In the Valley, our air conditioning isn’t just a luxury, it’s a survival tool. Whether you’re in Peoria, Surprise, or Sun City, you know that once the triple digits hit, your AC will be running nearly 24/7.
The worst time to find out your system is struggling is mid-July during a record-breaking heatwave. At Pro Solutions Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric, we’ve seen how a little bit of prep work can prevent a total system meltdown.
Before the monsoon dust and extreme heat arrive, use this 10-point checklist to make sure your home stays a cool sanctuary.
1. Swap the Air Filter
This is the simplest but most important step. Arizona dust is relentless. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your motor to work harder and increasing your utility bills. Change it every 30 days, especially during peak season!
2. Inspect the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Head outside and look at your unit. Clear away any dead weeds, desert debris, or trash that may have gathered around the base. Your unit needs at least two feet of clearance to “breathe” properly.
3. Check for “The Arizona Fin Clog”
Dust and caliche can coat the condenser coils, acting like an unwanted blanket that traps heat. Gently spray the coils with a garden hose (don’t use a power washer!) to wash away the grime.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Switch your system to “Cool” and lower the temp by 5 degrees. Does it kick on immediately? If you have an older manual thermostat, this might be the year to upgrade to a Smart Thermostat to help manage those high APS or SRP summer rates.
5. Clear the Condensate Drain Line
In our dry heat, any moisture in your drain line can mix with dust to create a “sludge” that clogs the pipe. A clogged drain line can lead to water damage inside your home or a system that shuts down automatically.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises
When your AC starts up, do you hear grinding, squealing, or banging? In the HVAC world, noise equals friction, and friction leads to broken parts.
7. Inspect Ductwork for Leaks
Are some rooms in your house significantly hotter than others? You might have a leak in your ducts. Why pay to cool your attic? Sealing leaks can save you money on cooling costs.
8. Check Your Insulation
If your insulation has settled or thinned out, your AC has to work double-time to keep up with the heat radiating through your roof. Ensure your attic has proper “R-value” protection.
9. Examine Electrical Connections
Arizona heat can actually cause wires to expand and contract, leading to loose connections. Ensure your breaker isn’t “tripping” frequently, which is a sign of an electrical pull that’s too high.
10. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
The best way to guarantee a worry-free summer is a professional inspection. At Pro Solutions, we don’t just “look” at it; we calibrate your system, check refrigerant levels, and ensure every component is functioning properly.
The “Pro Solutions” Advantage
Did you know we offer maintenance plans? It’s our way of ensuring our neighbors in the Phoenix area never have to deal with a midnight AC emergency. We offer Annual, Bi-Annual, and 5-Year maintenance plans to keep your system running at peak efficiency for as long as possible.
Don’t wait for the first 110° day! Call Pro Solutions Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric today at 623-250-2686 to schedule your pre-season tune-up.