You depend on your air conditioning system to keep you cool and comfortable during the hottest periods of the year. But, for the appliance to work efficiently all summer long, it’s important to practice regular maintenance. There are several steps that all homeowners should take to protect its integrity. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Maintain Your AC in the Summer

1. Replace the Filter

It’s easy to neglect this step, largely because the air filter is something that you don’t look at very often. But it plays a significant role in your air conditioner’s functionality and efficiency. If it becomes blocked with dust and debris, then the unit has to work considerably harder to meet your desired temperature. By replacing it, you can restore sufficient airflow throughout the house and ensure that your AC doesn’t burn out or suffer premature failure.

2. Clean the Exterior

The exterior unit is consistently exposed to the elements, and during summer it may also be coated in more dirt, debris, and grass clippings than usual. Those pollutants can compromise the system’s efficiency and prevent it from extracting heat and cooling air properly. Take the time to gently dust the unit of debris. While your air conditioner repair contractor can clean the fins for you during a routine inspection, you can lightly brush them if you are concerned about the presence of excess debris.

3. Program the Thermostat

Modern “smart” thermostats are designed to save homeowners money by allowing you to set the air conditioning system to turn on and off at specific times of the day. When you leave the house, for example, you can time it to turn off and then back on when you’re about to arrive. According to the United States Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 10% on their summer cooling costs by raising the thermostat to 78°F when at home and a little bit higher when away. Programmable thermostats make it easy to stay within a reasonable range all season.

4. Call a Professional

It’s always best to have a professional inspect your air conditioning system before you start using it in earnest. They’ll inspect all of its vital components, check for refrigerant leaks, and make sure that the thermostat works properly. If any air conditioner repairs are necessary, they can tackle them before those problems have a chance to become more serious and costly.

Homeowners throughout Seattle, Auburn, and Tacoma, WA, trust in the qualified professionals at Universal Refrigeration for all of their heating and cooling needs. Specializing in air conditioning and furnace services, the company will make sure that your system is prepared to handle the season efficiently. In addition to air conditioner repairs and installation, they also offer 24-hour services when you need them the most. Visit them online, or call (253) 939-5501.