May Maintenance Checklist: Is Your A/C Ready for the First Heatwave?
The days are getting longer, the sun is shining a little brighter, and before you know it, the first Iowa heatwave will be knocking on your door. May is the perfect time to prepare your air conditioner for the hard work it’s about to do all summer long.
At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen too many homeowners wait until it’s already 90 degrees outside to discover their A/C isn’t working. Don’t let that be you. A little maintenance now can save you from sweat, stress, and emergency service calls later. Use this simple checklist to make sure your system is ready for the season.
1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter
Air filters collect dust, pollen, and pet dander. A dirty filter restricts airflow and reduces your system’s efficiency. It also increases your energy bill and makes your A/C work harder than it should.
✅ Check your filter monthly
✅ Replace or clean it at least every 60 to 90 days
✅ Consider high-efficiency filters if you have allergies or pets
2. Clear Debris from the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit needs space and airflow to do its job. Leaves, grass clippings, and other debris can build up around it over the winter and spring.
✅ Clear at least two feet around the unit
✅ Gently rinse off the coils with a hose
✅ Make sure nothing is blocking the airflow
3. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat should be set to cooling mode and functioning properly. Now is also a good time to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat if you haven’t already.
✅ Make sure the display is working
✅ Set a comfortable temperature for the season
✅ Program energy-saving settings for when you’re not home
4. Test the System Early
Don’t wait until the hottest day of the month to turn on your A/C. Run the system for 10 to 15 minutes to check for proper operation. If you notice warm air, strange smells, or loud noises, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.
✅ Make sure cool air is blowing
✅ Listen for any unusual sounds
✅ Take note of any odd smells or poor airflow
5. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up
An annual A/C tune-up helps extend the life of your system and keeps it running efficiently. Our technicians at Obsidian Heating & Cooling will inspect your entire system, clean key components, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything is working as it should.
✅ Boosts energy efficiency
✅ Helps prevent breakdowns
✅ Gives you peace of mind heading into summer
Bonus Tip: Check for Duct Leaks
Leaky ducts waste cooled air and force your system to work harder. This leads to uneven cooling, higher energy bills, and extra wear on your equipment. If you notice inconsistent temperatures between rooms, it could be a sign that your ducts need attention.
✅ Look for disconnected or damaged ductwork
✅ Schedule a duct inspection for peace of mind
✅ Seal leaks to improve performance
Stay Cool with Help from Obsidian Heating & Cooling
Don’t wait for the first heatwave to find out your A/C needs help. Use this May maintenance checklist to get ahead of the heat and keep your home cool, efficient, and comfortable all summer long.
Call Obsidian Heating & Cooling today to schedule your spring tune-up or A/C inspection. We’ll make sure your system is ready so you can enjoy every sunny day without breaking a sweat.
