After a long, cold winter, you’ll have a list of things to do around the house to get ready for the summer. You’ll probably get out the barbeque soon, and if you have a green thumb, you’ll be anxious to start planting your seasonal garden in the backyard.

Many people often forget to check their air conditioner before the hot weather hits. A couple of professional AC check-ups every year will prevent any possible breakdowns or compressor damage. A neglected AC unit can become a place for bacteria and mould to increase. As the air pulls over the coils in the air conditioner, those harmful particles can float into the air that you breathe in your home.

It’s critical to hire professional air conditioning services this summer, and now is the best time to do it, as it’s still early in the season. Read on to discover how to prepare your air conditioner for the coming months.

Get to Know Your Air Conditioner

Do you know the difference between a compressor and an evaporator? Before you tackle any AC maintenance, speak with a professional who can show you the ins and outs of your unit. You won’t want to accidentally remove or clean the wrong part, as it could be extremely hazardous.

Most central ACs have two basic parts: an outdoor unit (condenser/ compressor) that lives next to your house and an indoor unit (evaporator) located in a central duct close to your furnace. If you have a heat pump, the indoor unit will be in the air handler.

Clean or Change the Filters

Improve the efficiency of your AC unit by replacing or cleaning the air filters routinely. The best way to keep your air conditioner healthy for a long time is to change the filters every month. If you’re unsure of the type of filter to use, contact your local heating and cooling contractors — they can recommend one based on your specific system.

Depending on the type of unit you have, your contractor will replace or clean the filter. Some filters require a little more attention than others, if, for example, you have pets in the house or if the AC will be in constant use during the summer. They’ll also give you tips on how to check on the filters throughout the year without their assistance.

Clean the Coils

Over time, your air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils collect dirt and debris. The dust reduces airflow and insulates the coil, decreasing its ability to absorb heat. Condenser coils on the outside can also become dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there are trees or shrubs nearby. The right contractor will check your coils and clean them to ensure that they’re in excellent shape.

Although you spend a lot of time outside during the summer months, a cool, refreshing home is essential on those blistering hot days. Turn your home into a comfortable and healthy one with a professional air conditioner maintenance check-up this month.