Summer in Louisiana is no joke. There are long stretches of high heat, heavy humidity, and the occasional severe storm. It’s absolutely essential that your air conditioning system is ready to handle the workload. A little preparation and AC maintenance in Covington, LA can go a long way toward avoiding mid-summer breakdowns. It’ll also lower your energy bills and keep your home comfortable and safe. Here’s how to get your AC system ready for the Southern summer heat.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
The most important step you can take is to schedule professional AC maintenance with our experienced team. A licensed technician will inspect your system top to bottom—checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, tightening connections, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring everything is operating safely and efficiently. Preventative maintenance helps catch small issues before they become costly problems and ensures your AC is running at peak performance when you need it most. Don’t wait for a breakdown—book your tune-up with us now to beat the heat.
Change Your Air Filter Monthly
In Louisiana, high humidity and airborne allergens can clog your air filter faster than you might think. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and use more energy. It also reduces indoor air quality. Make a habit of checking your filter every month and replacing it as needed—especially during heavy cooling season. This simple step helps protect your system and keep your indoor air fresher and healthier.
Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear
Your AC’s outdoor condenser unit needs plenty of breathing room to function properly. Check the area around your unit regularly and remove any leaves, grass clippings, or other debris. Trim back any shrubs or plants so there’s at least two feet of clearance on all sides. This helps the system dissipate heat effectively, which is crucial in the Louisiana climate.
Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Air
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, but they do make your space feel cooler by circulating the air and helping your body stay comfortable. This allows you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Set your fans to spin counterclockwise in summer for the best effect.
Consider a Whole-House Dehumidifier
Humidity in Louisiana can make even moderate temperatures feel sweltering. A whole-house dehumidifier works alongside your AC to pull excess moisture from the air, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while reducing the strain on your cooling system. Having one of these systems professionally installed is an excellent investment that pays off in both comfort and energy savings.
Seal Leaks and Block Heat Gain
Don’t let your cool air leak out or the hot air come in. Seal up drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk. Cover sun-facing windows with blackout curtains, reflective shades, or UV-filtering films to reduce heat gain. These simple adjustments help your AC work less and save you money.
Program or Upgrade Your Thermostat
Set your thermostat to automatically adjust when you’re away or asleep. Better yet, upgrade to a smart thermostat that learns your habits and optimizes comfort and efficiency. A properly programmed thermostat can cut cooling costs without sacrificing comfort.
Need help getting your AC ready for summer? Schedule your seasonal tune-up with our expert HVAC team today. We’ll make sure your system is ready to keep you cool all summer long—no stress, no surprise breakdowns. Let’s beat the heat together!
When you need it done right, contact Professional Heating & Air.