Summer brings the heat, so it’s time to turn your AC back on. However, don’t rush to switch on the cool air just yet. The winter and spring seasons can cause various issues with your air conditioner that could cost more if you don’t catch them early. This article is your guide to pre-summer inspections for your air conditioner unit and when to seek AC maintenance.

Clean and Inspect the Outdoor Unit

The first step is to venture outdoors, remove the cover from your outdoor unit, and inspect it, especially the area around the condenser. Removing debris near the condenser prevents obstructions and inefficiency. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can cause your air conditioner to overwork, leading to potential damage and costly AC repairs. 

Check the area surrounding your outdoor unit and inspect electrical connections to ensure they are secure and intact. Trimming back bushes near the AC unit is also advisable to minimize debris falling into it daily. Since the outdoor unit is exposed to more debris and weather conditions, starting here with your system assessment is vital — then move indoors!

Check Ducts, Vents, and Air Filters

Your duct system and vents create the pathway through which clean, temperature-controlled air moves into your home. Over time, they collect dust and debris, which, if not removed, deteriorate your indoor air quality. Ensure vents aren’t obstructed to guarantee proper airflow and even temperatures from room to room. It’s also essential to check and replace clogged filters to preserve healthy air quality and avoid overworking your air conditioner unit.

Your HVAC system is more than the AC unit itself. It relies on this network of ducts and ventilation grates to function correctly and efficiently. A clean system not only improves indoor comfort and healthy air quality but also prevents energy bill spikes and future damage.

Conduct AC Tests

Once you’ve inspected the outdoor unit and cleaned the network of ducts and ventilation grates, it’s time for a test! Switch on your AC unit and pay attention to its start-up routine. If there are foul odors, inconsistent temperatures, or strange noises, switch your AC unit off to prevent damage or air quality deterioration. These signs may indicate problems that require an expert AC maintenance technician.

However, if your AC unit runs smoothly and expels consistently cool air, you can leave it and let it run. Enjoy your cool, comfortable summer season in Southern California — but don’t forget to periodically check and clean your system to maintain peak efficiency.

Schedule Annual AC Maintenance

If you notice persistent issues during your AC test or in the following days, schedule AC maintenance with a professional technician. They can inspect and test your system with advanced tools that can identify subtle issues, electrical misfires, or connection problems. Air conditioner repair professionals can also provide thorough solutions, restoring your home comfort during those SoCal heat waves!

Annual maintenance is critical for maintaining an efficient AC unit. These yearly tune-ups are often scheduled during seasonal changes to ensure your system is ready for the demands of the incoming season. If you want to maximize your HVAC system’s potential, the expert technicians at ProFlo can provide seasonal maintenance to keep your air conditioner running optimally. Call us today at 951-694-1300 or contact us online for a free quote.