HOW TO PREP YOUR AC FOR A HOT DENVER SUMMER

As Denver temperatures climb and the summer sun settles in, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important systems in your home. But if it’s not properly prepared, your AC may struggle to keep up, or worse, break down when you need it most. A surprise HVAC failure is the last thing anyone wants during a heatwave.

Fortunately, a few proactive steps can help ensure your AC runs efficiently and reliably all summer long. Whether you’re heading into your first full summer in your home or just haven’t gotten around to scheduling that tune-up, it’s not too late to get your system ready. At L & L Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve helped hundreds of Denver homeowners stay cool, safe, and energy-efficient with trusted maintenance and tune-up services that fit even the busiest schedules.

Here’s your practical, step-by-step guide to prepping your AC for the summer heat.

Start with a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

There’s no substitute for a professional tune-up—especially in a climate like Denver’s, where hot, dry days can push your system hard. An annual inspection and service by a licensed technician ensures that your AC is operating at peak efficiency and helps prevent costly mid-season breakdowns.

During a tune-up, a technician will typically:

• Inspect and clean the condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels and pressure
• Test the thermostat for accuracy
• Inspect electrical components and tighten connections
• Lubricate moving parts
• Clean or replace filters
• Ensure proper airflow through vents and registers

This thorough checkup catches small issues before they become major problems and extends the life of your unit. It also helps your system cool more efficiently, which can lower your utility bills—a welcome relief during the summer months.

Change or Clean Your Air Filters

One of the simplest and most effective things you can do as a homeowner is to regularly change your AC filters. Dirty filters reduce airflow, force your system to work harder, and can even lead to frozen coils or system failure.

For most Denver households, filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days—more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or live in a high-pollen area. If you’ve been running your heat through the spring, now is a good time to swap that filter out so your AC can breathe easy.

Clear Debris from Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit needs space to function properly. Leaves, weeds, mulch, or debris that pile up around the unit can restrict airflow and strain the compressor. Take a few minutes to:

• Remove leaves or branches from around the unit
• Trim any plants within two feet of the system
• Hose down the exterior coils gently if they appear dusty or clogged

This quick cleanup can improve performance and prevent overheating when the heat really kicks in.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

Many homeowners forget to switch their thermostat from “heat” to “cool” until the first warm day catches them off guard. Take a moment to set your thermostat now, and make sure it’s running properly.

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, update your cooling schedule to reflect your summer routine. This small step can help avoid unnecessary cooling when no one’s home, saving you money without sacrificing comfort.

Test the System Early—Not When It’s 95 Degrees

The best time to test your AC isn’t during the first heatwave—it’s well before that. Run your system for 10–15 minutes to ensure it kicks on smoothly, blows cold air, and runs without unusual noises or smells.

Pay attention to signs like:

• Warm air from the vents
• Strange noises from the outdoor unit
• Odd smells, especially musty or burning scents
• Uneven cooling throughout the house

If anything feels off, it’s better to address it now, while appointment slots are more flexible. Once the season heats up, HVAC companies across Denver book up quickly, leaving you waiting during the hottest weeks of the year.

Don’t Skip Ductwork and Insulation Checks

Efficient cooling isn’t just about the AC unit itself. Leaky ducts, poor insulation, or blocked vents can waste cooled air and overwork your system. If you’ve noticed hot or cold spots in your home, a duct inspection could uncover airflow issues that are costing you in comfort and energy.

A technician from L & L Heating and Air Conditioning can assess your ductwork, identify areas of energy loss, and recommend solutions to optimize airflow. For older homes or remodeled spaces, this can make a significant difference in how evenly your home cools.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Summer with Confidence

A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your home cool, your AC reliable, and your summer stress-free. Regular maintenance not only prevents surprise repairs—it saves energy, lowers your monthly bills, and helps your system last for years to come.

At L & L Heating and Air Conditioning, we make it easy to stay on top of seasonal maintenance. With convenient scheduling, expert technicians, and no-nonsense service, we help you get the job done without disrupting your day.

Whether you’re due for a tune-up or just want a professional to take a look before the summer rush hits, we’re here to help. Schedule your seasonal AC checkup today and enjoy the Denver summer with total peace of mind.