{"id":1128,"date":"2025-04-07T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-07T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hometownheatingandair.com\/blog\/?p=1128"},"modified":"2025-04-01T16:08:51","modified_gmt":"2025-04-01T23:08:51","slug":"how-to-prepare-your-ac-for-the-summer-heat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hometownheatingandair.com\/blog\/air-conditioning-service\/how-to-prepare-your-ac-for-the-summer-heat\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare Your AC for the Summer Heat"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"air-conditioning-condensers-outside-building\"<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

When the summer temperatures start climbing, dependable home air conditioning<\/a> isn\u2019t just a luxury\u2014it\u2019s a necessity. At Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to make sure your system is ready to handle the heat without breaking a sweat (or your budget).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking a few DIY steps now can save you from costly breakdowns later\u2014but the most important thing you can do? Schedule professional AC maintenance with our expert team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your air filter is your first line of defense against dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants. If your filter is clogged, your AC has to work much harder to keep your home cool, reducing efficiency and increasing wear on your system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip: <\/strong>Check your filter at least once a month during the cooling season and replace or clean it (depending on the type) every 1\u20133 months. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to do it more frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your outdoor condenser unit needs plenty of airflow to operate efficiently. Over the winter and spring, it\u2019s common for leaves, twigs, dirt, and even weeds to accumulate around the unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Clear away any debris within a two-foot radius of the unit. Trim back any plants or shrubs and rinse the condenser coils with a garden hose to remove surface dirt (just make sure the unit is turned off first).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Check Your Thermostat Settings<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your thermostat plays a key role in your AC\u2019s performance. Outdated or poorly calibrated thermostats can lead to inefficient cooling and higher energy bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> If you don\u2019t already have a programmable or smart thermostat, consider upgrading. These devices allow you to automate temperature changes throughout the day\u2014keeping your home cool when you need it and saving energy when you don\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Inspect and Clean Air Vents<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Blocked or dirty vents can reduce airflow throughout your home and put unnecessary strain on your cooling system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Walk through your home and inspect each vent. Remove dust buildup with a vacuum and make sure furniture or curtains aren\u2019t blocking the vents. You want cool air to move freely in every room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Test Your System Early<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t wait for the first triple-digit day to turn on your AC. By testing it early in the season, you\u2019ll have time to catch potential problems before you really need your system running full-time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip:<\/strong> Turn on your system and let it run for a complete cycle. Listen for strange noises, check for weak airflow, and monitor how quickly your home reaches your desired temperature. Any issues could be a sign your system needs professional attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Schedule Professional AC Maintenance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While these DIY steps can go a long way in keeping your system efficient, they\u2019re no substitute for professional maintenance. Our trained technicians at Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning know exactly what to look for\u2014and how to keep your system running at peak performance all summer long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During a professional tune-up, we:<\/p>\n\n\n\n