As the Illinois heat rolls in, the last thing you want is for your AC to fail on day one of summer. The good news? A little preventative care now can keep your unit running smoothly and efficiently throughout the season. Midwest Comfort Heating & Cooling, serving Elk Grove Village and surrounding Chicagoland areas, outlines six essential steps to get your air conditioner ready for summer.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before any maintenance:
- Shut off the power at your breaker panel to avoid accidents.
- Turn off the compressor disconnect near the outdoor unit (often a red box).
- Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm there’s no live current—better safe than sorry.
2. Clean or Replace Air Filters
- Replace filters twice a year, or more often if you live in a dusty environment or have pets.
- Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce cooling efficiency, and worsen indoor air quality.
- For optimal performance, install HEPA-rated filters that capture dust and allergens.
3. Clean the Condenser Coils
- Dust and debris accumulate on the coils when the system is idle, diminishing efficiency.
- Carefully remove access panels and use a soft brush or coil cleaner.
- Inspect for rust or gasket issues afterward—clean coils help reduce energy use and extend lifespan.
4. Remove Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
- Maintain precise airflow by clearing shrubs, leaves, and grass clippings—keep 2 ft clearance.
- Check the condensate pan and drain lines—clearing clogs can prevent mold and overflow.
- Wipe down fan blades and clear any standing water inside the unit.
5. Inspect Refrigerant Lines
- These insulated copper lines handle refrigerant between your indoor and outdoor units.
- Check insulation foam sleeves for tears or wear; replace as needed.
- Proper insulation prevents energy loss and maintains system efficiency.
6. Power It Up and Run a Test
- Let the system dry, then restore power at both the disconnect box and the breaker panel.
- Set your thermostat to cooling mode and monitor performance.
- Listen for abnormal sounds—if you hear anything strange, call Midwest Comfort at (847) 338-2777 for a full inspection.
Additional Summer-Ready Pro Tips
Professional Tune-Up
Schedule a mid-spring service with Midwest Comfort to:
- Check refrigerant levels
- Adjust the blower and fan
- Spot hidden issues before they escalate
Programmable Thermostat
Install one to automatically raise temps when nobody’s home and cool back pre-arrival—cutting energy costs and keeping comfort consistent.
Seal & Insulate Ducts
Sealing leaks with mastic or metal tape and insulating exposed ductwork prevents wasted cooling energy.
Keep Vents Unblocked
Ensure adequate airflow by keeping furniture, curtains, or rugs clear of supply and return vents.
Watch Your Energy Bills
If cooling costs spike at the start of summer, your AC may be under extra strain—call us before issues worsen.
Common Early-Season AC Problems
- Insufficient cooling? Check thermostat settings and airflow; dirty filters or low refrigerant could be culprits.
- Strange sounds? Grinding or squealing may indicate failing motors or loose components—have them checked promptly.
- Frequent cycling? Rapid on/off cycles often indicate oversized units or thermostat errors, leading to excess wear.
Getting your air conditioner ready doesn’t require specialized tools—just attention to these six steps. Regular seasonal maintenance saves money, boosts efficiency, and extends your system’s life. If you’d like Midwest Comfort to handle your spring tune-up, or if you hear anything unusual during testing, we’re here for you—(847) 338-2777, Elk Grove Village, IL.
Stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
