Sears Tech Tips for Keeping Your AC Running in 2026

Summer isn’t over yet. As temperatures soar in August, keeping your air conditioner in top shape is crucial for a cool and comfortable home. Regular maintenance not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your AC unit. Here, we share the top 3 AC maintenance tips for summer to help you maintain an efficient system throughout the hot season.

1. Regularly Replace the Air Filter

One of the most critical AC maintenance tasks is regularly replacing the air filter. Dirty filters obstruct airflow, reducing your air conditioner's efficiency and leading to higher energy bills.

When the air filter clogs with dust, dirt, and debris, it restricts airflow, making your AC work harder to cool your home. This not only strains the system but also diminishes cooling performance.

How Often You Should Replace Your AC Air Filter

How often should you replace your air filter? It depends on the filter type, indoor air quality, and AC usage. Generally, you should replace typical air filters every 30 days in summer. In extremely hot climates, consider replacing the AC air filter every 2 week. Follow the directions in the owner’s manual for your unit and on the AC air filter package if guidelines differ from these.

What Type of Filter Should I Use for Summer

Air filters come in various types, including fiberglass, pleated, and electrostatic. Fiberglass filters are basic and affordable, while pleated filters offer better efficiency. Electrostatic filters use static electricity to trap particles. When choosing a filter, consider your filtration needs, budget, and specific air quality concerns.

For summer in extremely hot climates, you should also consider air flow. Maximizing airflow through your evaporator will help the system operate more efficiently as it struggles to cool in temperatures reaching over 100-degrees. Choose a filter with a lower air filtration rating to increase air flow through the AC vents in summer.

2. Keep the Condensate Drain Line Clear

A clogged condensate drain line can shut down your AC, leaving you uncomfortable in the summer heat. Understanding how this happens and knowing the steps to keep your drain line clear can help you avoid this issue.

The condensate drain line removes excess moisture from the cooling process. Over time, it can clog with dirt, debris, or algae, blocking water flow. When this happens, water backs up and triggers a safety switch that shuts down the AC to prevent water damage.

Here’s a brief video that shows more information about the condensate drain:

To clean the condensate drain line, follow these steps:

1. Locate the condensate drain line, usually a white PVC pipe connected to the indoor unit.
2. Turn off the AC system's power for safety.
3. Remove the access cap from the drain line if it has one.
4. Pour 1 cup of liquid bleach into the drain line to kill snails, algae or mold.

Regularly cleaning your condensate drain line prevents clogs, ensuring smooth AC operation throughout the summer. If unsure about performing this task, seek professional HVAC assistance.

3. Clean the Air Conditioner’s Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils significantly impact your air conditioner's cooling performance. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, hindering their ability to release heat effectively. When dirty, the air conditioner works harder to cool your home, reducing energy efficiency and increasing energy bills.

To ensure optimal cooling performance, regularly clean the condenser coils. Follow these safe methods to avoid damaging the coils or other components:

1. Turn off the power: Before any maintenance, turn off the power at the main electrical panel.
2. Gently brush away debris: Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dirt, dust, and debris from the coils. Avoid bending or damaging the delicate fins.
3. Rinse with water: After removing loose debris, use a gentle stream of water from a garden hose to rinse away remaining dirt. Avoid high-pressure water as it may damage the coils.

Regular maintenance of the condenser coils is crucial for efficient AC operation. Keeping the coils clean improves cooling performance, increases energy efficiency, and extends the unit's lifespan.

Additional HVAC Tips for a Cool Summer

Beyond these top 3 AC maintenance tips for summer, consider these additional HVAC tips to keep your home cool:

• Set your thermostat to around 77-degrees during the summer for a balance between comfort and energy savings.
• Use a programmable thermostat to maximize energy efficiency.
• Ensure proper insulation and weatherstripping around windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping.
• Keep your AC unit clean and use ceiling fans for air circulation.
• Have a technician perform professional HVAC maintenance on your cooling system to keep it operating efficiently and lasting longer.

If your AC unit isn't working as expected, identifying common issues and resolving them can restore its efficiency. Common AC problems include lack of cooling, poor airflow, and strange noises. If you're facing these problems, try checking the thermostat settings, cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, and ensuring the condensate drain line is clear. For persistent issues, [schedule professional air conditioner repair service by Sears Home Services to keep your cooling system in top shape.