As temperatures rise, you’ll rely more frequently on your air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. But before you turn the unit on, it’s a good idea to prepare it for the months ahead by taking a few proactive steps. Doing so now could prevent troublesome AC repairs later in the season. Here’s what you need to know.

Preparing Your AC for Springtime Use

1. Check the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit could easily become littered with dirt and debris, such as twigs, leaves, dirt, branches, and grass clippings. Take the time to brush all of this away before you turn on the system. Be sure to check the condenser coils, too, as these may also be dirty. That could compromise the unit’s efficiency by forcing it to work harder than necessary to meet your desired indoor temperature. There should be at least a foot of space in each direction to prevent vegetation from growing too close. Avoid mulching in the vicinity of the unit, as proper airflow is key to preventing AC repairs.

2. Replace the Air Filter

It’s easy to neglect this step, especially if you haven’t used the system for months. But replacing the air filter at least once every two to three months promotes proper air circulation inside the home, ensures cleaner indoor air quality, and prevents the system from working overtime to cool the house. That’s key if you want to avoid unnecessary AC repairs and maintain the system’s life expectancy.

3. Call an HVAC Company

For more intensive maintenance, it’s best to have an HVAC company technician inspect the system thoroughly. They’ll clean it thoroughly and make sure that the air conditioner’s vital components, like the condenser, fan motors, and compressor, are all working properly. Performing any necessary repairs early in the season will prevent you from dealing with sudden breakdowns on the hottest days of the year.

Is your air conditioning system prepared to tackle rising temperatures? Turn to the experts at Ogeechee Heating & Air in Claxton, GA. Proudly serving homeowners and businesses throughout southeast GA, these AC and heating contractors are committed to your satisfaction. They perform everything from AC repairs to basic inspections to ensure that your home is as comfortable as it can be year round. Visit the HVAC company online to learn about these and other services, or call (912) 764-8173 to schedule an appointment.