Hot Weather Home Maintenance: AC Care & Summer Prep Tips

As temperatures rise, your air conditioner becomes your home’s lifeline for comfort. With proper maintenance and preparation, you can avoid mid-summer breakdowns, reduce energy bills, and ensure your family stays cool and safe all season long.

Here’s your expert guide to summer prep, featuring AC maintenance tips and essential services from Four Seasons Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric — your trusted local partner for year-round comfort.

1. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Your AC system works overtime during the summer. Just like a car, it needs regular maintenance to run efficiently and reliably.

A professional AC tune-up from Four Seasons includes:

• Full system inspection and cleaning
• Refrigerant level check and adjustments
• Electrical and thermostat testing
• Filter replacement and airflow optimization

Why it matters: Regular tune-ups reduce breakdowns, cut cooling costs, and extend the life of your system.

2. Clean and Inspect Ductwork

Your duct system delivers cool air throughout your home. Dirty or leaky ducts force your AC to work harder — and compromise indoor air quality.

Professional duct cleaning helps:

• Remove dust, pollen, and allergens
• Improve airflow and efficiency
• Eliminate stale or musty odors
• Boost overall air quality during allergy season

Tip: If you notice uneven cooling or extra dust, it’s time for a duct inspection.

3. Flush Your Water Heater (Yes, Even in Summer!)

While your water heater isn’t tied to your AC, sediment buildup can cause year-round inefficiency and problems.

A summer flush helps:

• Prevent unexpected outages
• Improve efficiency during peak usage months
• Ensure reliable hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry

4. Replace or Upgrade Your Thermostat

Maximize your cooling efficiency by using a programmable or smart thermostat. This simple upgrade can reduce energy costs by up to 10%.

Do this:

• Replace batteries in older thermostats
• Set summer schedules to cool efficiently when home and conserve while away
• Upgrade to a smart model for remote access and automation

5. Replace Air Filters Regularly

Dirty filters choke airflow and cause your AC to work harder than it should.

Filter tips:

• Check filters every 30–60 days during peak cooling season
• Choose the right filter rating for your home’s needs
• Set reminders to stay on schedule

Neglecting filters is one of the top causes of poor cooling and frozen coils.

6. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate to Keep Cool Air In

Keep cool air where it belongs by sealing gaps around windows, doors, and ducts.

Smart fixes include:

• Weatherstripping and caulking
• Insulating attic spaces and ductwork
• Installing door sweeps and thermal window film

A sealed home cools faster, holds temperature longer, and reduces energy costs.

7. Check Your Outdoor Condenser Unit

Your outdoor AC unit needs space to breathe. Keep it clean and clear for optimal performance.

What to do:

• Remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris
• Trim bushes at least 2 feet around the unit
• Have a professional clean the condenser coil during your AC tune-up

8. Ensure Proper Drainage and Avoid Water Damage

Your AC removes moisture from the air — and that water has to go somewhere. A clogged condensate drain can lead to water damage or mold.

Let a Pro:

• Check the condensate line
• Clear clogs
• Ensure proper drainage away from your foundation

When you schedule a tune-up with Four Seasons, you’ll receive our 22-Point Air Conditioner Precision Tune-Up, which includes:

The Four Seasons 22-Point AC Tune-Up Includes:

1. Test thermostat operation
2. Check air filter condition
3. Clean or replace standard filter
4. Inspect and tighten electrical connections
5. Test capacitor performance
6. Test compressor and motor amp draw
7. Inspect contactor
8. Inspect relays and electrical board
9. Inspect condenser coil
10. Inspect evaporator coil (if accessible)
11. Inspect condensate drain and flush
12. Inspect blower wheel
13. Test and calibrate temperature differential
14. Lubricate moving parts (if applicable)
15. Test fan motor and blades
16. Check for refrigerant leaks
17. Measure refrigerant pressure
18. Inspect insulation on refrigerant lines
19. Check and test disconnect box
20. Measure voltage and amperage of motors
21. Inspect ductwork for air loss
22. Provide full system performance report

This comprehensive check ensures peak system performance, energy efficiency, and peace of mind for your family.

9. Energy-Saving Tips for Summer

Want to stay cool without overpaying?

• Set your thermostat to 78°F when home and a few degrees higher when away
• Use ceiling fans to circulate air
• Close blinds during the day to block sunlight
• Avoid using heat-generating appliances during peak hours

Stay Cool with Help from Four Seasons

Summer comfort starts with your AC and Four Seasons has you covered.

We offer:

• Air conditioner tune-ups and repairs
• Duct cleaning and inspections
• Thermostat upgrades and installations
• 24/7 emergency cooling service
• Plumbing, electric, and generator solutions

With over 180,000 homeowners served every year and more than 30,000 5-star reviews, Four Seasons Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electric is the most trusted name in Chicago for year-round comfort.

Call 1-866-4SEASON (1-866-473-2766) to schedule service or book online.