How Do I Prepare My Air Conditioner for Summer?

April 6, 2022

In a few months, summer will be here, which means it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to stay cool during the hottest months of the year. One of the best ways to beat the heat is to use your air conditioner, but if it isn’t prepared for this season, it won’t be able to do its job properly. How do I check my air conditioning before summer? We’ll show you how to get your air conditioner ready for this season.

1. Change Your Air Conditioner’s Filters

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your air conditioner for summer is to change its filters. Dirty filters will make your air conditioner work harder than it needs to, which will result in higher energy bills and shorter run times. Be sure to change your air conditioner’s filters at least once a month or once every two months. That way, your air conditioner will be able to run more efficiently and keep you cool properly.

2. Clean the Condenser Unit

Another crucial step on how to prepare air conditioner before summer is to clean the condenser unit. This will help the unit run more efficiently and keep your home cool. You can clean the condenser unit by using a garden hose and sprayer to rinse it off. Be sure to avoid getting water inside the unit, as this could damage it. Apart from helping your AC unit run better, cleaning the condenser unit also helps improve the air quality in your home. You won’t risk your family members breathing in dirt and dust, which can cause respiratory issues.

3. Inspect the Coolant Lines

It’s also vital to inspect the coolant lines before summer arrives. If they’re cracked or leaking, you’ll need to have them repaired. You can also have the coolant lines flushed to get rid of any built-up dirt or debris. Check the insulation around the lines, too. If it’s damaged or worn out, you’ll need to replace it.

4. Check for Leaky Ductwork

Another common issue that can cause your air conditioner to work harder than it should is leaky ductwork. If you have a leaky duct, the cool air will escape, which will force your AC unit to work harder than necessary. You can have the ducts sealed to prevent this from happening, or you can have them replaced altogether. An HVAC expert can help you determine if your ducts are leaking and what can be done to fix the problem.

5. Check Refrigerant Levels

If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home properly, one thing you can do is check the refrigerant levels. If they’re low, you can have them topped up. However, if the levels are too high, you’ll need to have the AC unit serviced. It’s best to have a professional check and adjust the refrigerant levels, as too much or too little refrigerant can damage the AC unit.

6. Test Your AC Unit

Before you rely on your AC unit to keep you cool during the summer, it’s a good idea to test it out. Turn it on and see how it performs. This will help you determine if any issues need to be fixed before summer arrives. If your AC unit is old or outdated, you may want to consider replacing it. A new unit will be more efficient and likely last longer than an older unit.

These are some of the things you can do to prepare your AC for the summer season. You can get the help of an AC professional to help you with some of these tasks and ensure you do everything right. By taking the time to prepare your air conditioner for summer, you’ll be able to cool down and relax during the hottest months of the year.