When the Louisiana heat cranks up, a reliable air conditioner isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air here in Denham Springs, LA, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when systems aren’t maintained. That’s exactly why we’ve put together this AC maintenance checklist to help homeowners stay ahead of the curve. Regular care keeps your system running efficiently, lowers energy costs, and helps prevent breakdowns when you need cool air most.
Whether you’re tackling it yourself or scheduling professional service, this guide will walk you through everything you should include in your routine.
Why You Need an AC Maintenance Checklist
We’ve had countless service calls from folks surprised by their unit breaking down in the middle of summer. But more often than not, those problems could’ve been avoided. Having a consistent AC maintenance checklist means you’re taking the right steps to extend your system’s life and performance.
Moreover, it gives you peace of mind. You’re not just reacting to problems—you’re preventing them. And that’s always the better route.
Start Your AC Maintenance Checklist with Safety First
Safety comes first. Before you do any hands-on work with your unit, shut off the power. It may sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step.
Go to your breaker box and flip the switch for your AC unit. Then double-check by attempting to power it on from the thermostat. Once you know it’s off, you’re good to go.
AC Maintenance Checklist: Outdoor Unit Tasks
Let’s start with the condenser unit outside your home. This part does the heavy lifting, especially in our Denham Springs summers.
1. Clear Away Debris
Over time, leaves, grass clippings, and dirt can pile up around your unit. We recommend clearing a two-foot radius around the condenser for proper airflow.
2. Check the Fins
The metal fins on your condenser can get bent or clogged. Carefully brush them with a fin comb or soft brush to straighten them out. This helps improve air exchange and keeps your unit efficient.
3. Clean the Coils
Dirty coils force your AC to work harder. Use a coil cleaner or a garden hose on a low-pressure setting to rinse them off. Be gentle—too much force can bend the fins.
4. Level the Unit
The pad your unit sits on can shift or sink over time. Make sure the condenser is sitting level to avoid putting stress on the compressor inside.
AC Maintenance Checklist: Indoor Unit Essentials
Next up is the indoor portion of your system. That’s where the cool air gets pushed through your vents. Here’s what to include on this part of the AC maintenance checklist.
1. Change the Air Filter
This is one of the simplest, yet most effective, maintenance tasks. A clean filter improves airflow and air quality. We usually tell homeowners in Denham Springs to swap it out every 1 to 3 months.
2. Clean the Evaporator Coil
This coil sits inside the air handler or attached to the furnace. Over time, it collects dust and mold. Gently clean it with a soft brush or no-rinse coil cleaner.
3. Inspect the Drain Line
A clogged condensate drain can cause water damage and mold. Flush it with a mix of water and vinegar to keep it clear.
Inspect the Thermostat and Controls
While often overlooked, your thermostat plays a big role in your AC’s performance. If it’s not reading temperatures correctly, your system won’t cool properly.
Double-check the settings and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. We install these all the time for customers looking to save energy and money.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Not all systems need this, but if yours has parts like motors or fans that require oiling, don’t skip it. Lack of lubrication increases friction and wear. That can shorten your system’s life over time.
Tighten Electrical Connections
Loose or corroded electrical components are a safety hazard. If you feel confident, check the system’s wiring for signs of wear or looseness. Otherwise, give us a call—we’re happy to take care of it for you.
Check System Start-Up Cycle
Once everything’s cleaned and inspected, power the unit back on. Let it run for a full cooling cycle. Pay attention to how it starts, runs, and shuts off. Odd noises or short cycling are signs something still isn’t right.
Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up
Even if you’re checking off everything on your AC maintenance checklist, some tasks require a licensed technician. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air, we perform a full system diagnostic, refrigerant level check, airflow analysis, and more during our tune-ups.
Especially here in Denham Springs, where humidity can add extra strain on your system, professional maintenance really pays off.
How Often Should You Use This AC Maintenance Checklist?
Ideally, you should go through this AC maintenance checklist at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. That way, you’re ready before the cooling and heating seasons kick in.
Some tasks like changing filters or checking drain lines may need more frequent attention, especially during peak summer.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Maintenance Log
We always suggest our customers jot down what was done and when. That log can help you spot patterns or recurring issues—and it helps us when we service your system too.
Why Homeowners in Denham Springs Trust Summers Comfort
We’re a local team that lives and works in this community. When you call Summers Comfort Heating & Air, you’re not just getting a service—you’re getting a partner who cares about your comfort year-round. We bring experience, honesty, and top-tier customer service to every job.
Final Thoughts: Use This AC Maintenance Checklist Year-Round
Following this AC maintenance checklist can truly make a difference in how your system performs and how long it lasts. With just a little time and attention, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your Denham Springs home cool and comfortable—even when summer’s at its worst.
Need a hand with your next AC tune-up? Give us a call at (225) 394-9541 or reach out online. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air, we’re always here to help.
