How to Prepare Your AC for the First Heat Wave

As temperatures climb with the season’s first heat wave, your air conditioner is asked to do more work than it will on milder days. A little preparation now can help prevent common problems—like poor airflow, frozen coils, or system shutdowns—when demand spikes.

Start with the simplest win: check and replace the air filter. A clogged filter can restrict airflow, make the system less efficient, and cause the indoor coil to overcool and freeze. If the filter looks dirty or has been in place for more than about one to three months (depending on usage and indoor air quality), replace it with the correct size and rating.