How to Prepare Your AC for a Heatwave

When the forecast screams triple digits, panic sets in for homeowners and businesses alike. Air conditioners become the unsung heroes of summer—until they quit. At Right On AC, we know a smooth-running cooling system can mean the difference between comfort and chaos.

Let’s walk through how to prepare your AC for a heatwave, so you can keep your cool when the heat is relentless.

Why Prep for Heatwaves 🌡️

Heatwaves aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous. According to the CDC, extreme heat causes more weather-related deaths than any other hazard. For many, a reliable cooling system is essential for health and productivity.

An AC that's not ready for the challenge can freeze up, trip breakers, or worse—fail when you need it most. With a little preparation, you can reduce the risk of a mid-summer breakdown and keep your home or business safe and comfortable.

AC Maintenance Checklist

Think of your air conditioner like a marathon runner. Would you run 26 miles without training? Your AC shouldn’t face a heatwave without a little prep either.

Here’s your quick checklist:

• Change or clean the filters. Dirty filters choke airflow and force your system to work harder. Swap them out every 1–3 months.
• Check the thermostat settings. Make sure it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature matches your comfort level.
• Clear debris from around the outdoor unit. Leaves, grass, and dirt block airflow. Keep at least two feet of clearance.
• Inspect vents and registers. Make sure they’re open and not blocked by furniture or curtains.
• Look for signs of wear. Listen for odd noises, check for leaks, and watch for ice on coils.
• Test your system early. Don’t wait until the heatwave hits—run your AC now and see how it performs.

For a more comprehensive assessment, consider a AC Maintenance or indoor air quality (IAQ) check.

Settings and Usage Tips

Smart usage can help your AC run stronger, longer.

• Set your thermostat higher when you’re away. 78°F is a good balance for energy savings and comfort.
• Use programmable thermostats. Schedule temperature changes to match occupancy and activity.
• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day. Keep the sun from heating up your space.
• Seal windows and doors. Prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from creeping in.
• Run ceiling fans. Moving air feels cooler and helps your AC distribute cold air.

When to Schedule a Professional Tune-Up 🧰

Not every issue is a quick fix. Sometimes, calling a pro is the best way to avoid disaster.

Call for professional AC maintenance if:

• You notice weak airflow, odd smells, or loud noises.
• The unit cycles on and off constantly.
• Your energy bills spike for no clear reason.
• You haven’t had a tune-up in the last year.
• You’re preparing for an especially hot season or have an older system.

A professional technician from Right On AC will check refrigerant levels, clean evaporator and condenser coils, inspect electrical systems, and test safety controls—just to name a few. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular AC maintenance improves efficiency and extends system life.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you touch anything, safety comes first.

• Turn off power at the breaker before checking or cleaning any components.
• Wear gloves and eye protection when handling filters or clearing debris.
• Be cautious with electrical connections—never attempt repairs beyond your comfort level.

When in doubt, let a certified technician handle electrical or refrigerant issues.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some things are safe and simple for homeowners or business owners:

• Replacing filters
• Cleaning around the outdoor unit
• Checking thermostat batteries

But when it comes to refrigerant, wiring, or diagnosing strange noises, it’s time to bring in a licensed HVAC professional. Attempting complex repairs on your own can void warranties or create hazards.

Prevention & Maintenance: The Year-Round Approach

Heatwaves aren’t the only time to think about AC health. Schedule regular maintenance every spring before the heat ramps up. Include:

• Full system inspections
• Duct cleaning and air balancing
• Filter replacements
• Thermostat calibration

Right On AC can help with everything from AC Maintenance to IAQ testing and dehumidifiers. Keep your system in peak condition for every season.

Costs & Time Factors

Worried about cost or downtime? Routine AC maintenance is much cheaper than emergency repairs. Most tune-ups take an hour or two and can prevent more expensive issues down the road.

The cost of a typical tune-up varies based on system size, age, and location. For specifics, contact your local cooling professionals.

When It’s an Emergency

If your AC stops working during a heatwave, it’s not just inconvenient—it can be a health risk. Call for 24-hour emergency service if:

• The unit won’t turn on at all.
• You notice burning smells or see smoke.
• There’s a sudden, loud clanking or banging noise.
• Water is pooling around the indoor unit.

Prompt action can prevent further damage and keep your space safe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫

• Ignoring warning signs. Strange noises, weak airflow, or musty smells are all red flags.
• Skipping regular maintenance. This is the fastest way to shorten your AC’s lifespan.
• Blocking vents. Furniture or rugs can disrupt airflow and make your AC work harder.
• Setting the thermostat too low. Dropping it to 60°F won’t cool your space any faster—it just wastes energy.

Signs of Trouble

Keep an eye (and ear) out for:

• Uneven cooling
• Frequent cycling
• Ice on the coils
• Unusual spikes in energy bills

If you notice any of these, schedule an AC inspection with a cooling contractor before the heatwave arrives.

Timeline & Disruption: What to Expect

A professional tune-up is quick. Most visits last 1–2 hours with minimal disruption. For larger repairs or installations, plan for more time—but a well-prepped home or business can keep functioning smoothly.

Materials and Equipment Checklist

To prep your AC, gather:

• New filters (check your system’s size)
• Soft brush and garden hose for cleaning coils
• Screwdriver for vent covers
• Thermostat batteries

Leave refrigerant, electrical, and deep-cleaning tasks to your technician.

FAQ: Your Heatwave AC Questions Answered

How often should I schedule maintenance?
At least once a year, ideally before summer.

Can I use my AC during a power outage?
No, but Right On AC offers Generator Installation near you to keep critical systems powered.

Is duct cleaning really necessary?
Yes—dust and debris can hurt airflow and air quality. Schedule it as part of your regular maintenance plan.

Where can I find reliable cooling services?
If you need dependable cooling in your area, see our AC Repair page for more info.

Seasonal Considerations

Remember: extreme weather isn’t limited to summer. Prepare your system for seasonal changes with:

• Fall and spring tune-ups
• Filter changes before heavy pollen seasons
• Humidifier and dehumidifier checks

A little planning keeps your system ready for anything.

Call Right On AC now — or reach us anytime at  888-836-1269 .