Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

Every year, the first real heat wave catches homeowners off guard. The air conditioner has been sitting idle for months, and when you finally flip it on, nothing happens. Or worse, it runs but blows warm air.

A little preparation in the spring goes a long way toward keeping your home comfortable all summer. Here are five things you can do now to avoid a breakdown when temperatures climb.

1. Replace Your Air Filter

This is the simplest and most overlooked maintenance task. A dirty filter restricts airflow, makes your system work harder, and drives up your energy bill. It can also shorten the life of your equipment.

Check your filter every 30 days and replace it at least every 90 days. If you have pets, allergies, or a dusty home, change it monthly. A clean filter is cheap and takes less than a minute to swap out.

2. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

Over the fall and winter, leaves, branches, and debris tend to pile up around your outdoor condenser unit. Before you start using your cooling system, take a few minutes to clear away anything within two feet of the unit on all sides.

Good airflow around the condenser is critical for efficient operation. If vegetation has grown up around it, trim it back. If the fins on the unit look bent or clogged, a gentle rinse with a garden hose can help, but be careful not to use high pressure.

3. Test Your System Before You Need It

Do not wait for the first 85-degree day to turn on your air conditioner. Run it for 15 to 20 minutes on a mild day and pay attention. Is cool air coming from the vents? Are there any unusual sounds? Does it cycle on and off normally?

Testing early gives you time to schedule a repair before the summer rush, when HVAC companies across the area are booked out for weeks.

4. Check Your Thermostat

If your thermostat uses batteries, replace them. If you have an older manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model. A programmable thermostat lets you set different temperatures for when you are home, away, and asleep, which can save you 10 to 15 percent on cooling costs without any effort.

Make sure the thermostat is reading the correct temperature and that the cooling mode engages properly when you lower the set point.

5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Even if everything seems to be working fine, an annual tune-up catches small problems before they become expensive repairs. A trained technician will inspect electrical connections, check refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and verify that everything is operating within manufacturer specifications.

Our Peace of Mind Comfort and Safety Program includes annual tune-ups along with priority scheduling and discounts on repairs. It is the easiest way to keep your system running reliably year after year.

Ready to get your system summer-ready? Call Carlson's Heating and Air at 360-425-4888 or request service online. We will make sure your cooling system is ready before the heat arrives.