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The Ultimate HVAC Checklist To Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

Dallas-Fort Worth summers are unbearably hot. Air conditioning breakdowns can be dangerous, especially when the indoor temperature can exceed 90 degrees, at which point you’d need to evacuate your home.

Fortunately, you can take several simple actions to prepare your AC for summer and prevent risk to yourself or your family members. Taking these steps means your unit can perform at its best right away when the hot days hit and endure the workload throughout the entire season.

1. Replace Your Air Filter

Routinely replacing your air filter reduces strain on your air conditioner and ensures clean air circulates through your home.

We recommend installing a new filter before summer is in full swing so your air conditioner can operate at full power and energy efficiency.

You should change your air filter at least every three months as part of ongoing HVAC maintenance. Check your air filter monthly to ensure it’s in good condition. If it looks dirty, replace it. 

2. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Trim back landscaping at least 2 feet from your outdoor AC unit to prevent leaves and other debris from entering the unit. You can also spray the unit down with a garden hose to remove any existing dirt and debris.

Cleaning your outdoor unit allows your air conditioner to run easily and prevents extra wear and tear on components, such as the evaporator and condenser coils.

3. Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks through outer walls, windows, doors, and other openings waste energy and increase utility costs.

You can seal air leaks with a weatherproof caulk for leaks smaller than a quarter-inch. For larger gaps, use expandable foam spray.

This task may sound intimidating, but it’s fairly easy and can help significantly reduce your utility bills. 

4. Test Your Air Conditioner

Run a test cycle to see if your cooling system runs properly. Let your AC run for an hour or so, ensuring your home’s temperature matches the thermostat setting.

While it’s running, listen for unusual sounds, smells, or any other signs of malfunction from the unit or vents.

5. Schedule Routine AC Maintenance

The best way to prepare your air conditioner for summer is to schedule routine AC maintenance with a trusted home services company.

Licensed HVAC technicians are trained to:

• Provide preventative service
• Clean debris that can inhibit cooling function
• Inspect for underlying problems
• Recommend any necessary air conditioning repairs

Keep Your Air Conditioner in Top Condition With Service From AirCo

Following this checklist will get your AC ready for a hot summer in Dallas-Fort Worth. At AirCo, we offer all the air conditioning services you need to ensure your AC stays strong throughout the entire cooling season.

Sign up for our maintenance plan to automate your HVAC maintenance. As an All Star Club member, you’ll receive:

• Two tune-ups per year
• A 10% discount on accessories, repairs, and services
• A lifetime repair guarantee
• Priority scheduling
• Members-only special offers
• A VIP phone number

Contact AirCo online or call (817) 591-1225 to request air conditioning maintenance in the DFW Metroplex and become an All Star Club member.