As winter transitions into spring, homeowners must begin preparing their air conditioning systems for the warmer months ahead. Without proper maintenance, your AC may struggle to keep up with increasing temperatures, leading to higher energy bills, uneven cooling, and unexpected breakdowns.
A well-maintained AC system improves efficiency by up to 15%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This means lower cooling costs and a longer lifespan for your unit. Whether you have a central AC system, ductless mini-splits, or window units, this spring HVAC checklist will help you stay cool and comfortable all season long.
Why Spring HVAC Maintenance is Essential
Many homeowners make the mistake of waiting until summer to turn on their AC, only to find that it’s not working properly. By scheduling maintenance in the spring, you can:
Avoid emergency AC repairs during peak summer demand
Extend your unit’s lifespan (most ACs last 12-15 years with proper care)
Improve indoor air quality by removing dust, pollen, and allergens
Lower energy bills by keeping your system running efficiently
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step AC maintenance checklist to ensure your system is ready for spring and summer.
Step 1: Replace or Clean Air Filters
One of the most overlooked yet crucial maintenance tasks is changing or cleaning your air filters. Dirty filters reduce airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy.
How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?
- Every 1-3 months for standard 1-inch filters
- Every 6-12 months for HEPA or reusable filters
- More frequently if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty environment
Tip: A clogged filter can increase energy consumption by up to 15%. Set a reminder to check it monthly!
Step 2: Clean Your Outdoor Condenser Unit
Your AC’s outdoor unit (condenser) accumulates dirt, leaves, and debris over time, which can block airflow and reduce efficiency.
How to Clean Your AC Condenser
Turn off the power to your AC at the circuit breaker.
Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from around the unit.
Use a garden hose to gently rinse the coils (don’t use high pressure!).
Straighten bent fins using a fin comb to improve airflow.
Allow it to dry completely before turning the power back on.
Tip: Keep 2-3 feet of clearance around the unit to prevent airflow restrictions.
Step 3: Inspect & Seal Air Ducts
Did you know that leaky air ducts can waste up to 30% of cooled air? This means higher energy bills and inconsistent cooling throughout your home.
Signs of Leaky Air Ducts:
Uneven cooling in different rooms
Higher-than-usual energy bills
Excessive dust buildup in your home
Weak airflow from vents
How to Seal Air Duct Leaks
- Use foil tape or mastic sealant to cover small leaks
- Check duct joints and reinforce with HVAC-rated tape
- Consider hiring a professional HVAC technician for a full duct inspection
Step 4: Test Your Thermostat
Your thermostat settings play a huge role in energy efficiency. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade to a smart thermostat, which can reduce cooling costs by 10-15%.
Best Thermostat Settings for Spring & Summer:
78°F when at home for optimal energy savings
82-85°F when away to prevent overcooling
72-74°F at night for comfortable sleeping
Tip: If your AC isn’t responding properly to thermostat changes, the issue could be with the thermostat’s wiring or sensor calibration.
Step 5: Check for Refrigerant Leaks
If your AC is blowing warm air, it could be low on refrigerant. Refrigerant is essential for cooling, and leaks must be repaired by an HVAC professional.
Signs of Low Refrigerant Levels:
AC is running but not cooling properly
Hissing or bubbling noises near the unit
Ice buildup on refrigerant lines
High energy bills with no apparent reason
Don’t DIY refrigerant refills! Handling refrigerant requires a licensed HVAC technician due to EPA regulations.
Step 6: Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up
Even with regular homeowner maintenance, a professional AC inspection is the best way to catch potential issues early.
What’s Included in a Professional AC Tune-Up?
Cleaning & lubricating essential components
Checking refrigerant levels & pressure
Inspecting electrical connections for safety
Testing system performance for efficiency
Tip: Schedule your AC tune-up in March or April to avoid the summer rush and potential long wait times.
Final Thoughts | Prepare AC for summer
Preparing your air conditioner for spring and summer saves money, improves efficiency, and prevents breakdowns. By following this checklist and scheduling a spring AC tune-up, you’ll ensure reliable cooling all season long.
Is your AC ready for summer? Contact Greenwood Plumbing & Heating today for expert AC maintenance & repairs!
