Essential Tips To Get Your AC Ready for a Minnesota Summer

Summers in the Twin Cities can be pretty hot with average highs of 79 degrees F, so families in the area need a reliable AC system so they can keep cool on the hottest days of the year. As summer approaches, ensuring your air conditioner is ready to handle the increased demand is essential. A well-prepared system not only provides lasting comfort but can also operate more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.

In this blog post, the cooling experts at Dean’s Home Services guide you through simple DIY AC maintenance tips and explain the importance of professional tune-ups to prepare your AC for a Minnesota summer.

DIY Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Keeping your air conditioner in top shape doesn’t always require professional help. There are several AC maintenance tasks that you can do yourself to enhance the performance of your system. Our DIY tips for air conditioner preparation in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area include:

Check & Replace the Air Filters

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to keep your AC well-maintained is to check and replace the air filters at the recommended intervals. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and putting more strain on your system. Check your filters every month during high-use seasons like summer and replace them as needed (usually once every one to three months).

Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your air conditioner’s outdoor unit is an essential part of efficient cooling as it expels heat from your home. Remove any debris like leaves, dirt, and branches that have accumulated around the unit during the winter and spring. Also, ensure there’s at least 2 feet of clearance around it for optimal airflow and easier maintenance.

Inspect Cooling Coils & Fans

The evaporator and condenser coils can accumulate dirt and debris over time, which reduces their ability to absorb heat effectively. Gently clean these coils with a soft brush or a special coil cleaner. Additionally, check the fins on the coils to see if they are bent. If they are, this can block airflow through the coil, so try using a fin comb to straighten them out to prevent this issue from hindering your AC performance.

Check Thermostat Settings

Test your thermostat’s settings before the summer hits to ensure it’s working properly. If you have a programmable thermostat, configure it for the summer months to save energy while keeping your home cool and comfortable.

Seal Ductwork

Check the ductwork for signs of air leaks, which can significantly decrease the efficiency of your air conditioner. Use duct sealant or metal-backed tape to seal any leaks. Also, consider insulating ducts that run through unconditioned space to keep the air within them cool and prevent air loss.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

While DIY tips are helpful, an annual professional tune-up is essential for extending the lifespan, efficiency, and reliability of your air conditioner. A professional HVAC technician can perform a more thorough evaluation of your system, including:

• Checking coolant levels and pressure to ensure the system runs at peak efficiency.
• Inspecting electrical components and controls to make sure everything is operating safely.
• Calibrating the thermostat to ensure comfort and efficiency.
• Cleaning and inspecting the blower motor and checking its operation.

It’s recommended that you schedule a professional tune-up before the peak of the summer season as this allows you to identify and fix any potential problems that could lead to a breakdown during the hottest days of the year. This proactive approach not only ensures that your AC unit is ready for summer but also helps avoid the inconvenience and cost of emergency repairs.

Call Dean’s for All Your AC Needs

If you’re looking to optimize your air conditioner’s performance and ensure it’s ready to satisfy increased demand during the Minneapolis and St. Paul summer, Dean’s Home Services is here to help with our expert air conditioning services. Whether you need a comprehensive AC tune-up or are seeking same-day AC repairs for a broken system, we are here to ensure your home remains cool and comfortable when it counts.

Schedule air conditioning services in the Twin Cities today by contacting our team.