As summer winds down, your air conditioner has already put in months of hard work keeping your home cool. But the season’s not over yet—and the last hot days can push an overworked system to the breaking point. Now’s the perfect time for a quick tune-up to ensure you make it comfortably into fall. If you’ve been meaning to schedule professional AC maintenance in Hibbing, MN, don’t put it off any longer—your comfort and your AC’s health depend on it.
Replace Your Air Filter
Your air filter has been collecting dust, pollen, and other airborne debris all summer long. A dirty filter forces your AC to work harder, reducing efficiency and putting extra strain on the system. Replacing the filter every one to three months is one of the easiest ways to keep your AC running smoothly and your indoor air clean.
Clean Indoor Unit Coils
If your indoor unit’s evaporator coils are dusty, airflow and cooling performance will suffer. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow dust away—being careful not to damage the delicate fins. Keeping coils clean allows your AC to cool more effectively and reduces energy waste.
Tidy Up Around the Outdoor Unit
Over the summer, weeds, grass, and plants can grow too close to your outdoor condenser unit, blocking airflow. Trim back any vegetation to maintain at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Rake away leaves, sticks, and debris so your system can breathe and run efficiently.
Wash the Outdoor Coils
Your outdoor unit’s coils also collect dirt and dust over time, which can reduce heat transfer and strain the system. Use a gentle spray from a garden hose to rinse them off—never a pressure washer, which can bend the fins and cause damage.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
If you skipped your annual AC maintenance earlier this year, it’s not too late. A trained technician can spot small issues before they turn into costly repairs, check refrigerant levels, clean and tune up critical parts, and make sure your system is ready for the final stretch of summer.
Watch for Signs of Trouble
Even with good upkeep, problems can still arise. Keep an eye (and ear) out for these warning signs that your AC may need repairs:
- Unusual noises such as grinding, screeching, or banging
- Warm air blowing from your vents when the thermostat is set to cool
- Short cycling, where the AC turns on and off frequently
- Weak airflow from vents
- Unexplained spikes in your energy bill
- Leaks or pooling water around the indoor or outdoor unit
- Strange odors coming from the vents
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent major breakdowns, especially when your AC is still working hard in the heat.
Keep Cool Through the Season’s End
A little attention now goes a long way toward avoiding discomfort and costly repairs later. By following this checklist, you can help your air conditioner finish the summer strong—and give yourself peace of mind as the seasons change.
Reach out to Mesaba Heating & Air Conditioning today. Service to you is success to us!