Now that spring is here in Louisiana, you’ll be turning on your air conditioning a little sooner than other parts of the country. To ensure your home stays comfortable throughout the coming seasons, it’s important to perform some preseason maintenance. Before you switch on your cooling system, follow these three steps. 

3 Tips for Preparing Your AC for Summer

1. Inspect Your Filter

An air filter clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris forces your AC to work harder, increasing the risk of breakdowns. It also allows dust and allergens to enter your home’s air and threaten your family’s health. Keep your air clean and your AC functional by inspecting the filter at least once every three months and replacing it when it’s dirty. 

2. Clean Your Outdoor Unit 

After using refrigerant to absorb heat, your AC’s indoor unit transfers the refrigerant to the outdoor compressor to release the heat so the refrigerant can cool. However, a dirty outside unit will have trouble releasing the heat, which forces your air conditioning to work harder to cool your home.

To keep your AC running efficiently, spray water on a gentle setting to clean the outside unit of dirt, leaves, and other debris. Help it stay clean by regularly cleaning around it and trimming nearby bushes.

3. Clean Your Air Ducts

Since your AC recycles air that travels through the ducts, it’s important to remove dust and dirt from these exit points. Otherwise, that debris will circulate through your home and increase the risk of allergies.

Simply shut off the power connected to your HVAC system, unscrew the vent covers, and clean the grates with a brush, soap, and water. For a deeper clean, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clear out the first foot or two inside each duct.

The best way to prepare your air conditioning unit for the summer is to schedule professional maintenance. The team at Smith Air Conditioning provides comprehensive inspections and repairs throughout Acadiana. Based in Ville Platte, LA, the family-owned company has been installing and servicing residential and commercial HVAC systems for nearly 60 years. Using state-of-the-art equipment, they’ll ensure your AC is more than ready to beat the Southern heat and humidity. Learn more about their services online and call (337) 363-1866 for a free estimate.