Don’t Let Summer Heat Catch You Off Guard: Your Essential Spring AC Maintenance Checklist for 2024

As spring arrives in Texas, homeowners know that scorching summer temperatures are just around the corner. The last thing you want is for your air conditioning system to fail when you need it most. The most common spring HVAC problems are clogged filters, blocked condensers, faulty electrical panels, and refrigerant leaks. By following a comprehensive spring maintenance checklist, you can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your AC system runs efficiently throughout the demanding summer months.

Why Spring AC Maintenance is Critical

Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and potential breakdowns when you need your system the most. Every year in the United States, a staggering three million heating and cooling systems are replaced, and over $14 billion is spent on repairs and maintenance for existing systems. Interestingly, heating and cooling accounts for roughly half of the typical home’s energy usage. This makes proactive maintenance not just a comfort issue, but a significant financial consideration.

Spring HVAC maintenance ensures energy efficiency and comfort throughout the warmer months. A professional check-up during spring helps to catch issues early on and ensures smooth operation during peak cooling demand.

Essential DIY Spring AC Maintenance Tasks

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters

Cleaning or replacing air filters should be at the top of your spring HVAC maintenance checklist. Dirty filters restrict airflow and decrease efficiency. Clean filters promote better indoor air quality and help your system run smoothly. Replace or clean (if reusable) air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage.

2. Clear the Outdoor Unit

Remove any debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, or branches, from around the outdoor unit (condenser). Trim back vegetation to maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow. While indoor HVAC equipment can attract dust and grime, outdoor units can accumulate more dirt and debris. Each spring, inspect all outdoor gear and clean it as needed. Remove wintertime debris like leaves, acorns, grass, or twigs.

3. Clean Vents and Registers

Take the time to clean the vents and registers throughout your home. Dust and dirt can accumulate here, hindering airflow and affecting the efficiency of your system. Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove any buildup.

4. Check and Clear Drain Lines

Check the drain line for any visible obstructions such as dirt, algae, or debris. If the line appears clogged, you may notice water pooling around the indoor unit. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a small brush to remove any debris from the drain line. You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar to flush out algae or mold buildup.

5. Test Your Thermostat

Check your thermostat each spring, and change the batteries as needed. Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.

Professional Maintenance Tasks

While DIY maintenance is important, consider scheduling a professional HVAC tune-up to inspect and service your system thoroughly. A qualified technician can identify potential problems early, improve efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Professional technicians will perform critical tasks including:

• Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
• Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
• Spring is a good time for a professional HVAC tune-up and for a licensed technician to safely inspect your HVAC refrigerant levels to identify leaks.
• Airflow blockages can reduce an HVAC system’s efficiency by as much as 15 percent, so testing airflow is a necessary preventative maintenance step. Clean and adjust blower components to promote proper system airflow and avoid unnecessary energy drains.

Timing Your Spring Maintenance

Keep your cooling and heating system at peak performance by having a contractor do annual pre-season check-ups. Contractors get busy once summer and winter come, so it’s best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. We recommend turning on your air conditioning when temperatures are consistently higher than 60 degrees outdoors or when indoor temperatures are uncomfortable.

Trust the Experts at Texas Air Repair

For homeowners in Bexar County, Texas Air Repair has been providing trusted HVAC services for over 30 years. For 30+ years, homeowners and commercial property managers have trusted Texas Air Repair with all of their Cooling, Heating, Indoor Air Quality, and Commercial HVAC needs. With our years of experience and our highly skilled team of technicians, you can count on us for your air conditioning and heating issues.

As a company, we understand that our success comes from the satisfaction of our customers. From the time we show up to your home or business until the time that we leave, our licensed technicians will keep you informed and peace at mind. As a family-owned and operated air conditioning business, we understand the value of getting to know our customers. The owner, Henry Rodriguez was born and raised in Michigan, he would spend the summers with his family in San Antonio, where his father was from, every year and always said San Antonio would be his home.

When you need professional AC Maintenance Bexar County, TX, Texas Air Repair delivers exceptional service with a commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. We understand that our best advertising comes from our happy customers. Our focus is to deliver professional services from beginning to end, worthy of your referrals.

The Bottom Line: Prevention Pays

Regular seasonal inspections prevent breakdowns and help your equipment last about 40% longer. Regular maintenance gives your unit a fighting chance. By following this spring maintenance checklist, you can ensure that your HVAC system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable as the temperatures rise. Remember, a well-maintained HVAC system not only enhances indoor comfort but also helps you save on energy costs and extends the lifespan of your equipment.

One of the best ways to prevent breakdowns is to schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system. Routine maintenance is the best way to avoid common causes of AC breakdowns. Don’t wait until the scorching Texas summer arrives—take action now to ensure your cooling system is ready for whatever Mother Nature brings your way.