From getting the grill out of the shed to filling up the pool, there are many important things to do before summer arrives. But when it comes to maximizing your comfort in the hot weather—especially indoors—there’s no task that is as important as maintaining your home’s cooling system. To ensure you stay cool all summer long, here are five maintenance tips that can help you avoid emergency air conditioner repairs throughout the season.  

5 Tips to Get Your AC Summer-Ready

1. Change the Air Filters

Over time, HVAC air filters become clogged with contaminants that can ruin your indoor air quality and force the system to work harder than it should. If you want to breathe easy, avoid excessive energy use, and prevent the need for air conditioner repairs, change the filters about once every 30 to 60 days.

2. Clean the Condensing Unit

Typically found outside the home, your HVAC’s condensing unit is responsible for pumping refrigerant through the system to cool the incoming air. To keep the unit functional, turn off the power source and remove the outermost panels. Remove any debris—such as leaves or twigs—and use a water solution to gently rinse away dirt from the condenser coils and fins.  Contact Oehl Plumbing and Heating so they can check the refrigerant levels, sub cooling levels and super heat levels. 

3. Inspect the Condensation Pan

When hot and cool temperatures meet, condensation tends to build up along the HVAC coils. This moisture drips into a condensation pan, which is usually located near the indoor unit. Failing to empty this can result in water damage, as well as mold growth.

4. Turn on the Thermostat

Once your HVAC system is clean and tuned-up, set the thermostat to cooling mode and turn it on. If your thermostat isn’t working or the air isn’t as cool as it should be, call an air conditioner repair specialist to identify and fix the underlying cause—such as bad wiring or blown fuses.

5. Look for Duct Leaks

When you’ve turned on the cooling system, take the time to feel around the ventilation system. If you notice any drafty spots, there may be a duct leak that needs to be sealed. In the short term, duct tape can help keep air from flowing through. For optimal energy efficiency, however, you’ll eventually want to call an air conditioner repair team to professionally seal the leak.

When you want to start summer off on the right foot, turn to the specialists at Oehl Plumbing, Heating, Electric, & Air Conditioning. Serving the Johnson County community for more than seven decades, this HVAC contractor will tune-up your equipment to ensure it runs efficiently—and keeps you cool all season long. If your system needs more than just routine maintenance, this team also offers 24-hour emergency air conditioner repairs and HVAC installations in Coralville, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City, IA. Visit this local business online to learn more about their services or call (319) 339-9490 to speak with a friendly specialist about your HVAC repair needs.