When an AC unit sits idle for months, collecting leaves and debris, a bit of maintenance is often needed to get it running properly. If you don’t do this maintenance before summer arrives, you may end up waiting several hot days for a busy service pro—and paying top-of-the- season prices, to boot.

Steps to Get Your AC Ready For Summer

 Clean or Replace the Filters

Clean or replace your furnace or air-handler filters whenever they begin to looked clogged with dust. Or, at least twice a year. Not changing these filters will restrict air flow and reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning unit. Dust filters also recirculate dust into your home. For information on how to do this, see How to Replace Furnace & AC Filters.

 Safety 

Turn off the circuit breaker before working on your air conditioning system. Be sure to turn off the power to the condenser at the service panel before working on your air conditioner unit. The condenser also typically has a 240-volt weatherproof disconnect box located near the unit. This contains a lever, fuses, or a circuit breaker to shut off the condenser. Be sure to turn this off as well.

Clean the Return Air Ducts

In addition to changing the filter, you should also take the time to clean your return air ducts. Duct covers that are clogged with lint, dust and dirt block airflow and force your system to work harder, shortening its lifespan while harming its efficiency. Vacuum these ducts every time you clean the room to ensure that there is adequate airflow reaching your HVAC unit.

Clean the Outside Compressor

One of the most important central air efficiency tips is to keep your compressor and condenser coils clean. This is part of a tune-up, so you won’t have to open the system if you invest in professional services. However, the coils can get dirty, which means they will struggle to absorb heat effectively. You can clean the evaporator and condenser coils with a garden hose, but be careful to not get any electrical connections wet.