Map Pin icon
Serving Bend & Surrounding Areas
Home
/
Blog
/
How To Prepare Air Conditioner for the Summer

How To Prepare Air Conditioner for the Summer

mountain

The warm summer weather in Bend, OR will have you turning to your air conditioner for relief. To enjoy problem-free and cost-effective cooling, it’s important to prepare your air conditioner for the summer season. Read on for four tips to get your cooling system ready.

Trim Plants Around Your AC Unit for Better Airflow

During the summertime, outdoor vegetation grows quickly. Shrubs, flowers, and grass near the outdoor unit can block airflow. The unit needs at least three feet of clearance on all sides and above. Keep the vegetation, including tree branches, trimmed away from the unit.

  1. Change the Air Filter

A dirty AC filter reduces the system’s efficiency by 15% or more. Once each month, check the air filter. Replace it when you see debris buildup on the filter media. Don’t go longer than three months between air filter changes. If you’re unsure of where the filter is or how to access it, our dependable technicians can show you.

  1. Clean the Outdoor Unit

Pollen, dust, animal droppings, and other debris build up on the outdoor unit. Over time, this impedes the unit’s ability to release heat that it transfers out of your home. Once a month, turn off the power to your air conditioner. Use your garden hose to spray the outdoor unit’s housing. This removes dirt and debris.

  1. Schedule Professional Maintenance

If you haven’t yet scheduled your annual AC tune-up, now is the time to do it. An annual maintenance visit ensures that your air conditioner is operating at its peak performance level. Our skilled technicians clean the entire system, lubricate the motor and fans, check for signs of wear and tear, and verify the refrigerant level.

Mountain View Heating is the trusted company for air conditioner maintenance in Bend. We’re also available for heating system maintenance and heating and cooling repair, replacement, and installation. Our indoor air quality, ductwork, and zoned climate control systems keep your home clean, healthy, and comfortable. For more details on getting your air conditioner ready for summertime’s heat and humidity, contact us at Mountain View Heating today.

Deciding Between a Cold-Climate Heat Pump and a Gas Furnace for Bend Winters
Guide

Deciding Between a Cold-Climate Heat Pump and a Gas Furnace for Bend Winters

As fall temperatures drop, many homeowners face a critical choice for winter heating. Weigh the tradeoffs of modern electric systems versus traditional gas to find your ideal fit.

The Transition Period: Managing Frosty Mornings and 80-Degree Afternoons
Guide

The Transition Period: Managing Frosty Mornings and 80-Degree Afternoons

Wide 50-degree daily temperature swings can force your furnace and AC into a costly tug-of-war. A simple thermostat deadband adjustment stops this energy waste.

Diagnosing a Furnace That Smells Like Gas vs Normal Startup Odors
Guide

Diagnosing a Furnace That Smells Like Gas vs Normal Startup Odors

Turning on your heat for the first chilly fall night can bring alarming smells. We break down the exact differences between harmless burning dust and a dangerous natural gas leak.