermostat option to suit your needs and help with the installation process.

Trust Our Professionals for Comprehensive Summer AC Maintenance

By addressing these essential maintenance tasks, you can help ensure your AC system is ready to take on the summer heat and maintain a comfortable living environment for you and your family. While some tasks can be performed by homeowners, enlisting the help of our experienced technicians for a thorough inspection and tune-up can save you time, prevent potential problems, and prolong the life of your system.

Don’t wait until the summer heatwave to give your AC some much-needed attention. Trust our knowledgeable team at Homer’s River City Heating and Cooling, Inc. to provide comprehensive air conditioning services in Lawrence for your residential property so you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long. Contact us today to schedule your summer AC maintenance appointment.