Preparing Your AC for Summer Heat: Professional Tips

Texas summers hit hard and fast. One day, you’re enjoying pleasant spring temperatures; the next, you’re reaching for the AC remote, wondering if it’ll keep up with the scorching heat. At Mansfield Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we see the same story every year: homeowners who wait until the first heatwave to discover their cooling system isn’t ready for the challenge.

Let’s face it – when temperatures climb into the triple digits, your air conditioner becomes the most important appliance in your home. But is it ready to perform when you need it most?

Why Pre-Summer AC Maintenance Matters

Think of your air conditioner like a car that’s been sitting in the garage all winter. You wouldn’t expect it to hit the highway at top performance without a check-up first, right?

Your AC system has been mostly dormant during cooler months, and now you’re asking it to run at full capacity for hours on end. Without proper preparation, this sudden demand can lead to:

• Reduced cooling capacity when you need it most
• Higher energy bills from inefficient operation
• Unexpected breakdowns during peak heat
• Shortened system lifespan

A well-maintained AC unit uses 15-20% less energy than a neglected one. That’s money staying in your pocket while keeping your home more comfortable.

7 Professional Tips to Get Your AC Summer-Ready

Let’s walk through the essential steps to prepare your cooling system before temperatures soar:

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters

This is the simplest yet most important maintenance task you can do yourself. Dirty filters block airflow, making your system work harder while delivering less cooling.

Pro tip: Check your filter monthly during summer. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones when they show visible dirt accumulation. This simple habit can improve efficiency by up to 15%.

2. Clear Space Around Your Outdoor Unit

Your AC’s outdoor condenser needs proper airflow to release heat efficiently. After spring, it’s common to find the unit surrounded by:

• Overgrown vegetation
• Lawn debris and leaves
• Dirt and dust buildup

Pro tip: Clear at least 2 feet of space around all sides of your outdoor unit. Gently remove debris from the exterior fins, being careful not to bend them.

3. Clean Condenser Coils

Over time, your condenser coils collect dirt, pollen, and grime. Heat transfer becomes less efficient when these coils get dirty, and your system struggles to cool your home.

Pro tip: For light cleaning, rinse the unit’s exterior with a gentle stream from your garden hose (never use a pressure washer). For thorough cleaning, schedule professional maintenance with our team.

4. Check and Seal Ductwork

Up to 30% of cooled air can escape through leaky ducts before reaching your living spaces, wasting energy and reducing comfort.

Pro tip: Inspect visible ductwork for obvious gaps, and consider professional duct sealing for maximum efficiency. Pay special attention to connections and seams.

5. Test Your System Before You Need It

Don’t wait until temperatures hit 95°F to discover problems. Run your system on a mild day to ensure everything works properly.

Pro tip: Listen for unusual noises, check that air flowing from vents is cool, and monitor whether the system cycles properly. Address any issues before the heat arrives.

6. Upgrade Your Thermostat

An outdated thermostat can waste energy and provide less comfort. Smart or programmable thermostats optimize cooling based on your schedule and preferences.

Pro tip: Program higher temperatures when you’re away and cooler temperatures just before you return home. This simple adjustment can save up to 10% annually on cooling costs.

7. Schedule Professional Maintenance

While DIY steps help, nothing replaces a comprehensive professional inspection. Our certified technicians perform a thorough evaluation, including:

• Checking refrigerant levels
• Testing electrical components and connections
• Lubricating moving parts
• Cleaning internal components
• Calibrating thermostat operation
• Inspecting condensate drainage systems

Pro tip: Schedule maintenance in spring before the summer rush. Early appointments are easier to book, and you’ll have time to address any issues before extreme heat arrives.

Common Summer AC Issues and How to Prevent Them

Problem: AC Runs Constantly Without Adequate Cooling

This common issue typically stems from:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Dirty coils
• Inadequate maintenance
• System undersizing

Prevention: Regular maintenance catches refrigerant issues early. Keep coils clean, replace filters regularly, and ensure your system is properly sized for your home.

Problem: Rising Energy Bills

When cooling costs spike suddenly, check for:

• Dirty filters restrict airflow
• Thermostat settings that are too low
• Leaky ducts are losing cooled air
• Deteriorating insulation

Prevention: Maintain clean filters, set reasonable temperatures (78°F is recommended when home), seal ductwork, and consider adding insulation in problem areas.

Problem: System Freezing Up

Ice on cooling components signals:

• Airflow restrictions
• Refrigerant issues
• Mechanical failures

Prevention: Change filters regularly, ensure vents aren’t blocked, and have refrigerant levels checked during maintenance visits.

When to Call the Professionals

While some maintenance tasks are DIY-friendly, certain situations warrant professional attention:

• Any refrigerant issues (leaks, recharging)
• Electrical problems or component failures
• Unusual noises or odors
• Water leaks or drainage problems
• System not cooling despite basic troubleshooting

Our experienced technicians at Mansfield Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air have the specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and resolve these issues safely and effectively.

Prepare Now for a Comfortable Summer

The best time to prepare your AC for summer is before you need it daily. Taking preventive steps now ensures your system will perform reliably when temperatures soar.

Remember, a well-maintained air conditioner:

• Cools more effectively
• Uses less energy
• Lasts longer
• Provides better indoor air quality
• Requires fewer emergency repairs

Don’t wait until the midst of a heatwave to discover your system isn’t ready. Contact our team today to schedule your pre-summer AC maintenance and ensure your home stays comfortable all season long.

Ready for Expert AC Service?

At Mansfield Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air, we provide comprehensive AC maintenance, repair, and installation services throughout the Mansfield area. Our certified technicians take pride in keeping your home comfortable during even the hottest Texas days.

Contact us today at (817) 823-7239 or email [email protected] to schedule your AC tune-up and beat the summer heat!