Keeping It Cool: The Ultimate Summer HVAC Tune Up Checklist

Did you know that the average U.S. household uses 12% of home energy costs on air conditioning? Those costs can increase during a heatwave or if you don’t take care of your HVAC system properly.

Following a summer HVAC tune-up checklist keeps your system running smoothly and efficiently to keep your home cooler and your energy bills lower. Most of the summer maintenance tasks are quick and easy enough for you to do yourself.

Keep reading to learn what you should do to maintain your HVAC system.

Change the Filter

One of the easiest and most crucial things you need to do to maintain your HVAC system is to change the filter. The filter works hard to pull out pet dander, dust, and other debris that end up in the HVAC system.

If you leave an old, dirty filter in your system, it can’t properly remove additional particles. It also takes more effort for air to move through the filter if it’s full of junk, which makes your HVAC system work harder.

You’ll need to change your filter at least once every 3 months, but it’s a good idea to do monthly checks to see if it’s dirty. Expect to change it more often if you have pets or live in a dusty area.

Clean Outdoor Unit

Head outdoors to do a summer cleanup of your condenser unit. A clean condenser unit can move air better than a dirty, clogged unit, which keeps your system more efficient. Shut off the power to the unit before you do any cleaning or maintenance.

Start by removing any large debris that’s on the unit. Trim shrubs, weeds, and other plants that have grown up around the condenser unit. Spray down the unit with your garden hose to get rid of dirt and other stuck-on debris.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Your DIY HVAC system tune-up is important throughout the year, but you also want an HVAC expert to do a professional tune-up at least a year. Professional air conditioning maintenance focuses on the mechanical components to ensure everything’s running well.

The technician checks electrical connections, drains, blower components, and moving parts. The tune-up involves lubricating moving parts, tightening components, and cleaning internal parts. It’s also a good time to catch potential air conditioner problems early and fix them before they become severe.

Follow the HVAC Tune-Up Checklist

Keeping this HVAC tune-up checklist in mind makes it easier to maintain your HVAC system. Most of the tasks are things you can do but don’t forget your yearly professional tune-up.

If you’re ready for professional HVAC maintenance, contact us to schedule an appointment.