As temperatures begin to rise and spring settles in, it’s the perfect time to ensure your air conditioning system is ready to tackle the upcoming summer heat. A little preparation now can save you from the discomfort of a malfunctioning AC on the hottest days of the year—and it can also help you save on energy bills and avoid costly repairs. Here’s how to prep your AC for summer with smart spring maintenance tips.

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters
One of the easiest yet most essential steps in AC maintenance is replacing or cleaning your air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder, which can lead to wear and tear and reduced efficiency. Ideally, you should change your filters every 1–3 months, depending on your household and whether you have pets or allergies.
2. Clear Debris Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit needs plenty of room to breathe. Over the winter, it may have collected leaves, twigs, or other debris. Clear a two-foot radius around the unit, and gently clean off any visible dirt on the fins. This helps ensure proper airflow and prevents your system from overheating.
3. Check and Clean Vents and Registers
Blocked or dirty vents can lead to uneven cooling and strain your system. Walk through your home and make sure all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Vacuum any dust buildup to improve air quality and flow.
4. Test the Thermostat
Before summer hits in full force, switch your thermostat to cooling mode and test your system. If it doesn’t start up or doesn’t blow cold air within a few minutes, it’s a sign that professional servicing may be needed. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can also help you control cooling costs more effectively.
5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
Even if your AC seems to be working fine, a professional spring tune-up can catch minor issues before they become major headaches. A trained technician will inspect the components, check refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure the system is running at peak performance.
6. Join the Love Club for Year-Round Peace of Mind
Staying on top of your HVAC maintenance is easy when you’re part of the Love Club. As a member, you receive a 20% discount on all repairs, 2 Complete HVAC tune-ups per year, front-of-the-line, lifetime warranty on all repairs during continuous membership without lapse service within 48 hours, and more. It’s a worry-free way to ensure your system is always performing at its best, especially when you need it most.
The Benefits of Early-Season AC Maintenance
Tuning up your AC in spring means you beat the summer rush. It ensures your home stays cool and comfortable from the start, improves energy efficiency, extends the lifespan of your equipment, and helps lower monthly utility bills. Plus, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that your system is ready to handle the heat. Whether you’re staying ahead of repairs or improving comfort, AC summer prep in Modesto starts with a smart spring strategy and a team you can trust.
Contact DeHart Plumbing, Heating & Air, Inc. today for your professional AC services!