Get Your Air Conditioner Ready for the Summer with Superior Water & Air

By Todd Jameson, Superior Water & Air

Before the summer heat hits full force, now’s the time to make sure your air conditioner is ready. Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your AC needs regular tune-ups to stay in peak shape. Annual service keeps your energy bill in check and prevents surprise breakdowns during the year’s hottest days.

Superior Water & Air provides expert air conditioner services across Utah and Idaho. Our team knows how to get your AC working efficiently and reliably so you can enjoy a stress-free summer. 

Why AC Maintenance is Essential Before Summer

Your air conditioner works hard. That’s why regular maintenance is so important, especially before temperatures climb. Waiting too long can leave you with an underperforming system or, worse, a sudden breakdown when you need it most. 

Getting ahead of the summer heat boosts your system to perform its best when you need it. Below, we’ll explain why spring is the perfect time for a tune-up and how early maintenance saves you money, extends your system’s life, and helps you stay cool all summer.

Importance of Prepping Your AC for the Hot Months

Before the heat kicks in, check and clean your outdoor unit. First, make sure it’s at least 60 degrees outside. A proper tune-up now means fewer problems later, when summer temperatures are at their worst. 

Regular AC maintenance spots small issues before they become big ones each year. Clearing out debris and checking electrical components are a few early steps you can take to keep your unit running efficiently.

Extend the Life of Your AC Unit

If you skip maintenance every year, your AC can lose around 5% of its efficiency. That might not sound like much, but it adds up quickly. It also seriously burdens your system, and over time, that wear and tear shortens its lifespan.

Scheduling yearly service keeps your unit running like new for longer. While most air conditioners start to wear down around the 10-year mark, quality care stretches that timeline.

How Often Should You Schedule AC Maintenance?

If you’re wondering how often to service your air conditioner, the answer is at least once a year. Most experts recommend scheduling your spring tune-up before the weather heats up. That way, your system is in top shape before you need it daily.

The age and condition of your unit also play a role. Older systems or ones that have had problems might need a little extra attention. But even newer models benefit from a yearly checkup to keep them running their best.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule: Springtime is the Best Time

Spring is the perfect time for air conditioner maintenance. Mild temperatures give you time to catch and fix any issues before your system starts working overtime.

A spring checkup includes:

• Cleaning parts 
• Checking coolant levels
• Tightening connections
• Testing system performance 

The Impact of Poor AC Maintenance

Skipping your yearly AC maintenance may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to many issues down the road, including higher energy bills, uneven cooling, or even a complete system breakdown. Neglecting your unit can cost you more than just comfort.

Your air conditioner needs routine checkups to run efficiently. When parts wear out, filters clog, or refrigerant runs low, your system has to work harder and use more energy. That extra strain shortens its lifespan and leads to expensive repairs.

Here’s some issues that occur when maintenance is put off:

Higher Energy Costs

Even a small issue, like low coolant, drives up your energy bill fast. In fact, a system that’s just 10% low on refrigerant costs a lot more to run each month. 

Dirty filters and coils also force your unit to work overtime. That means more electricity, more wear and tear, and higher monthly costs. A clean, well-maintained system uses less energy to cool your home, saving you money.

Inability to Cool

The last thing you want is your AC quitting on the hottest day of the year. Without proper maintenance, your system might not be able to keep up when you need it. And during a heatwave, that’s not just uncomfortable. It’s dangerous.

A quick tune-up ensures your unit is producing the coolest, cleanest air possible. It also gives you peace of mind knowing your system won’t leave you sweating when temps hit triple digits.

Risk of Breakdowns

Your air conditioner has a lot of moving parts, including motors, wiring, fans, and refrigerant lines. It only takes one thing going wrong to cause a breakdown.

When you skip maintenance, small issues become bigger, more expensive problems. Motors can burn out, wiring can wear down, and leaks can go unnoticed until they cause serious damage.

Routine maintenance catches those problems early. It’s a simple step that saves you from the stress and cost of major repairs later.

DIY AC Maintenance Tasks

Replace Air Filters

Dirty filters block airflow and lower indoor air quality. Most homes should replace filters every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and type. Swapping them out is one of the easiest ways to help your system breathe more easily and work more efficiently.

Clear Debris Around Outdoor Units

Grass, leaves, and other debris block airflow and overheat your outdoor unit. Use a vacuum or a gloved hand to remove any buildup around the fins. A little tidying up goes a long way in keeping your AC running efficiently.

Check and Clean Condenser Coils

Dirty coils make your system work harder, which uses more energy and shortens its life. Use a hose on gentle pressure to rinse the coils (never use high pressure). This small step keeps your unit clean and efficient.

Inspect the Refrigerant Lines

Take a quick look at the insulated refrigerant lines leading into your house. If they look worn or if you suspect a leak, call a professional. Even small coolant issues cause big energy losses and reduce your system’s cooling power.

Test Your AC Unit Before You Need It

Don’t wait for the first hot day. Turn your AC on early in the season. Set your thermostat to cool and give it 10 minutes. If the insulated line doesn’t feel cool, try again in 24 hours. Still warm? Time to call a pro.

Calibrate Your Thermostat

If your home feels warmer or cooler than your thermostat says, your system could be misaligned. Check the settings and replace the batteries if needed. Still off? You might need a new thermostat or a professional calibration to get things back on track.

Check the Vents and Ductwork

Dust and dirt build up in your vents and ducts, making your system work harder and reducing air quality. Wipe down vents and consider scheduling a duct cleaning if it’s been a while. Clean airflow keeps everyone in your home cool and healthy.

Why Choose Superior Water & Air for Your AC Maintenance in Utah and Idaho?

When it comes to keeping your home cool and comfortable, you want a team you can rely on. That’s why so many homeowners in Utah and Idaho choose Superior Water & Air for their annual AC maintenance.

With decades of experience and a reputation for quality service, our technicians know how to keep your system running efficiently. We handle everything from quick tune-ups to full system replacements with care, professionalism, and attention to detail.

We’re fast, friendly, and always focused on your comfort. Whether you need help in Salt Lake City, Provo, Boise, or beyond, Superior Water & Air is your go-to source for reliable air conditioner services across the region.

Ready to stay cool all summer long? Let us take care of your AC system so you can enjoy the season without worry.

Schedule your spring AC tune-up with Superior Water & Air today and get ahead of the summer heat!