As the snow melts and temperatures start to climb in Colorado Springs, it's time to shift your focus from heating to cooling. Prepping your AC system before summer hits full force is one of the smartest things you can do to ensure your home stays cool, your energy bills stay low, and your system runs without costly breakdowns.

At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we’ve been helping Colorado Springs homeowners keep their AC systems running strong for over 20 years. Here’s how to get your air conditioner ready for the heat—step by step.

✅ 1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter

A clean filter is essential for efficient airflow and indoor air quality. A dirty filter forces your AC to work harder, which can lead to breakdowns and higher energy bills.

Tip: Replace your filter every 1–3 months, especially during the summer when your system is running more often.

🧰 2. Clear Debris from Your Outdoor Unit

Over the winter, leaves, sticks, and dirt can pile up around your AC's outdoor condenser unit. This restricts airflow and makes it harder for your system to release heat.

What to do:

Remove leaves and debris
Trim back any plants at least 2–3 feet
Gently hose off the outside fins if dirty

Avoid bending the fins or using high-pressure washers—they can damage the unit.

📅 3. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

An annual AC inspection and tune-up is one of the best ways to prevent surprise breakdowns and costly repairs. Our Colorado Springs AC maintenance services include:

Checking refrigerant levels
Cleaning coils and components
Testing thermostat accuracy
Inspecting electrical connections
Verifying safe and efficient operation

Bonus: A well-maintained AC runs more efficiently, saving you money all summer long.

🌡️ 4. Test Your Thermostat

Before the heat sets in, test your thermostat to make sure it’s working properly. Set it to “cool” and lower the temperature by a few degrees. You should hear your AC kick on within a minute or two.

Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. It can help you save on cooling costs by adjusting temperatures automatically when you're away.

🕵️ 5. Check Your Air Vents and Ductwork

Walk through your home and make sure all vents are open and unblocked. Furniture, curtains, or rugs that cover vents can restrict airflow and reduce comfort.

Also keep an eye out for signs of leaky ducts, like uneven temperatures or higher-than-usual utility bills. A duct inspection can help catch inefficiencies early.

⚠️ 6. Know the Warning Signs

It’s easier to fix a problem early than deal with a full breakdown during a heatwave. Keep an eye out for these signs your AC may need repair:

Weak airflow
Warm air blowing from vents
Strange noises (buzzing, rattling, or banging)
Unusual smells
Frequent cycling on and off

If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a trusted Colorado Springs HVAC technician before it gets worse.

🛠️ Get Summer-Ready with Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical

When you prep your AC system early, you’re investing in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind. At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we offer affordable AC tune-ups, repairs, and replacements tailored to Colorado Springs homes and weather.

✅ Locally owned & operated
✅ Licensed, experienced technicians
✅ Same-day service available
✅ Honest, upfront pricing

📞 Ready for Summer? Call Us Today!

We also offer AC Repair in the following areas:

How to Prep Your AC System for a Colorado Springs Summer