Spring AC Checklist: 7 Things Austin Homeowners Should Do Before Summer Hits

Here's a simple seven-item spring AC checklist every Austin homeowner should run through before temperatures climb.

1. Replace Your Air Filter

Start here. If you haven't changed it since last fall, it's overdue. A clean filter is the foundation of efficient airflow all summer long. We covered this in detail in our tune-up checklist guide, but the short version is: check it now, replace it if you can't see light through it.

2. Clear Debris from the Outdoor Unit

Your condenser unit (the big box outside) needs at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Winter storms and spring growth can pile leaves, sticks, and overgrowth right up against the coils. Turn off the power to the unit, then gently clear any debris. Don't use a pressure washer; you can bend the fins.

3. Test Your Thermostat

Set your thermostat to cool and drop the temperature below the current room temp. Your AC should kick on within a minute or two. If it doesn't, check the batteries in your thermostat first; that's the most common culprit. Still nothing? Call us.

4. Check Your Vents and Registers

Walk through your home and make sure all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Furniture, rugs, and curtains commonly block vents, which throws off airflow balance and makes your system work harder. Don't close vents in unused rooms; it creates pressure problems that can damage ducts.

5. Pour a Cup of Water Down the Drain Line

Your AC removes humidity from the air, and that water drains through a condensate line. Pour a cup of water (with a little bleach mixed in) into the drain pan access point near your air handler. This clears algae buildup that causes clogs. A clogged drain line is one of the most common causes of AC shutdowns and water damage in summer.

6. Look for Ice on Your Lines or Unit

Turn your AC on and run it for 10 to 15 minutes, then check the copper refrigerant lines and the indoor unit for any frost or ice. Ice means restricted airflow or a refrigerant issue; both need professional attention before the season kicks into gear.

7. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

The first six items are things you can do yourself. This one is worth having a professional handle. A trained technician from Hank's AC Service will check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, clean coils, and catch issues that aren't visible to the naked eye. Spring is our busy season; scheduling early means shorter waits and cooler days.