Seasonal AC Maintenance Checklist for Rogers Homeowners

Rogers homeowners know that Arkansas weather can be unpredictable. One day, you’re enjoying a mild spring breeze, and the next, you’re cranking up the air conditioning to beat the summer heat. Regular maintenance keeps your AC system running smoothly when you need it most.

Experienced HVAC technicians—like the team at Anderson Air—offer year-round support to help Rogers homeowners keep their cooling systems in top shape. But there are also simple steps you can take between professional visits to keep your unit in top shape.

Using this seasonal maintenance checklist can help you prevent issues before they arise and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.

Spring preparation: getting ready for the cooling season

Spring is the perfect time to prepare your AC system for the hot months ahead. Begin your maintenance routine early to prevent emergency repairs during the peak summer heat.

Clean and replace air filters

Check your air filters monthly during the cooling season. Clogged filters can restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder. Change standard filters every one to three months, depending on how frequently your system operates and whether your home has pets or allergy concerns.

High-efficiency filters may last longer, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keeping the filter clean boosts indoor air quality and allows your system to operate more efficiently.

Clear the outdoor unit

Clear away leaves, grass clippings, branches, and other debris surrounding your outdoor condenser unit. Keep surrounding vegetation neatly trimmed to provide at least two feet of space on every side of the unit.

Using a garden hose, carefully wash the condenser coils by spraying from the inside of the unit outward. This helps clear away dirt and debris that may hinder the system’s performance. Always turn off the power to the unit before cleaning.

Summer maintenance: keeping cool during peak season

Summer puts the most stress on your AC system. Regular checks during this season help prevent breakdowns when you need cooling most.

Monitor system performance

Pay attention to how your system operates. Notice any unusual sounds, odors, or changes in cooling performance. Ice formation on the unit, warm air from vents, or significantly higher energy bills can indicate problems.

Ensure that all vents throughout your home are open and unobstructed. Closed vents can create pressure imbalances and strain your system.

Inspect ductwork

Look for visible ductwork in basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Check for disconnected joints, holes, or damaged insulation. Leaky ducts waste energy and reduce cooling efficiency.

Feel around duct connections for air leaks. Professional duct sealing may be necessary if you encounter significant issues.

Fall preparation: transitioning to heating season

Conducting fall maintenance prepares your system for winter by addressing any issues that may have arisen during the warmer months.

Schedule a professional inspection

Fall is an ideal time for professional maintenance. Technicians can clean internal components, check refrigerant levels, and identify potential problems before they become major repairs.

Professional maintenance includes tasks that homeowners can’t safely perform, such as inspecting electrical components and calibrating systems.

Protect your outdoor unit

Remove any debris that accumulated during the fall. Consider covering the top of your outdoor unit to prevent leaves from falling into it, but never completely cover the sides. Full covers can trap moisture and cause corrosion.

Ensure the area around your unit drains properly to prevent water accumulation during the winter months.

Winter care: maintaining your system during the off-season

Even when not in use, your AC system requires attention during the winter months.

Keep the unit clear

Remove snow and ice from around your outdoor unit. Ice buildup can damage components and restrict airflow when you restart the system in spring.

Check that the unit remains level. Ground settling or ice can cause the unit to shift, potentially affecting its proper operation.

Test your system

On milder winter days, briefly test your AC system to ensure it still operates correctly. This helps identify problems before you need cooling again.

Listen for unusual sounds and check that air flows properly from vents. Address any issues during the off-season when repair schedules are more flexible.

Year-round maintenance tips

Some maintenance tasks are applicable throughout the year, regardless of the season.

Programmable thermostat management

Use a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy usage. Set the temperature higher when you’re away from home during the cooling season.

Replace thermostat batteries annually, typically at the same time you change your smoke detector batteries. Dead batteries can cause system malfunctions.

Professional maintenance schedule

Schedule professional maintenance twice a year – ideally, once before the summer and once before the winter. Regular professional service extends the equipment’s life and maintains its efficiency.

Professional technicians can identify problems early, often saving money on major repairs. They also possess the tools and expertise to perform maintenance tasks that exceed the capabilities of homeowners.

Signs that require professional attention

While homeowners can handle basic maintenance, some situations require professional help.

Refrigerant issues

If your system isn’t cooling properly or you notice ice formation, you may have refrigerant problems. Refrigerant handling requires special equipment and certification.

Low refrigerant levels usually indicate a leak that requires professional repair. Adding refrigerant without fixing leaks is a waste of money and doesn’t address the underlying problem.

Electrical problems

Professionals should handle any electrical issues. This includes problems with the thermostat, control panels, or electrical connections of the outdoor unit.

Signs of electrical problems include frequent circuit breaker trips, burning odors, or the system failing to respond to thermostat commands.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance protects your investment and ensures reliable cooling when Arkansas temperatures soar. Following this seasonal checklist helps prevent many common AC problems and extends your system’s lifespan.

Remember that professional maintenance complements your efforts. Experienced technicians can spot potential issues early and perform complex maintenance tasks that keep your system running efficiently. Stay proactive with your AC maintenance, and enjoy reliable cooling comfort throughout the year.