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Last Revised: 4/16/25
Is your air conditioner ready to handle the hottest days of summer? Are you taking any steps right now to avoid breakdowns, high energy bills, and unexpected repair costs?
You don’t have to let summer heat catch you off guard; with a few simple habits, you can avoid emergency breakdowns and keep cool all summer. At Mattioni, we know the exact habits and minor housekeeping tactics that support a healthy AC system and a comfortable home.
In this article, you’ll learn six proven tips to keep your AC running at its best. These strategies will help you stay cool, save money, and avoid the stress of an unexpected failure.
1. Replace air filters regularly
The most important step you can take towards keeping your AC running efficiently is also the easiest: change your air filter every month. In summer, your HVAC system runs more than it does in fall and spring, which means more dust, dirt, and debris are caught in your air filter.
A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder than it needs to, and leading to higher energy usage, reduced cooling and even potential system damage over time. We recommend checking your filter monthly during the summer and replacing it at least every 1-3 months.
Set a reminder for yourself, either on your smartphone or a handwritten note, so that you don’t forget this simple and effective step towards protecting your air conditioner.
2. Keep the outdoor unit clear
Your outdoor condenser unit needs adequate airflow to function efficiently. If it’s surrounded by overgrown bushes, yard debris, or dirt buildup, heat can’t escape properly – and that strains your system.
Clear at least two feet of space around the unit. Trim back plants, sweep away leaves or grass clippings, and gently rinse the unit with a hose (on low pressure) to keep it breathing freely.
(Pictured above: a frozen indoor evaporator coil)
3. Schedule a professional tune-up
Annual maintenance is essential to keeping your AC running efficiently and reliably. During a tune-up, a licensed technician will inspect the system, clean components (like coils), check refrigerant levels, and catch any issues before they require major repairs.
Think of it like getting an oil change for your car – it prevents breakdowns and keeps everything running smoothly (which shows up as savings on your energy bills.) The best time to schedule is in spring or early summer, to ensure your system is fully operational before the heat sets in.
Book a tune-up appointment with Mattioni now.
4. Monitor & adjust thermostat settings
Efficient thermostat use can significantly reduce energy consumption and the workload your air conditioner experiences. A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to schedule temperature adjustments based on your daily routine.
We recommend bumping up your temperature about 7-10 degrees when you’re away from home. Many smart thermostats use a geo-fencing feature, which automatically turns your AC on when you reach a certain distance from your home, so that it’s cool again once you arrive. This balance keeps you comfortable while easing the burden on your system.
5. Seal your doors and windows
Cool air loss is one of the most common causes of inefficient AC performance. Small gaps around windows, doors, or attic hatches allow warm air in and cool air out, forcing your system to work overtime.
Sealing gaps with weatherstripping, caulk, or insulation is an easy, cost-effective way to boost efficiency. You’ll not only stay cooler – you’ll also see savings on your utility bills.
6. Embrace passive cooling techniques
Beyond your AC, you can adopt natural, energy-smart strategies to keep your home cooler. These include:
- Closing blinds or curtains during peak sun hours
- Using ceiling fans (set to rotate counterclockwise) to improve air circulation
- Running heat-generating appliances (like ovens and dryers) in the evening
- Opening windows at night when temperatures drop
These passive cooling techniques reduce the demand on your air conditioner and help maintain indoor comfort without extra energy use.
How To Know the Early Signs of Serious AC Trouble
Even with maintenance, as air conditioners age, they develop issues. And the additional workload they experience during summer can bring them to light. Recognizing early warning signs can help you avoid sudden breakdowns and costly repairs.
Watch for these common red flags:
- Warm air blowing from vents, even when your AC is on
- Weak or inconsistent airflow in certain rooms
- Unusual noises, like banging, rattling, or hissing
- Frequent short cycling (the system turns on and off more than usual)
- Spikes in your energy bill without a clear cause
- Musty or burning smells when the AC is running
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to call a professional right away. Minor issues can escalate quickly into major repairs if left untreated.
Being proactive when something seems off helps you protect your comfort, wallet, and your AC’s lifespan. If your air conditioner is over 12 years old, is out of warranty, and is experiencing multiple symptoms of failure, it may be time to think about how replacing it can be cost-effective in the long term.
Keep Your AC Strong All Summer Long
Keeping your AC in peak condition doesn’t always require expensive upgrades – just a few smart, seasonal habits (like replacing filters and sealing gaps) can alleviate its workload and make all the difference in your comfort. If you’ve ever dealt with a sudden AC failure in the middle of a heatwave or noticed your energy bills creeping higher and higher, you know how stressful and costly neglecting maintenance can be.
Now that you know how to get ahead of the most common summer AC issues, your next step is to schedule a professional tune-up or read our air conditioner replacement guide.
At Mattioni, we’ve been helping homeowners stay cool for over 75 years. Whether you’re ready for a maintenance check or dealing with an urgent issue, our licensed experts are here to help you stay cool all summer long – no matter how hot it gets outside.
Call today at (610) 400-8510 or book an appointment online and enjoy a worry-free cooling season.
