DIY AC Maintenance Tips for Hot Summer Days

When the temperature reaches 90 degrees, your air conditioner has to work harder. It struggles to keep your home cool. That extra work can put stress on your system. Simple maintenance steps can help your AC cool better. They also use less energy and lower the risk of breakdowns. 

Some jobs are safe for homeowners to do. Other problems should be left to a trained HVAC technician. Here are a few easy ways to help your AC during hot weather.

Change Your Air Filter

A dirty air filter is one of the biggest reasons an air conditioner struggles. 

Your filter catches dust, dirt, and pet hair before they reach your HVAC system. When it gets full, air cannot move through the system as easily. This makes your AC work harder and can increase your energy bill. 

Check your filter every month during the summer. If it looks dirty, replace it with a new one that fits your system.

Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor AC unit needs space to let heat escape. If weeds, leaves, or grass grow around it, the system cannot cool as well. 

Keep about two feet of open space around the unit. Remove leaves, sticks, and other debris. If the outside looks dirty, rinse it with a garden hose. Do not use a pressure washer because it can damage the fins.

Keep Air Vents Open

Cool air needs a clear path through your home. 

Walk through your house and make sure your vents are open. Move furniture, rugs, or curtains. They may block airflow. Closing vents does not save energy. It can actually make your air conditioner work harder.

Keep Your Thermostat Steady

Some people think that lowering the thermostat cools the house faster. But that’s not true. 

Set your thermostat to a comfy range of 75 to 78 degrees. Then, keep it there. You can also close blinds during the day and use ceiling fans to help your home feel cooler.

Watch for Problems

Your air conditioner can have problems. This can happen even if you maintain it regularly. 

If you feel warm air from the vents, your AC needs help. Weak airflow? Strange noises? Water leaks? Ice on the system? Call Golden Rule. Waiting too long can make the problem worse. 

When to Call Golden Rule 

DIY maintenance keeps your air conditioner running well. However, it can’t fix every problem. 

Call Golden Rule if your AC has any of these issues:  

• It can’t keep your home cool. 

• It runs all day but doesn’t reach the thermostat setting. 

• It leaks water. 

• It freezes up. 

• It makes unusual noises. 

If your system is over 10 years old and has trouble in the heat, get it checked. 

Our skilled HVAC techs will identify the issue, explain your choices, and keep your home cool all summer. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should I change my AC filter? 

Check your filter every month during the summer. Replace it whenever it looks dirty. 

Can I wash my outdoor AC unit? 

Yes. You can gently rinse the outside with a garden hose. Do not use a pressure washer. 

Why does my AC run longer when it’s over 90 degrees? 

Your air conditioner works harder in hot weather. Longer run times are normal. 

What temperature should I set my thermostat? 

Most homeowners like their settings between 75 and 78 degrees in summer. 

When should I call Golden Rule? 

Call if your AC blows warm air, leaks water, freezes up, makes strange noises, or cannot keep your home cool. 

Key Takeaway 

Simple AC maintenance helps your system run better. This is especially true when the temperature is over 90 degrees. Changing your air filter, cleaning around the outdoor unit, and keeping vents open are easy ways to help your system. If your AC still is not cooling your home or shows signs of a problem, call Golden Rule. We can help your air conditioner run safely and efficiently all summer.