When you live in Southern California, you know how quickly a hot day can turn into an uncomfortable ordeal if your air conditioner quits. It’s not just about comfort—heat waves can be downright dangerous, especially for children, seniors, and those with health conditions.
At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we see the same pattern every year: homeowners wait until the first scorching week to turn on their AC—only to find it blowing warm air or not working at all. By then, demand for repairs is high, wait times are long, and you’re left sweating it out.
The good news? Many of these breakdowns can be avoided with a bit of preventative care. Here’s how you can keep your home cool, efficient, and stress-free when the temperatures climb.
Start the Season with a Professional Tune-Up
Your air conditioner is like a car—it needs regular maintenance to perform its best. A professional tune-up with Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing ensures:
- Refrigerant levels are correct.
- Electrical connections are tight and safe.
- Moving parts are lubricated to reduce wear.
- Condenser and evaporator coils are clean for efficient heat transfer.
- The thermostat is calibrated for accurate temperature control.
This not only prevents breakdowns but can also lower your energy bills by making your system run more efficiently.
Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest ways to maintain your AC is to keep its air filter clean. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and overheat. Over time, this extra strain can lead to breakdowns or even system failure.
We recommend:
- Checking your filter monthly during heavy use.
- Replacing disposable filters or cleaning reusable ones every 1-3 months.
Clean filters improve not just system reliability but indoor air quality—a win-win for you and your family.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
Your AC’s outdoor condenser unit needs space to “breathe.” Overgrown plants, grass clippings, leaves, or even debris can block airflow and reduce cooling capacity.
Best practices include:
- Keeping at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit.
- Regularly clearing away debris.
- Avoiding planting bushes or vines too close to the unit.
If your condenser can’t effectively release heat, your system will struggle—and your energy bills will soar.
Don’t Ignore Small Problems
It’s easy to dismiss minor AC issues when it’s not too hot yet. But those little signs often turn into major failures right when you need cooling most.
Look out for:
- Strange noises like grinding or banging.
- Weak airflow from vents.
- Warm air instead of cool.
- Unexpected spikes in your energy bill.
Call Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing at (661) 760-7411 as soon as you notice something off. Catching and fixing issues early is almost always cheaper than waiting for a total breakdown.
Consider a Programmable Thermostat
Many AC breakdowns result from overuse during heat waves. A programmable thermostat helps balance comfort and efficiency by:
- Automatically adjusting temperatures when you’re away.
- Reducing strain on your system during peak hours.
- Maintaining a consistent, comfortable indoor climate.
At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we can help you choose and install a thermostat that fits your home and lifestyle.
Trust Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing for Reliable AC Service
Southern California summers are too hot to leave your comfort to chance. At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we specialize in preventative maintenance, repairs, and upgrades that keep your air conditioner reliable and efficient.
Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, an urgent repair, or expert advice on maximizing your system’s life span, our experienced technicians are ready to help.
Call us today at (661) 760-7411 to schedule your service and enjoy peace of mind all summer long. Stay cool, stay safe, and let us help you beat the heat before it hits!
