Oklahoma City summers bring intense heat and high humidity, making your HVAC system work harder to keep your home cool. Preparing your system ahead of the summer months is essential to ensure reliable performance, lower energy costs, and prevent breakdowns. With proper preventative maintenance, cleaning, and repair, you can keep your system running smoothly and enjoy a comfortable home all season long.
Why Preparing Your HVAC System Matters
A well-maintained HVAC system for summer can handle the demands of peak summer heat without forcing the system to work harder than necessary. If neglected, your air conditioning system may suffer reduced efficiency, poor indoor air quality, and costly repairs. Regular HVAC maintenance, including cleaning and inspection, extends the life of your HVAC system and ensures your home stays cool this summer.
Replace or Clean the Air Filter
Your air filter plays a critical role in maintaining airflow, air quality, and system efficiency. Air filters are essential to block dust, pollen, and other particles that can clog your system. Dirty or clogged filters force your AC unit to work harder to cool your home, increasing energy costs. To keep your HVAC system running smoothly:
- Inspect your air filter monthly during the summer months.
- Replace air filters every 1–3 months, or clean reusable ones.
- Use high-quality filters for better indoor air quality.
Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
The condenser unit requires proper airflow to function efficiently. Over time, debris like leaves, dirt, and grass can block airflow around the unit, causing it to work harder to cool your home.
Maintenance tips:
- Turn off power before cleaning.
- Remove debris from around the unit, keeping at least 2–3 feet of clearance.
- Clean condenser coils with a garden hose.
This simple cleaning step helps your AC maintenance efforts and prolongs the life of your HVAC system.
Check Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat is key to ensuring your HVAC system runs efficiently. Incorrect thermostat settings can make your system work harder to cool, increasing energy bills.
- Test the thermostat before peak summer heat.
- Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat or smart thermostat for energy savings.
- Set thermostat settings for comfort and efficiency.
Inspect and Clean Air Ducts and Vents
Air ducts and vents directly affect system efficiency and indoor air quality. Dirty air ducts can restrict airflow, cause hot air pockets, and reduce cooling system performance.
- Schedule professional duct cleaning for improved airflow.
- Ensure vents are open and unobstructed.
- Seal any leaks in ducts to avoid forcing the system to work harder.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant in your air conditioning system can lead to warm air from vents and damage to the compressor. Only a professional HVAC technician should inspect and refill refrigerant. Signs you may have low refrigerant include:
- Ice on coils.
- Weak airflow.
- Longer cooling cycles.
Test the System Ahead of the Summer
Testing your HVAC system ahead of the summer allows you to catch problems early. Run your AC on a warm spring day and check for:
- Unusual noises.
- Uneven cooling.
- Strange odors.
If issues arise, schedule a professional HVAC tune-up before the summer heat.
Professional vs. DIY Maintenance
Some HVAC needs can be addressed at home, but others require expert HVAC service.
DIY tasks:
- Replace air filters.
- Clean around the unit.
- Check thermostat settings.
Professional tasks:
- Coil cleaning.
- Refrigerant checks.
- Electrical inspections.
A professional HVAC technician ensures your unit needs are met safely and keeps your system running efficiently all summer long.
