When summer hits Houston, the heat doesn’t hold back—and neither should your air conditioner. With temperatures often soaring above 90°F and humidity levels to match, a well-prepared AC system isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps to ensure your air conditioner is ready to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters

Clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and less efficiently. Check your filters every month and replace them at least every 1–3 months, especially during peak use in Houston's hot summers.

Tip: If you have pets or allergies, change your filters more frequently.

2. Clean the Outdoor Unit (Condenser)

Your outdoor condenser unit can accumulate dirt, leaves, and debris over the fall and winter. Before the summer heat kicks in:

Gently hose down the unit

Clear away any vegetation or obstructions around it (at least 2 feet)

Make sure the fan and fins are free from damage

Note: Be sure to shut off power to the unit before cleaning.

3. Check and Clean the Air Vents

Walk through your home and inspect all vents:

Make sure they’re open and unblocked by furniture or curtains

Clean off dust and debris that could impact air quality or airflow

Even small obstructions can lower your AC’s performance.

 4. Test the Thermostat

Before peak season, turn your AC on to make sure it’s cooling properly.

Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat

Set schedules to reduce energy use while you're away

Monitor for temperature inconsistencies throughout the house

5. Inspect Refrigerant Levels & Electrical Components

Low refrigerant or electrical issues can lead to poor cooling or system failure. While some issues are obvious (like warm air blowing), others require a professional eye.

That’s why this next step is key...

6. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

A preseason AC inspection is the best way to ensure your system is running efficiently and safely. At Time In Air, we offer comprehensive AC tune-ups in Houston and Katy that include:

Refrigerant level checks

Thermostat calibration

Electrical inspection

Coil and drain line cleaning

Airflow testing

 Regular maintenance can extend the life of your system and reduce your energy bills.

7. Consider an Upgrade if Your AC Is Aging

If your system is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time to consider a new, energy-efficient model. New AC units can significantly reduce your cooling costs and improve comfort during those brutal Houston heat waves.