With the overwhelming heat, your AC is working hard to keep your home cool. But here’s something a lot of people don’t think about—regular maintenance is key to making sure your system runs smoothly all season long. Skipping out on AC maintenance can lead to some serious problems, like unexpected breakdowns and costly emergency repairs. Trust me, you don’t want that!

The good news? A little proactive care can go a long way toward avoiding those headaches. Let me share five HVAC contractor-approved tips to help you keep your AC in top shape and avoid those emergency repair calls.

1. Regularly Change and Clean Your Air Filters

This one’s a biggie! Your air filters do more than just keep dust and allergens out of your home—they help your AC system run efficiently, too. When filters get clogged with dust and debris, your AC has to work twice as hard to push air through, which not only makes it less effective but also puts extra strain on the system.

HVAC contractors recommend checking your filters at least once a month during peak usage and replacing them every 1-3 months, depending on how dirty they get. Keeping them clean not only improves your indoor air quality but also helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your AC, reducing the chance of an emergency breakdown.

2. Schedule a Seasonal HVAC Tune-Up

One of the best things you can do for your AC? Schedule regular AC maintenance! A professional HVAC contractor will inspect your system, check refrigerant levels, clean condenser coils, and ensure everything is running smoothly. Catching small issues during a routine tune-up can prevent them from turning into big, expensive problems later on.

Most experts recommend getting a tune-up twice a year—once before summer and once before winter. This way, your system is ready to handle whatever the season throws its way. Plus, many companies, like us, offer maintenance plans to make sure you never forget a checkup. Trust me, this is one service you’ll be glad you scheduled ahead of time!

3. Keep the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit Clean

Here’s something that often gets overlooked: the space around your outdoor AC unit. It might not seem like a big deal, but when leaves, dirt, or overgrown plants start blocking the unit, it can seriously mess with how well your system works. The outdoor unit needs plenty of airflow to function efficiently, and if it’s surrounded by debris or vegetation, it can overheat or become clogged.

HVAC contractors suggest keeping at least a 2-3 foot clearance around your unit. Make sure to clear away any leaves, grass clippings, or other debris that could block airflow. Also, be sure to trim back any bushes or plants growing too close. A quick monthly inspection—especially after storms—will go a long way in helping your AC stay cool and prevent unnecessary strain that could lead to costly repairs down the road.

4. Don’t Ignore Unusual Noises or Performance Issues

Your AC should run smoothly and quietly. If you start hearing strange noises like banging, rattling, or grinding, something’s not right. These sounds could mean a mechanical issue, such as loose parts, a failing motor, or a worn-out belt, and ignoring them can quickly lead to a full system breakdown.

Even if the noise seems minor, it’s important to call a professional HVAC contractor as soon as possible. They can diagnose and fix the problem before it gets worse. And it’s not just noises—if your AC isn’t cooling like it used to, has reduced airflow, or is taking longer to cool your home, these are red flags too. They could point to refrigerant leaks, dirty evaporator coils, or blocked ducts, all of which need attention ASAP to avoid more serious (and expensive) problems.

5. Check Your Thermostat Settings and Calibration

Sometimes, your AC problems could be as simple as thermostat issues. If your thermostat isn’t set correctly or isn’t calibrated, your AC might be working harder than it needs to—or not running efficiently at all. Set your thermostat to a temperature that balances comfort and energy savings—around 78°F in summer is a good rule of thumb.

Also, check whether your thermostat is calibrated correctly. If it’s not, it may be reading the room temperature incorrectly, causing your AC to cycle more often than necessary. If you’re not sure, an HVAC contractor can easily check and recalibrate it for you. Better yet, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which lets you control your home’s temperature more efficiently, saving energy and wear on your system.

Stay on top of these tips, and your AC will thank you by running smoothly and efficiently all summer long! Plus, you’ll avoid those dreaded emergency repair calls. But if something does go wrong, you know who to call: QualityCare Air Services.