Summer in Fort Worth brings intense heat and high humidity, making a properly functioning air conditioning system essential for comfort and safety. Preparing your AC before temperatures peak helps prevent breakdowns, improves efficiency, and ensures your home stays cool throughout the season.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for Fort Worth homeowners to get their AC ready for summer.
1. Schedule a Professional AC Inspection
A pre-summer inspection helps catch minor problems before they become major:
- Technicians check refrigerant levels, electrical components, and airflow
- Coils, motors, and condensate drains are inspected and cleaned
- Early detection prevents costly repairs and keeps your system reliable
Scheduling a professional inspection ensures your AC operates at peak performance.
2. Replace or Clean Air Filters
Clean filters are crucial for efficient cooling:
- Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months depending on usage
- Use high-quality filters to capture dust, pollen, and allergens
- Ensure proper installation to avoid unfiltered air bypass
Maintaining clean filters improves airflow, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.
3. Check and Clear Outdoor Units
Outdoor AC units can become blocked by debris, plants, and dirt:
- Remove leaves, grass, and debris around the unit
- Ensure at least two feet of clearance on all sides for airflow
- Inspect for visible damage or wear from winter use
A clear and well-maintained outdoor unit improves system efficiency and prevents overheating.
4. Inspect Ductwork
Ducts carry cooled air throughout your home:
- Check for leaks, gaps, or disconnected sections
- Seal any leaks to prevent loss of cooled air
- Clean ducts if dust or mold is visible
Proper duct maintenance ensures even cooling and reduces energy waste.
5. Test Your Thermostat
The thermostat controls system efficiency and comfort:
- Verify it reads temperatures accurately
- Program schedules to reduce energy use when no one is home
- Consider a smart thermostat for automated temperature control
A properly set thermostat reduces energy costs while keeping your home comfortable.
6. Monitor Humidity Levels
Fort Worth summers are humid, which affects comfort and system performance:
- Use your AC’s dehumidification feature to maintain balanced humidity
- Consider portable dehumidifiers in high-moisture areas
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture
Balanced humidity prevents mold growth and improves indoor comfort.
7. Prepare for Emergency Situations
Unexpected breakdowns can happen even with preventive care:
- Keep a list of trusted HVAC professionals for quick service
- Know the location of shutoff valves and electrical switches
- Address minor issues promptly before they escalate
Being prepared ensures peace of mind during peak summer heat.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your AC for the Fort Worth summer is essential for comfort, efficiency, and safety. Regular inspections, clean filters, clear outdoor units, duct maintenance, thermostat checks, and humidity management all contribute to a reliable cooling system.
Take action now to ensure your AC keeps you cool all summer long.
