Kresge Electric’s Tips to Prep Your A/C for the End of Summer

08/28/2024

As summer winds down and the temperatures start to cool, it’s easy to forget about your air conditioner. After all, you’ve relied on it all season to keep your home cool and comfortable. But before you say goodbye to summer, it’s important to give your A/C system some attention. Prepping your A/C for the end of the season can help extend its life, improve efficiency, and ensure it’s ready to go when the heat returns next year. Here’s how to do it.

1. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your A/C is to clean or replace the air filter. Over the summer, your air filter collects dust, pollen, and other debris that can clog it up and reduce airflow. A dirty filter forces your A/C to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear.

To avoid these issues, check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. If you have a reusable filter, give it a good cleaning according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This small step can make a big difference in your system’s efficiency and help keep your indoor air quality high.

2. Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your A/C’s outdoor unit has been working hard all summer, and it’s likely collected some dirt, leaves, and other debris along the way. Before the cooler weather sets in, take some time to clean the unit.

Start by turning off the power to the unit to ensure your safety. Then, use a garden hose to gently wash away any dirt and debris from the exterior fins. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as this can damage the fins. If you notice any weeds or plants growing too close to the unit, trim them back to ensure proper airflow.

Keeping the outdoor unit clean helps it run more efficiently and reduces the risk of damage, saving you from costly repairs down the road.

3. Check the Thermostat

As you transition from cooling to heating, it’s a good idea to check your thermostat settings. Make sure the thermostat is set to your preferred temperature for the cooler months, and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you haven’t already.

A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, which can help you save energy and reduce your utility bills. For example, you can set the temperature lower during the night or when you’re not at home and have it warm up just before you return.

If you already have a programmable thermostat, now is the perfect time to review your settings and make any necessary adjustments for the fall and winter months.

4. Schedule a Professional Inspection

While there are many things you can do on your own to maintain your A/C, it’s also important to have a professional inspect your system at least once a year. An HVAC technician can check for any potential issues, such as refrigerant leaks, worn-out parts, or electrical problems, that could cause your system to break down.

A professional inspection ensures that your A/C is in top shape and ready to handle the demands of next summer. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that any small issues can be caught and addressed before they turn into major problems.

5. Cover the Unit (Optional)

If you live in an area with harsh winters, you may want to consider covering your outdoor A/C unit to protect it from snow, ice, and debris. While not always necessary, a cover can help prevent damage to the unit during the off-season. Just be sure to remove the cover when spring rolls around to avoid trapping moisture inside, which can lead to rust and other damage.

The Bottom Line

Prepping your A/C for the end of summer doesn’t have to be complicated, but it can make a big difference in the longevity and efficiency of your system. By cleaning or replacing the air filter, cleaning the outdoor unit, checking the thermostat, scheduling a professional inspection, and considering a cover, you’re setting your A/C up for success in the years to come.