← Back to Blog

Texas summers are no joke. With temperatures regularly hitting triple digits in San Antonio, your HVAC system is the only thing standing between you and serious discomfort — or worse, heat-related health risks. Here's a pre-season checklist to make sure your system is ready.

Change Your Air Filter

This is the simplest and most impactful thing you can do. A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, reduces airflow, and can lead to frozen coils. During peak summer, check your filter monthly and replace it every 30-60 days depending on your household (pets, allergies, and household size all factor in).

Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

Your condenser unit (the big box outside) needs at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides to breathe properly. Trim back bushes, remove debris, and hose down the fins to clear any dirt or grass clippings. A blocked condenser reduces efficiency and can cause overheating.

Test Your System Before You Need It

Don't wait until the first 100-degree day to find out your AC isn't working. Run your system on a mild day and check for:

• Cool air coming from all vents
• Consistent airflow throughout the house
• No unusual sounds or smells
• Thermostat responding correctly

Check Your Thermostat Settings

If you're still using an old mercury thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. Setting your home to 78 degrees when you're home and 85 degrees when you're away can cut cooling costs by 10-15% without sacrificing comfort.

Inspect Your Ductwork

Leaky ducts can waste 20-30% of your cooled air before it ever reaches your rooms. Check visible ductwork in your attic or crawl space for obvious gaps, disconnections, or damage. If rooms in your house are consistently warmer than others, duct leaks are a likely culprit.

Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

A professional maintenance visit covers everything you can't see or do yourself — checking refrigerant levels, testing electrical connections, cleaning the evaporator coil, calibrating the thermostat, and inspecting the blower motor. This single appointment can prevent breakdowns, extend your system's life, and keep your energy bills in check.

When to Consider Replacement

If your system is over 10-15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or uses the now-phased-out R-22 refrigerant, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a modern, high-efficiency unit. Newer systems can cut your cooling costs by 30-50% and come with warranties that protect your investment.