Get Your AC Ready for a Southern California Summer

Southern California summers are no joke—they bring intense heat waves, unpredictable temperature spikes, wildfire smoke, and rising energy costs. When the heat hits hard, your air conditioning system becomes more than just a comfort feature—it’s a necessity for protecting your home, your health, and your peace of mind. The last thing you want is to deal with a breakdown during a triple-digit weekend or suffer through poor indoor air quality when wildfire smoke rolls in.

At Shalom Heating & Air, we know how vital a reliable and efficient AC system is in these conditions. That’s why we encourage homeowners to prepare ahead of time. A little early maintenance can go a long way toward preventing mid-summer emergencies, lowering your energy bills, and keeping every room in your home consistently cool.

Whether your system is brand new or over a decade old, this guide will walk you through the most important steps to get your air conditioner ready for a Southern California summer—so you stay cool, safe, and stress-free all season long.

get ac ready socal summer

1. Professional AC Tune-Up

Before the summer heat sets in and temperatures start climbing into the triple digits, it’s important to make sure your air conditioner is in peak working condition. One of the best ways to do that is by scheduling a seasonal AC tune-up with the licensed and experienced technicians at Shalom Heating & Air. Routine maintenance not only helps your system run more efficiently, but it also reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns during the hottest days of the year—when you need cooling the most.

A professional tune-up is more than just a quick glance under the hood. Our comprehensive service includes:

  • Inspecting all components
  • Checking refrigerant levels
  • Cleaning condenser coils
  • Testing system performance
  • Tightening electrical connections
  • Verifying thermostat accuracy

Regular maintenance not only improves cooling efficiency but can also extend the life of your system and help prevent expensive breakdowns during peak heat.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters

One of the simplest ways to keep your AC running smoothly is by checking your air filters. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your system to work harder, and lowers indoor air quality.

We recommend changing or cleaning your filters every 1–2 months, especially if you have pets or allergies.

3. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor condenser needs breathing room to release heat effectively. Make sure there’s at least 2–3 feet of clearance around the unit, and remove leaves, dirt, or overgrown plants. A blocked unit can lead to overheating and reduced performance—right when you need it most.

4. Check Thermostat Settings

Double-check your thermostat programming to ensure it’s set for cooling mode and an efficient schedule. If you’re still using an older thermostat, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to maximize energy savings, especially when you’re away from home.

5. Seal Leaks and Insulate

Conditioned air escaping through poorly sealed windows, doors, or ductwork means your AC has to run longer to keep up. Our team can inspect your ducts and insulation to ensure your cool air stays where it belongs—inside your home.

6. Consider an HVAC System Upgrade

If your air conditioner is over 10–15 years old, struggles to cool evenly, or drives up your energy bills, it might be time to consider a high-efficiency replacement. The good news? We can help you qualify for local HVAC rebates to reduce your installation costs.

Don’t Wait for a Heat Wave—Call Today

Get ahead of the summer surge. At Shalom Heating & Air, we provide reliable, affordable service across Anaheim, Bellflower, Brea, Buena Park, Cerritos, Cypress, Downey, Garden Grove, La Palma, Long Beach, Norwalk, Orange, and Tustin.

Contact us today to schedule your AC tune-up or request a free estimate on a new energy-efficient system. Let’s make this summer your most comfortable one yet.

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