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As summer begins to wind down in Surf City, now’s the perfect time to show your HVAC system a little attention. After months of working overtime to keep your home cool, your air conditioner could use a check-in—and prepping for the seasonal shift helps ensure your whole system runs smoothly well into fall.
We always encourage homeowners to use the end of summer as a maintenance checkpoint. Not only does this improve system performance and energy savings, but it also helps you transition into the cooler months without surprises. Learn how to get your HVAC system ready for the change in seasons.
1. Change Your Air Filter
This is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. After a summer of heavy use, your filter is likely clogged with dust, pollen, and pet dander—especially in a coastal town like Surf City where salty air and fine particles can build up faster than expected.
Pro Tip: Replace your air filter every one to three months, and check it monthly during peak seasons. A clean filter improves airflow, lowers energy use, and helps maintain better indoor air quality.
2. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
Your condenser unit has been working hard all summer, and it’s probably collected its fair share of debris—leaves, grass clippings, and salt spray from ocean breezes. What to do:
- Clear away at least two feet of space around the unit
- Remove debris from the fins
- Gently rinse the exterior with a garden hose (not a pressure washer)
This helps the unit breathe better and operate more efficiently as it wraps up cooling season.
3. Check for Signs of Wear or Trouble
Before you switch to heating mode later in the year, take a moment to assess how your system is running. Are there any odd noises, uneven cooling, or higher energy bills than expected? Watch for:
- Weak airflow
- Unusual rattling, buzzing, or clicking
- Thermostat not responding properly
- AC taking longer to cool the house
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, now’s the time to schedule a professional inspection—before minor issues turn into bigger problems when you need heat.
4. Schedule Preventive Maintenance
An end-of-summer tune-up is the best way to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and to prepare it for the demands of the upcoming cooler months. During a maintenance visit, we’ll:
- Inspect electrical connections and controls
- Clean and test coils, blowers, and drain lines
- Check refrigerant levels
- Lubricate moving parts
- Ensure proper airflow
- Test thermostat calibration
It’s a small investment that can help you avoid mid-season breakdowns and extend the life of your system.
5. Seal Air Leaks and Adjust Vents
As the weather cools, you’ll want to keep warm air inside and reduce unnecessary strain on your heating system. Now’s the time to:
- Check windows and doors for drafts
- Add weather stripping or caulking where needed
- Adjust supply and return vents for balanced airflow in commonly used rooms
- Proper sealing and airflow adjustments can improve energy efficiency year-round.
At Gideon Heating & Air Conditioning, we like to say that our work isn’t just good—it’s Gideon Guaranteed! Contact us today to schedule HVAC services.