Now that spring is here, and the hot weather is soon to follow, it's time to get your air conditioner ready for summer. To help you do that, Dave's Cooling Heating & Plumbing, an experienced AC repair service in Staunton, VA, provides the following tips to prepare your HVAC system for warmer weather. Below, they outline what you should do to get your AC ready for the heat.

How to Get Your Air Conditioning System Ready for Summer

1. Replace Filters

When the filter is clogged, it puts a strain on your system and makes it work harder than it should. To put off the need for expensive AC repairs, be sure to replace the old, dirty filter with a clean, new one before firing up the system for the first time this year. For best results, switch it out with a fresh one every 60 to 90 days, or more frequently if you smoke or have pets.

2. Clean the Condensate Line

The condensate line removes the moisture caused by condensation that occurs when damp air meets the cold metal of the evaporator coil. This line can become clogged with dust or debris and leads to pooling water, mold, and mildew. Clean it with a bleach solution every spring to prevent clogs. A good AC repair service will do this for you if you schedule a spring tuneup.

3.  Clean the Outdoor Coils

Inspect the coils of your outdoor unit and remove debris, twigs, dust, and foliage so the air conditioner can rid itself of heat efficiently. Also make sure all other objects—boxes, lawn furniture, plant matter, etc.—are at least two feet from the condenser unit, so the intake and outtake vents are not blocked.

To operate at peak efficiency during the long, hot summer, your AC unit needs a bit of attention each spring. If maintenance is not your forte, contact Dave's Cooling Heating & Plumbing, the premier plumber and AC repair service in Staunton, VA, for help. They've served homes and businesses throughout the region for more than 30 years and have countless success stories under their belt. Visit their Facebook page to connect with them online or call (540) 942-4357 to speak with an experienced HVAC contractor.