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Tips from San Diego’s Trusted HVAC Experts
A brand-new air conditioning system brings comfort, fresh air, and peace of mind—especially in sunny San Diego. But without proper care, even the best equipment can start underperforming, making your home feel stuffy and uncomfortable. From dusty odors to strange noises or even water leaks, many issues can arise from simple neglect.
The good news? Keeping your AC unit running smoothly is easier than you think. Just follow these five simple maintenance tips to extend its lifespan and enjoy clean, cool air all year round.
Many homeowners don’t realize that AC maintenance starts the day the system is installed. In San Diego’s warm climate, improper installation can lead to issues like vibrations, noisy operation, or inefficiencies down the line. Always hire certified professionals to ensure your unit is correctly installed and optimized for your home’s layout.
One of the most important (and easiest!) steps to maintaining your air conditioner is keeping the filters clean. Over time, filters collect dust and debris, which reduces air quality and system performance.
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning or replacing filters every 1.5 to 2 months of active use. Some high-end models even come with filter sensors that notify you when it’s time to clean.
Dirty filters not only reduce efficiency but can also cause ice to build up in the system or clog the drainage line, leading to leaks and long-term damage.
While San Diego doesn’t experience harsh winters, temperatures can still dip in the evenings or during colder months in nearby areas. If your system isn’t rated for cold weather operation, using it in low temperatures can lead to ice blockages and drainage failures.
If you own a year-round or all-season AC unit, you’re good to go—even in temperatures as low as -25°C. Otherwise, consider installing protective canopies for the external unit, or upgrading with a heating drainage system or compressor heater for better winter performance.
A slow freon leak is more common than you’d think—even with a perfect installation. Over time, small amounts of refrigerant can escape due to normal wear in connection points.
If you notice your AC isn’t cooling as efficiently or see ice forming on the external connectors, it’s time for a checkup. On average, freon loss can be around 8% annually, and ignoring it could lead to expensive compressor damage.
Before switching on your air conditioner for the season, schedule a professional inspection. In San Diego, where ACs get a lot of use throughout the year, this step is essential to avoid sudden breakdowns—especially in peak summer.
A seasonal checkup helps detect low freon levels, clogged filters, damaged lines, or compressor issues before they turn into major problems. Investing in regular service keeps your system efficient and extends its lifespan.
Just like your indoor unit, the outdoor condenser needs love too. Leaves, dirt, and debris can build up over time, affecting airflow and cooling power. If you notice constant dripping or odd smells, it’s probably time to clean it out.
While you can remove surface debris yourself, professional deep cleaning ensures long-term performance. Antiseptic treatments also eliminate bacteria and mildew that can create musty odors inside your home.
At our San Diego-based store, we offer a full range of air conditioning solutions—from top-brand units with warranty and installation, to expert maintenance, diagnostics, and filter replacements.
Whether you’re installing a new system, need a seasonal tune-up, or want help diagnosing an issue, our certified HVAC technicians are here to help keep your home cool and comfortable year-round.
