5 Steps to Get Your AC Ready for Spring Weather

As spring approaches in Aurora, preparing your air conditioner for the seasonal transition is a smart move to ensure uninterrupted comfort and efficiency. The change in weather means your AC unit will soon be relied upon to maintain a cool and inviting home environment. By taking proactive steps now, you can help prevent unwanted breakdowns and ensure your system runs smoothly when you need it most.

Proactive maintenance not only extends the life of your AC unit but also boosts its efficiency. This can lead to a more comfortable living space and may even help reduce energy costs. As temperatures rise, addressing potential issues beforehand will give you peace of mind knowing your system is ready to tackle the warmer months. Let’s explore some key steps to get your AC prepared for spring.

Check and Replace Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most important tasks in AC maintenance is checking and replacing the air filters. Clean air filters allow for better airflow, improving your system’s performance and ensuring cleaner indoor air. When air filters are clogged with dust and debris, your AC has to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and potential wear and tear.

Here’s a straightforward guide to handling your air filters:

• Switch off the power: Before starting, make sure your AC unit is turned off. This is an essential safety step.
• Locate the filter: Check your AC unit’s manual or the AC covers to find the location of the filter.
• Inspect the filter: Hold the filter up to the light. If you can’t see much light coming through, it’s time for a replacement.
• Replace if needed: Purchase a replacement filter compatible with your unit. Insert the new filter, following the directional arrows for airflow.
• Schedule regular checks: To keep your system running efficiently, aim to check and replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.

Regularly changing your air filters is a quick task that makes a big impact on your AC’s efficiency and effectiveness. By maintaining clean filters, you help ensure consistent airflow and healthier indoor air quality.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

After taking care of the air filters, it’s time to turn your attention to the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, and it’s common for leaves, dirt, and debris to accumulate around it. This buildup can block airflow and reduce the system’s efficiency.

To keep your AC’s outdoor unit functioning optimally, follow these steps:

• Power off the unit: Always ensure the power is off before performing any maintenance work.
• Remove debris: Use a garden hose to gently wash away dirt, leaves, and other debris from the unit’s exterior. Make sure the area is clear and unobstructed.
• Check the fins: Inspect the cooling fins for any bent or damaged areas. If needed, gently straighten them using a fin comb to promote better airflow.
• Ensure adequate airflow: Make sure there are at least two feet of clearance around the unit to allow proper airflow. Trim back any plants or shrubs that may be growing too close.

By keeping the outdoor unit clean and unobstructed, you help ensure your AC functions efficiently as spring arrives. This simple care can contribute to a longer lifespan and better performance of your air conditioning system, providing a comfortable indoor climate during the warmer months.

Check Thermostat Settings

As the spring weather begins to warm up, it’s a good time to revisit your thermostat settings. An efficient thermostat setting can significantly impact your home’s comfort and energy consumption. Make sure your thermostat is set to a temperature that balances comfort with efficiency—aim for a moderate temperature that doesn’t overwork your AC unit.

Consider using a programmable thermostat if you don’t have one already. This type of thermostat allows you to set specific times to increase or decrease the temperature, aligning with your daily schedule. For instance, you can set it to a higher temperature when you’re not at home and have it cool down the house right before you arrive. This simple adjustment can reduce unnecessary energy use and extend your AC’s lifespan over time.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Service

Regularly scheduling a professional maintenance service is a proactive measure that keeps your AC performing at its best. Our professionals have the expertise to conduct detailed inspections and maintenance tasks that are crucial for your system’s health. During a maintenance visit, technicians typically check refrigerant levels to ensure your AC is cooling efficiently and inspect electrical components to avoid potential safety issues. 

Other tasks may include lubricating moving parts to prevent wear, tightening electrical connections to ensure safe operation, and cleaning condenser coils to boost efficiency. These professional checks help catch issues early and prevent unexpected breakdowns during peak usage. Professional maintenance not only enhances the performance of your AC but also prolongs its operational life, maintaining your home’s comfort through the spring and summer.

Ensure Proper Insulation and Sealing

Proper insulation and sealing are essential to maximizing your AC’s efficiency. If your home lacks adequate insulation, your AC has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills and increased strain on the unit.

To check and improve your home’s insulation:

• Inspect windows and doors: Look for any gaps or drafts around windows and doors and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas.
• Check insulation in the attic: Ensure your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat from penetrating into living spaces.
• Review ductwork: Check for leaks in the ductwork and have them sealed if necessary to avoid losing cool air.

These steps help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce the workload on your AC system. Improving insulation and sealing can lead to cost savings on your energy bills and enhance your overall home comfort.

CoNCLUSION

Getting your AC ready for spring is all about preparation and preventive care. By taking these steps, you not only improve the efficiency and performance of your AC but also extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance and proactive checks can help avoid costly repairs and provide peace of mind as the temperatures rise.

Whether it’s adjusting thermostat settings, ensuring proper seal and insulation, or scheduling a professional maintenance service, these actions contribute to a comfortable and efficient living space. Don’t overlook the benefits of having your AC in top shape as spring arrives. Take action now to enjoy the best performance from your air conditioning system in Aurora.

If you are ready to reap the benefits of regular upkeep and ensure your AC runs smoothly this spring, learn more about AC maintenance in Aurora and take action today. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.