Is Your AC Ready for Summer? 6 Things to Check Before It Gets Too Hot
In Phoenix, Arizona, summer doesn’t ease in—it shows up fast and strong. When triple-digit temperatures become the norm, your air conditioner becomes your home’s most valuable asset.
But if your AC hasn’t been checked in a while, it might be one step away from an inconvenient—and expensive—breakdown.
At APES HVAC & Plumbing, we help homeowners across the Phoenix Valley and surrounding areas stay ahead of the heat. Before summer kicks into full gear, use this easy checklist to make sure your system is in top shape.
1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter
A clogged or dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of AC problems—and luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to fix.
Why it matters:
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A clean filter helps your system “breathe,” keeping airflow strong and energy bills lower.
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Dirty filters force your unit to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan.
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It also helps reduce allergens and dust in your home’s air.
How often to replace:
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Every 1–3 months depending on usage, pets, and dust levels in your home.
Pro tip: Make a calendar reminder or change it every time the seasons shift.
2. Test Your Thermostat (It Might Be Smarter Than You Think)
Many homeowners don’t realize that thermostat issues are behind their cooling problems.
Here’s what to check:
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Make sure it responds when you change the temperature.
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Is it set to “Cool” and “Auto” mode?
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If it’s programmable, are the settings optimized for comfort and savings?
Why upgrade to a smart thermostat:
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Better control from your phone
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Weekly and monthly usage reports
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Savings of up to 15% on energy bills
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You can set it to adjust automatically when you’re not home—perfect for Arizona heat
Need help installing or programming one? We can handle it during a maintenance visit.
3. Inspect Your Outdoor AC Unit
Your outdoor unit (condenser) works hard in the sun—and since it sits outside all year, it’s prone to getting dirty or blocked.
Here’s what to do:
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Remove debris like leaves, weeds, dirt, or nests.
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Use a hose (gently!) to rinse off dust on the metal fins.
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Check that no fencing, bushes, or clutter is blocking airflow.
Signs something’s wrong:
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You hear loud buzzing or clunking
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Ice buildup on the unit
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The fan isn’t spinning
If you notice these issues, call a pro. Don’t wait for it to get worse.
4. Feel the Airflow — And Trust Your Senses
This step is easy: trust your nose, ears, and hands.
Here’s what to look for:
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Air should feel cool within a few minutes of turning on the system.
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The airflow should be strong—not weak or inconsistent.
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Listen for clanging, grinding, or rattling sounds.
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Smell for anything musty, smoky, or moldy.
These are early warning signs that your AC is struggling and could break down when you need it most.
5. Inspect the Drain Line and Pan
Air conditioners remove humidity from the air—and that moisture needs to drain out properly.
If the drain line clogs, it can cause:
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Water pooling near your indoor unit
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Mold or mildew smells
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Your AC shutting down automatically
What you can do:
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Locate your drain pan (usually near the inside part of your AC).
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Check for standing water or signs of overflow.
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Some DIYers flush their drain line with vinegar—but if you’re not sure how, it’s best to let a pro do it safely.
At APES HVAC & Plumbing, this is a standard part of our tune-up service.
6. Schedule a Full Pre-Summer AC Tune-Up
Even if everything seems okay, a professional tune-up catches problems the average person might miss—and ensures your system is ready to handle the summer grind.
What’s included in a professional AC tune-up?
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Full system inspection (indoor and outdoor)
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Coolant level check
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Electrical and thermostat testing
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Drain line cleaning
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Airflow and pressure check
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Minor adjustments and safety tests
Why it matters:
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Prevents breakdowns during peak season
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Improves energy efficiency
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Extends the life of your system
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Keeps your manufacturer warranty valid
It’s like a health check-up for your home’s most important system.
Why Choose APES HVAC & Plumbing in Phoenix?
We know Phoenix heat, and we know how to beat it.
APES HVAC & Plumbing is trusted across the Phoenix Valley for:
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⚙️ Expert HVAC and plumbing services
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💨 Fast response times
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🧑🔧 Friendly, certified technicians
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💬 Clear communication and no surprise pricing
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🏡 Family-owned, locally focused care
Whether you’re prepping for summer or fixing an emergency, we’re the team you can rely on.
Don’t Wait Until It’s 110° — Schedule Your Tune-Up Today
The best time to check your AC is before it breaks. Let APES HVAC & Plumbing give you peace of mind all summer long.
📍 Visit us: 2222 W Parkside Ln STE 105, Phoenix, AZ 85027
📞 Call now: (623) 521-1172
🌐 Book online: https://www.go4apes.com/contact/
Schedule now and stay cool with APES — your local HVAC experts.