The summer is a nice break from those cold Ohio winters. You get to spend more time outside, enjoying nature, and taking hikes. But when you’re coming in from a jog or playing with the kids in the backyard, you want your air conditioner running reliably to cool you off throughout the entire season. 

What Are Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips for Summer?

1. Invest in Preventative Care

The summer is a busy time for HVAC contractors. If your air conditioner fails, you might wait for hours or days in a sweltering home before a repairman arrives. Have your AC inspected in the spring, so technicians can make minor repairs before they become significant problems. 

2. Change Your Filters

Your AC’s air filters prevent contaminants and allergens from getting into your home. However, over time, they’ll become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris. Clogged filters slow airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home. This puts a strain on the entire unit and decreases its life span. Your air quality will also decrease due to clogged filters, which can cause asthma attacks and allergy flareups. 

When you should change your filter depends on several factors, including the size and location of your home, if you have pets, and if you’re prone to allergies. 

3. Upgrade Your System

Upgrading to a smart thermostat will make your HVAC system run more efficiently and decrease your utility bills throughout the year. 

Once installed, a smart thermostat will learn your schedule and patterns. It will run your air conditioner ahead of your arrival from work, so you can enjoy a cool home from the moment you walk through the door. The thermostat can also be programmed to run at different times, so you’re only using your AC when you need it the most. 

Smart thermostats also monitor the temperature outside and make adjustments accordingly, so that your home is comfortable and the HVAC unit doesn’t expend unnecessary energy. 

4. Notice Warning Signs 

Your air conditioner will be under a lot of stress over the summer. To prevent breakdowns, reach out to an HVAC contractor if it starts showing signs of trouble.

If the unit is making unusually loud noises, the belt could be broken, or the ignition is faulty.

Your AC runs in cycles, but if they’re becoming too frequent, the thermostat, wiring, or ignition might need to be repaired. 

Be mindful of your utility bills over the summer. If there are substantial increases, your air conditioner might be running inefficiently. Reach out to a contractor for repairs or a replacement. 

Whether you need repairs or a new air conditioner this summer, Alpine Heating & Cooling is here to help. For nearly 30 years, their technicians have kept the residents of Dundee, OH, comfortable all year long. As authorized Armstrong Air® dealers, they provide the highest quality equipment without breaking your budget. For more information on their comprehensive HVAC services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, reach out to them at (330) 359-7114.