Ac On Demand

Preparing Your AC for Summer in Birmingham: Remote Troubleshooting Tips

Jun 15, 2025By Cash McGraw
Cash McGraw

Why Prepare Your AC for Summer?

As the temperatures rise in Birmingham, ensuring your air conditioner is ready to tackle the heat is crucial. A well-maintained AC not only provides comfort but also operates more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your unit and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Before the summer heat sets in, it's important to perform a few checks and basic troubleshooting to ensure your AC is in top working condition. Here are some remote troubleshooting tips that can help you prepare your AC for the sweltering Birmingham summer.

air conditioner maintenance

Inspecting and Replacing Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your AC running smoothly is by regularly inspecting and replacing the air filters. Dirty or clogged filters can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and less effectively. This can lead to higher energy consumption and increased wear and tear on your unit.

Steps to Check Your Air Filter

  • Turn off your AC unit to ensure safety.
  • Locate the air filter, typically found in the return air duct or blower compartment.
  • Remove the filter and inspect it for dirt and debris.
  • If it's dirty, replace it with a new one. For optimal performance, choose a filter with a high MERV rating.

Regularly checking and replacing air filters every 1-3 months is recommended, especially during peak usage periods.

air filter

Checking Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat plays a critical role in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. Before summer arrives, ensure that your thermostat is working correctly and set to the appropriate settings. If you have a programmable thermostat, now is a good time to adjust the schedule for summer temperatures.

Troubleshooting Tips for Thermostats

  1. Verify that the thermostat is set to 'cool' mode.
  2. Check the temperature setting and adjust if necessary.
  3. If your thermostat is battery-operated, replace the batteries regularly.
  4. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for more precise control and energy savings.
thermostat settings

Clearing Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit of your AC system needs to be free from obstructions to operate efficiently. Over time, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around the unit, hindering airflow and potentially causing damage.

Steps to Clean the Outdoor Unit

  • Turn off the power to the unit at the breaker box.
  • Clear any debris from around the unit and ensure that there are at least two feet of clearance on all sides.
  • Use a garden hose to gently clean the fins and coils without damaging them.

By performing these simple maintenance tasks, you can enhance the performance of your AC unit and enjoy a cool and comfortable summer in Birmingham. Remember, if you encounter any significant issues, it's always best to contact a professional HVAC technician for assistance.

outdoor ac unit