HVAC Maintenance: Get Your AC Ready for Summer 2025
As temperatures rise and the season shifts toward warmer days, the last thing you want is for your air conditioning (AC) to let you down. Preparing your AC for the summer is more than just a routine maintenance check; it's a smart move to keep your home cool and comfortable. With these maintenance tips, getting your AC ready for summer will be a breeze.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Don't just flip your thermostat to "Cool" and call it a day. There's more to do to ready your AC for the summer.
- A thorough tune-up can make your home the perfect retreat from the heat.
- Keeping up with maintenance can help you dodge unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
You can make your home a summer oasis by properly prepping your AC system. Drag your feet, though, and there could be HVAC repairs in your future that you could have avoided.
Clean the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils play a critical role in your AC's cooling process, but they can get pretty grimy. Here's how to clean them:
- Safety First: Always turn off the power before you start poking around.
- Remove Debris: Get rid of any leaves or twigs hanging around the coils.
- Gently Wash the Coils: Carefully hose down the coils, steering clear of any strong water pressure that could cause damage.
- Let Them Dry: Make sure the coils dry completely before you power things back up.
A clean condenser coil means your AC can chill your home more efficiently.
Insulate the Coolant Line
Keeping the coolant line well-insulated is key to preventing energy loss. Check the insulation regularly, and if it's seen better days, get it replaced to keep your AC's efficiency on point.
Turn Off the Furnace Humidifier
Your air conditioner helps keep you cool by removing humidity from your house. You don’t want the humidifier attached to your furnace to be pumping moisture back into the air. If your furnace is equipped with a humidifier, turn off the humidifier. Don't see an on/off switch? Move the damper door lever to the Cool position, so the cooled air doesn’t go through the humidifier.
Ensure the Fan Is Operational
The fan plays a big part in your HVAC system, moving air throughout your home. To test it:
- Start It Up: Turn the fan on at the thermostat.
- Listen In: Make sure you hear it running without any odd noise.
If you don’t hear it kick on or if it doesn't sound right, it's time to call in the pros.
Maintain the Air Filter
A clean air filter is non-negotiable for keeping your HVAC system running.
- First Check: Swap out the air filter at the start of the season.
- Keep It Up: Change the air filter monthly to keep everything running smoothly.
Keep Your AC Running Strong: Extra Tips
Booking a yearly maintenance service for your AC with Sears Home Services is a smart move to keep it running like a champ all summer long. Our experts know just what to look for and can fix little problems before they turn into big, expensive ones.
Beyond the basic summer prep work, here are a few more things boost your AC's efficiency and dependability:
- Energy Audits: Get an energy audit to find out how you can tighten up your home's cooling efficiency.
- Thermostat Settings: Adjust them to match your daily routine, saving energy without sacrificing comfort.
- Think About an Upgrade: If your AC unit is old and cranky, investing in a newer model could save you money and stress in the long run.
- Clever Landscaping: Some strategic greenery can shade your AC unit, helping it run more efficiently.
By following this maintenance checklist and considering these additional tips, you'll not only increase your comfort but also save energy and extend your system's lifespan. And remember, if you hit a snag or prefer the touch of a pro, the HVAC experts are just a call away, ready to ensure your AC is primed for the summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A capacitor in an AC unit is an electrical component that stores and releases electrical energy to help start the motor and stabilize the voltage during operation.
ENERGY STAR appliances are energy-efficient products that meet the strict energy efficiency specifications set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the U.S. Department of Energy. These appliances are designed to use less energy and water, leading to cost savings and a reduced environmental impact.
The 608 Certification, mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is required for HVAC technicians to legally handle refrigerants. It ensures technicians understand refrigerant types, environmental impact, and proper handling techniques.
A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume, essential in various systems including refrigerators, air conditioners, and HVAC units for cooling and refrigeration processes.
Common Appliance Symptoms
The most common reasons your Amana dishwasher won't drain are a failed drain pump, faulty pump and motor assembly or a cracked drain hose.
The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Maytag refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Bosch dishwasher has no heat are a defective electronic control board, clogged water valve or a broken detergent dispenser.
The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite microwave has no power are a bad thermostat, malfunctioning electronic control board or a broken switch.
The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator is noisy are a faulty ice maker assembly, defective electronic control board or a locked compressor.