As the seasons change and the weather warms in the Arizona region, it’s important to ensure your air conditioner is equipped to handle the increased demand. There are several steps that every Phoenix family can take to prepare their HVAC system for the Arizona spring and ensure lasting comfort as the temperature climbs.
Below, we’ll cover some essential tasks homeowners should perform before the spring and summer to get the most out of their AC systems.
Change AC Filters
Even though your air conditioner might not have been used during the winter, it could still have dust, debris, and other buildup within its air filter. That’s why it’s important to change or clean your air filter before the springtime hits. Clogged air filters can reduce airflow and system efficiency, causing your unit to work harder than necessary to meet your comfort needs. It can also significantly affect your indoor air quality.
As a standard practice, swap out your air filter at the start of each cooling season. From there, it’s recommended that you change or clean your air filter once every 90 days to protect against restricted airflow and reduced efficiency throughout the summer months.
Set Your Thermostat
The next step in preparing your HVAC equipment for the Arizona spring is to ensure your thermostat is set properly. Inspect your thermostat thoroughly before turning your system on for the first time, ensuring it has fresh batteries and is set to the right temperature.
Sometimes, a perceived issue with your air conditioner may lie in a faulty thermostat. Monitor your thermostat performance during your test. If you notice any inaccuracies and malfunctions, contact an HVAC professional for thermostat repair to address the issue before the hotter weather hits.
Clear Any Debris
During the winter, leaves, branches, and other debris can accumulate around your outdoor condenser unit. Leaving these materials around your unit can result in reduced efficiency and restricted airflow in the same way that a clogged air filter can.
Before spring, take the opportunity to remove any debris on or around your AC unit. You may consider wiping down the unit with a damp cloth to clear any dust that may have accumulated on your system.
Address Any Issues Promptly
Before the hotter weather takes full effect, pay extra attention to your air conditioning system. Be on the lookout for any obvious signs of needed AC repair, such as:
- Strange noises: Squealing, scraping, and grinding noises from your AC are sure signs that something is wrong and needs immediate attention.
- Unusual odors: A repair professional should address strong, pungent odors — such as mildew or moldy smells — coming from your AC.
- Water leaks: If you notice standing water or an active leak near your air conditioner, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning condensate drain or refrigerant leak.
Have any air conditioning issues addressed promptly to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and further escalation during the warmer months ahead.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Last but certainly not least, adhering to an annual maintenance schedule is critical to keep your cooling equipment in proper working order. Plan to schedule air conditioning maintenance with a trained professional once a year, preferably in the late winter or early spring, to beat the seasonal rush.
Scheduling preventative maintenance for your air conditioning system can help extend its life span, increase energy efficiency, and reduce cooling expenses during the summer months. It can also help protect against unnecessary repairs and improve overall system performance for better reliability.
Rely On Penguin for Spring AC Maintenance in Phoenix, AZ
Ready to prepare for springtime in Arizona with a professional tune-up? Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical has you covered. Offering comprehensive maintenance services backed by our “Job Done Right” guarantee, you can trust us to optimize your HVAC system for lasting performance.
Call us at (480) 550-9943 now to schedule your air conditioning maintenance appointment in Phoenix!