How to Prepare Your AC for Summer

As summer approaches, ensuring your air conditioner is in top shape is crucial to avoid breakdowns during the hottest months. Proper AC maintenance not only enhances cooling performance but also reduces energy bills and extends the lifespan of your system. Whether you're in Antioch, Contra Costa, or Alameda, following these simple yet effective steps will help you stay cool all summer long.

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters

Why It’s Important:

Dirty air filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and increasing energy consumption. This can lead to higher electricity bills and reduced cooling efficiency.

How to Do It:

✅ Check your AC filters every 30-60 days and replace them if dirty.✅ If using washable filters, clean them with water and let them dry completely before reinstalling.✅ Use high-efficiency filters to improve indoor air quality and AC performance.

📞 Need AC maintenance in Antioch? Call (925) 505-8398 today!

2. Clean the Outdoor AC Unit (Condenser)

Why It’s Important:

Leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around your outdoor condenser unit, blocking airflow and reducing cooling efficiency.

How to Do It:

✅ Turn off the AC power before cleaning.✅ Use a garden hose to gently rinse the condenser coils.✅ Trim any vegetation or grass within two feet of the unit to improve airflow.

📞 Schedule a professional AC cleaning in Contra Costa today! (925) 505-8398

3. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Why It’s Important:

A properly set thermostat helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and prevents unnecessary energy waste.

How to Do It:

✅ Set your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) for an ideal balance between comfort and efficiency.✅ Upgrade to a smart thermostat for better energy management.✅ If your thermostat is unresponsive, it may need new batteries or replacement.

4. Inspect Refrigerant Levels & Check for Leaks

Why It’s Important:

Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling efficiency, causing your AC to struggle to maintain the desired temperature.

How to Do It:

✅ If your AC isn’t cooling properly, schedule a refrigerant level check.✅ Look for signs of a leak, such as hissing sounds or ice buildup on the coils.✅ Contact an HVAC professional in Antioch for refrigerant recharging and leak repairs.

📞 Call (925) 505-8398 for professional AC inspections in Alameda!

5. Test Your AC Before Peak Summer Heat

Why It’s Important:

Turning on your AC before summer allows you to catch any potential issues early.

How to Do It:

✅ Turn on your AC and let it run for 15-20 minutes to check for strange noises, weak airflow, or warm air.✅ If your AC isn’t cooling efficiently, schedule an HVAC inspection immediately.✅ Ensure all vents are open and unblocked for optimal airflow.

6. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Why It’s Important:

Regular AC maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns and ensures optimal performance during hot summer months.

What a Professional Tune-Up Includes:

🔧 Checking refrigerant levels and detecting leaks. 🔧 Inspecting and cleaning evaporator and condenser coils. 🔧 Testing electrical connections and thermostat functionality.

📞 Book your AC tune-up in Contra Costa & Alameda today! Call (925) 505-8398.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget About Your Heating System!

While preparing your AC for summer, it’s also a great time to schedule a heating system check-up. Many homeowners in Antioch forget about their furnace and heating system until winter arrives. Scheduling a heating system repair in Antioch now can prevent unexpected issues later.

📞 Call (925) 505-8398 for expert heating & cooling services!

Final Thoughts: Stay Cool & Efficient This Summer

Preparing your AC for summer is essential for comfort, energy efficiency, and preventing breakdowns. By following these simple steps—cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and scheduling maintenance—you can ensure your AC runs smoothly throughout the hottest months.

📞 Need professional AC maintenance in Antioch, Contra Costa, or Alameda? Call GenXpro HVAC at (925) 505-8398 today!