How to Get Your Air Conditioning System Ready for the Summer
As the winter chill begins to fade across the Fox Valley and springtime brings those first warm days, it’s time to think about preparing your air conditioning system for the summer heat. At Modern HVAC, we know that Wisconsin summers can bring unexpected heat waves and humidity, and the last thing you want is to discover your AC unit isn’t working properly during the first hot spell.
Follow these essential steps to ensure your cooling system is ready to keep your home comfortable all summer long!
1. Replace or Clean Air Filters
One of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks is replacing or cleaning your air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing your system’s efficiency and potentially causing it to work harder than necessary. This not only increases your energy bills, but without being addressed, it can even shorten the lifespan of your unit.
Pro-tip: Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones every 1-3 months, depending on usage, pets, and allergies. If you’re unsure about the right filter type for your system, the technicians at Modern HVAC can help!
2. Clear Debris Around Outdoor Units
Wisconsin winters and spring storms can leave debris around your outdoor condenser unit. Leaves, sticks, grass clippings, and other yard waste can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency.
Pro-tip: Clear at least 2 feet of space around your outdoor unit. You’ll want to gently remove debris from the exterior fins, being careful not to bend them. Trim back any bushes or plants that might restrict airflow.
3. Check and Clean Condenser Coils
Over time, your condenser coils will collect dirt and grime, especially after sitting unused through our long Fox Valley winters. Dirty coils force your system to work harder to transfer heat.
Pro-tip: For light cleaning, you can rinse the exterior of the unit with a gentle stream from your garden hose (never use a pressure washer). For a more thorough cleaning, Modern HVAC’s professional maintenance team can perform a specialized coil cleaning that won’t damage the delicate fins.
4. Inspect Refrigerant Lines
The refrigerant lines running from your outdoor air conditioning unit to your home should be properly insulated to ensure efficiency. Check these lines for damaged insulation or signs of wear.
Pro-tip: If you notice damaged insulation or potential refrigerant leaks (oil spots near connections), call us immediately. Refrigerant issues require professional attention and are crucial to your system’s operation.
5. Test Your A/C Unit Before You Need It
Don’t wait until temperatures soar into the 80s to discover problems with your cooling system. You should test your air conditioner on a mild day to ensure everything is working properly.
Pro-tip: Run your system for at least 30 minutes, checking that air flowing from your vents is cool and that the system cycles properly. Listen for unusual noises that might indicate problems.
6. Check and Calibrate Your Thermostat
An improperly calibrated thermostat can cause your system to run inefficiently or not maintain comfortable temperatures.
Pro-tip: If you have an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model. Modern thermostats can significantly reduce energy costs while improving comfort. Our air conditioning technicians can recommend options that work with your existing system and install them properly.
7. Clean the Vents and Ductwork
After a winter of running your heating system, dust and allergens can accumulate in your ductwork and vents. This affects both air quality and system efficiency.
Pro-tip: Remove and clean accessible vent covers. For ductwork cleaning, Modern HVAC offers professional services that remove built-up dust, allergens, and other contaminants that have accumulated over the winter months.
8. Schedule Professional Maintenance on Your A/C Unit
If you are comfortable with DIY maintenance and troubleshooting of your air conditioning unit, please read our article here on air conditioning maintenance tips you should know.
While DIY steps can help maintain your system, nothing replaces a professional inspection and tune-up. Our Fox Cities customers who schedule regular maintenance experience fewer breakdowns, lower energy bills, and longer system lifespans.
Pro-tip: Schedule your spring maintenance appointment before the summer rush. Our inspections include:
- System control checks
- Electrical connection tightening
- Moving parts lubrication
- Condensate drain inspection
- Refrigerant level check
- Component by component inspection
Related: Air Conditioning Troubleshooting Guide
The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Your Air Conditioning System
Northeast Wisconsin climate presents specific challenges for cooling systems. From humidity control during summer storms to handling the stop-and-start demands of unpredictable spring and fall weather, your air conditioner needs to be in top condition to perform efficiently.
Preventive maintenance not only ensures comfort but also:
- Reduces energy costs by up to 15%
- Extends equipment life by several years
- Prevents costly emergency repairs
- Maintains manufacturer warranty requirements
- Improves indoor air quality
Contact Us to Help Get Your Air Conditioning Ready for the Summer!
Don’t wait until the summer heat arrives to discover problems with your cooling system. Modern HVAC has been serving Neenah and the Fox Cities area for years with reliable, professional service.
Schedule your pre-summer A/C inspection today. To get started with your air conditioning installation, repair, replacement, or maintenance service, please give the Modern Sheet Metal team a call at (920) 733-4713 or an email at info@modernhvac.com.
Our air conditioning technicians are Carrier-certified professionals! Whether you have a central air system, ductless mini-split, or heat pump, we have the expertise to keep your system running at peak efficiency all summer long!