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As the seasons change in Santa Clarita, so do your home comfort needs. After months of cooler weather, it’s time to give your air conditioning system the attention it deserves before the spring heat arrives. At Patriot Heating & Air, we believe that preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your AC running efficiently, lowering energy costs, and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.
If you want to stay cool and comfortable this spring, follow these essential AC maintenance tips to get your system in top shape before the temperatures rise.
1. Swap Out Your Air Filters
Your HVAC system’s air filter plays a major role in keeping indoor air clean while ensuring proper airflow. Over time, dust, pet hair, and debris can clog the filter, making your AC work harder than necessary. We recommend checking your filter monthly and replacing it at least every 1–3 months, depending on how often you use your system and whether you have pets or allergies.
A clean filter not only improves efficiency but also helps maintain better air quality in your home.
2. Give Your Outdoor Unit Some TLC
Your outdoor AC unit (condenser) has likely collected dirt, leaves, and other debris over the winter. This buildup can block airflow and reduce efficiency.
Before you start running your AC regularly, take a few minutes to:
✔️ Remove any debris around the unit
✔️ Trim overgrown plants or bushes at least two feet away from the unit
✔️ Gently hose down the condenser coils to clear out dust and grime
A clean unit means better cooling performance and lower energy bills this spring!
3. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system, and making small adjustments now can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency.
🔹 Test your thermostat by switching it to cooling mode and making sure it responds properly.
🔹 If you’re still using a manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to optimize energy use and lower your cooling costs.
🔹 Set your thermostat to a comfortable but efficient temperature—78°F is ideal for warmer months.
A well-calibrated thermostat can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your AC.
4. Inspect Your Air Vents & Ductwork
Your ductwork plays a big role in delivering cool air throughout your home. Leaks, dust buildup, or blockages can make your AC work harder and cause uneven cooling.
🔸 Walk through your home and check that all vents are open and unobstructed.
🔸 Look for any visible gaps, cracks, or loose connections in your ductwork.
🔸 If you’ve noticed higher energy bills or weak airflow, you may have a leak that needs professional attention.
At Patriot Heating & Air, we can inspect your duct system and seal any leaks to help improve efficiency.
5. Turn Your AC On for a Test Run
Before the hot Santa Clarita sun kicks into full gear, turn on your AC and let it run for a few minutes. Pay attention to:
✔️ Unusual noises (buzzing, rattling, or squealing could signal a problem)
✔️ Weak airflow or warm air coming from vents
✔️ Unpleasant odors when the AC kicks on
If anything seems off, don’t wait until it gets worse—our HVAC technicians can diagnose and fix the issue before peak season begins.
6. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up
Even if your system seems to be working fine, routine maintenance is key to preventing costly repairs down the road. A professional AC tune-up ensures that all components are running efficiently, and it helps extend the life of your system.
At Patriot Heating & Air, our expert technicians provide thorough inspections, including:
✅ Checking refrigerant levels
✅ Cleaning coils and components
✅ Testing electrical connections
✅ Lubricating moving parts
✅ Ensuring optimal airflow and efficiency
A well-maintained AC is an efficient AC, meaning lower energy bills and a longer-lasting system.
Get Your AC Spring-Ready with Patriot Heating & Air!
Don’t wait until the first heatwave to find out your AC isn’t working properly! Spring is the perfect time to schedule an AC tune-up and ensure your system is ready for the months ahead.
At Patriot Heating & Air, we’re committed to keeping Santa Clarita, San Fernando Valley, and surrounding areas cool and comfortable all year long. 🌞❄️
📞 Call (661) 765-8955 to book your AC maintenance appointment today!