When you live on the Delaware shore, you never want to be caught on a busy summer weekend with a house full of guests and a broken A/C system. That’s why it’s important to prepare your A/C for a long, hot summer. Fortunately, the experts at Alltemp Air are here to guide you through the steps of getting your home’s air conditioner ready for summer so you can stay cool and comfortable no matter how hot it gets outside.
Start With Clearing Away Debris
It might sound simple, but cleaning is one of the most important steps in getting your A/C system ready for summer. After all, it’s likely that your unit has been sitting idle or running minimally during the cooler months. When an A/C system hasn’t been used frequently, debris can accumulate around the outdoor condenser unit. Leaves, branches, and dirt buildup can clog the components and force your system to work harder than necessary. Before the heat ramps up, make sure to clear away any obstructions from around the outdoor unit.
Replace or Clean the Air Filters
Don’t forget about the system’s indoor components. Clean or replace your air filters, wipe down vents, and ensure your registers aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs. Not only does this help improve efficiency, but it also improves your home’s indoor air quality.
Check the Thermostat and Settings
Take a few moments to test your thermostat to make sure it’s responding properly. Consider programming it to maintain comfortable temperatures during peak hours and reduce usage when the home is vacant. This not only saves energy but also reduces unnecessary wear on your system, especially when preparing your A/C for summer’s extended use.
Do you still have the same thermostat from over a decade ago? If so, it might be time to make some changes. Smart thermostats are a great addition to any home, especially if it’s a second residence that isn’t always occupied. With remote access, you can monitor and adjust the temperature, maximizing your savings and improving your home’s efficiency.
Have Your Ductwork Professionally Cleaned
Over time, dust, pollen, and pet dander can accumulate inside your ducts, circulating throughout your home and straining your A/C system. By scheduling a professional duct cleaning before the summer heat hits, you can make sure your system operates at peak efficiency and doesn’t exacerbate your loved one’s allergies.
An expert technician will use high-powered vacuums and specialized brushes to carefully remove accumulated dust and debris from the entire duct system. The result will be cleaner air and better airflow.
Seal Any Leaks or Drafts
Sometimes, it’s not the A/C unit itself that causes inefficiencies — it’s the house. If cool air is leaking out through gaps in windows or doors, your system will work harder than it needs to. This is particularly true for older homes, which may have drafty spots or aging seals that let in warm, humid air.
Before the peak of summer arrives, walk through your home and feel for drafts. Weatherstripping, caulking, and insulation can go a long way in keeping your home sealed up tight.
Consider a Dehumidifier
Homeowners living along the Delaware shore are all too familiar with humidity, and they know that excess moisture can do a number on their home’s comfort and their air conditioner’s efficiency. The good news is that there’s a solution to combatting this excess moisture. A whole-house dehumidifier can help maintain ideal humidity levels, making your home feel cooler and reducing the strain on your air conditioner. It also protects your home from issues like mold, mildew, and warping wood.
Test the System Before Peak Season Hits
Have you turned your A/C on yet this year? Don’t wait until the first heat wave rolls through. The best time to test your system is during mild weather, when you can identify and resolve any issues before they become urgent.
Run the system for a full cooling cycle and pay attention to how it sounds, how long it takes to cool the house, and whether it’s reaching the set temperature. Any odd noises, weak airflow, or inconsistent cooling could be a sign that your system needs attention. Catching these problems early gives you time to get everything running smoothly before summer really begins.
Schedule a Pre-Season Tune-Up
Avoid the disaster of a broken-down heat pump on the first hot weekend of the summer by scheduling a professional tune-up before the season really heats up. A trained technician can spot potential problems and make adjustments to help your unit run more efficiently.
The professional will check refrigerant levels, calibrate the thermostat, inspect electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, test airflow, and so much more — all in an effort to combat the constant pressure your system is put under. Prioritizing A/C maintenance is a small investment that can make a big difference in keeping your home cool all summer long.
Call Alltemp Air for Help Preparing Your A/C System for Summer
Since 1994, Alltemp Air has proudly served the Delaware shore with professional HVAC services tailored to our region’s climate. If you’re ready to prepare your A/C for summer, we’re here to help with everything from seasonal tune-ups and system inspections to air conditioning repairs and replacements. Contact us today and let us help keep your home cool and comfortable all season long.
