Ensure Your AC is Ready to Handle Peak Summer Heat with These Checks
When temperatures rise, your air conditioner needs to be in top shape. But what happens to many homeowners who skip routine maintenance before a season of heavy use? Simple: they discover that the AC isn’t working as it should, or worse, that it won’t even turn on! After all, like any mechanical system, an air conditioner needs regular care to perform at its best.
The good news is that there’s still time to check your unit and make sure it’s ready to keep up when the heat is at its peak. Just when your body needs relief the most!
Why Regular AC Maintenance Matters
Air conditioners are built to last for years, but without proper care, their efficiency declines. Dust, debris, and worn-out parts force your unit to work harder than it should, driving up energy use and accelerating wear. That’s especially concerning when you consider that, according to The Washington Post, U.S. electricity rates have risen about 40 percent since 2010.
At the same time, cooling has shifted from being a comfort to being an absolute necessity. CNET reports, citing data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), that almost 90% of American households rely on air conditioning to handle rising summer temperatures. The challenge is clear: you need your AC to perform reliably, but you also want to keep energy bills under control.
Proactive maintenance is the smartest way to get the most out of your unit. By keeping your system in shape, you can:
- Manage energy costs: When your AC is well-tuned, it cools efficiently, lowering electricity use and keeping bills under control, especially when supported by plumbing services.
- Prevent costly repairs: Routine checks catch small problems before they grow into major breakdowns, saving you from expensive emergency service calls.
- Improve indoor air quality: Changing filters and keeping the system clean stops dust, mold, and allergens from circulating, making your home healthier.
- Extend the lifespan of your unit: Proper maintenance reduces wear on key parts, helping your AC last longer and perform reliably year after year.
In short, maintenance is a small investment that pays off in both comfort and savings.
Ways to Keep Your AC in Top Shape
Here are some simple actions you can take to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and reliably during the hottest times of the year:
Inspect and Replace Air Filters
Your AC filter plays a critical role in keeping airflow unobstructed and indoor air clean. A clogged filter restricts circulation, forcing the system to use more energy to cool your home. Over time, this strain can shorten the lifespan of the unit.
Experts recommend checking filters monthly during peak cooling season. Depending on usage and household conditions, like pets or allergies, you may need to replace them every 90 days. Clean filters also prevent dust from building up on internal components, reducing the risk of damage and maintaining efficiency.
Clean the Condenser and Evaporator Coils
Both the condenser and evaporator coils handle heat transfer, making them essential to cooling performance. However, they naturally accumulate dirt and dust. When that happens, the coils lose their ability to absorb and release heat effectively.
Condenser coils are located outside. Clear away leaves, weeds, or debris, and gently rinse the fins with a garden hose.
Evaporator coils are inside the unit. Dirt here reduces efficiency and can cause freezing. Using a soft brush or specialized cleaner, keep them free of buildup.
A clean system runs cooler, uses less energy, and is less prone to breakdowns, helping you avoid plumbing repairs.
Monitor Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner. If levels are too low, the system won’t cool properly, and the compressor may overheat. Unlike filter changes, refrigerant checks should only be handled by certified professionals since improper handling poses health and environmental risks.
Scheduling annual service ensures refrigerant levels are balanced, leaks are detected early, and your unit continues operating safely.
Pay Attention To Noises & Odors
Unusual sounds or smells from your AC should never be ignored. They’re often early warning signs of more significant issues:
- Rattling or buzzing may signal loose components.
- Squealing can point to worn belts.
- Musty odors often mean mold growth in the ductwork.
- Burning smells may indicate electrical trouble.
Addressing these signs promptly with professional help prevents small problems from escalating into expensive repairs.
Protect The Condensate Drain Line
A blocked condensate drain line can cause water damage inside your home. To avoid clogs, pour a half-cup of vinegar down the line once a month. This simple step prevents algae growth and keeps the system draining properly.
If you notice standing water near the indoor unit, it’s a clear sign the line may already be obstructed and needs the attention of professional plumbers.
Optimize Airflow In Your Home
Even the best AC system can struggle if air isn’t circulating properly. Simple actions like keeping vents open, ensuring furniture isn’t blocking registers, and leaving doors slightly ajar can improve performance.
For stubbornly warm rooms, consider installing booster fans in ductwork or using ceiling fans to circulate air more evenly. Improving airflow eases the strain on your unit and creates more consistent comfort.
Use a Programmable Or Smart Thermostat
Technology can help you save energy without sacrificing comfort. Programmable and smart thermostats allow you to set schedules that automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away or asleep.
A smart thermostat can even learn your habits and optimize cooling on its own. These tools reduce wasted energy while ensuring your home is always at the right temperature when you need it most.
Inspect Windows & Insulation
Your air conditioner has to work harder if your home isn’t well insulated. Heat entering through windows or poorly sealed ductwork can significantly impact performance. To help your AC run efficiently:
- Install window treatments or tints to reduce heat gain.
- Seal leaks around windows and doors.
- Wrap ducts located in hot attics or crawl spaces with insulation.
By reducing the workload on your system, you extend its lifespan and save money on energy bills.
Why Professional AC Maintenance Is Essential
While many AC maintenance tasks can be done at home, there are crucial services that only trained experts should perform. Annual professional inspections typically include:
- Deep cleaning coils and drain lines.
- Checking refrigerant and pressures.
- Testing electrical connections.
- Lubricating moving parts.
- Verifying system controls and thermostat function.
Having skilled plumbing contractors examine your system each spring helps prevent mid-summer breakdowns when you need cooling the most.
Signs You Need An AC Replacement
Even with perfect care, no air conditioner lasts forever. If your unit is more than 12–15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or struggles to keep your home comfortable, upgrading may be the most cost-effective option.
Newer models are designed with higher efficiency standards, meaning they cool more effectively while using less energy. While replacement requires an upfront investment, it pays off through lower utility bills and improved reliability.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
Air conditioner maintenance is a task often underestimated by many homeowners. However, it’s better to take action before you find yourself wishing you had. Especially when your AC fails on the hottest days when you need it most!
To prevent this and arrange preventive maintenance, you can trust Smith Plumbing. At our Arizona's top-rated plumbing company, we ensure your air conditioner is in top condition. If things are more complicated and you need repairs, we can handle those too. Just get in touch with us!
