Is Your HVAC System Ready for Summer? A Homeowner’s Checklist

May 12, 2025

Summer is the season of fun and sun, but that doesn’t mean you want warm weather to follow you indoors. If you haven’t taken the time to prep your HVAC system, you could be in for a sweaty time. Dust, dirt, and wear can build up over the months, placing unnecessary strain on your system. Routine HVAC maintenance and yearly tune-ups are essential for keeping your home comfortable while maximizing energy efficiency and prolonging the life of your system.

By giving your HVAC a tune-up now, you’ll be ready for sunny days and hot weather in St. Paul. Plus, regular seasonal care can catch potential problems before they escalate into expensive repairs.

Here’s a handy seven-step checklist to make sure your HVAC is in peak condition this summer.

1. Change Your Air Filters

Dirty air filters are one of the most common culprits behind inefficient HVAC performance. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder than necessary. This not only increases energy use but can also lead to poor indoor air quality.

Check disposable filters monthly and replace them every 1-3 months (or more frequently as needed).
Clean reusable filters every 1-3 months (or more frequently as needed).
Choose the right filter size and rating (a HEPA filter is a great option for allergies).

Pro tip: If you suffer from seasonal allergies, replace your disposable filter monthly. .

2. Clean and Inspect Your Vents and Air Ducts

Blocked or dirty vents and ducts can reduce airflow and spread allergens throughout your home. They will also cause your HVAC system to overwork, reducing efficiency and damaging your system.

Remove vent covers and vacuum any visible dust or debris.
Have a professional inspect your air ducts for signs of buildup, leaks, or mold, all of which could reduce air quality.

If you notice uneven airflow or dust accumulating faster than usual, it might be time for a professional cleaning.

3. Test Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system, so it’s essential to test it as you move into summer.

Make sure your thermostat is set to cooling mode and test it to see if your AC kicks on properly.
Program an energy-saving schedule, focusing on warmer afternoon hours when cooling is most needed.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and cost savings.

Small tweaks to thermostat settings can save you as much as 10% on your energy bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

4. Inspect Your Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit takes a beating from winter snow and debris. A quick clean can boost its efficiency.

Clear away leaves, dirt, or branches around the unit to ensure proper airflow.
Use a hose to gently wash the fins (but avoid bending or damaging them).
Check for any visible signs of damage, like rust or loose connections, that may need attention.

Keeping the area around your outdoor unit clean can prevent overheating and improve performance. A 2 ft clearance is generally considered best practice.

5. Check Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant levels play a major role in how effectively your air conditioner cools your home. Low levels can signal a leak or inefficiency in the system.

Keep an eye out for warning signs of a refrigerant issue, such as reduced cooling power or hissing noises.
Schedule a certified HVAC technician to inspect and, if needed, recharge the refrigerant in your system. This is NOT a DIY task—handling refrigerant requires specialized knowledge and must comply with strict legal regulations for safe handling and disposal. Trust a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Regular inspections can help prevent some of the most common AC issues, ensuring your system runs smoothly all season long.

6. Seal Windows and Inspect Insulation

Though it’s not directly tied to your HVAC system, poorly sealed windows and inadequate insulation can undo your system’s hard work.

Check windows for gaps or cracks, and seal them with weather stripping or caulking.
Make sure attic and wall insulation meets recommended R-values for the St. Paul area.

Efficient insulation reduces strain on your HVAC system, so it doesn’t have to work harder to regulate temperature.

7. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Even with regular DIY maintenance, nothing beats a professional inspection to keep your HVAC system running at peak performance. There are some things, such as adjusting your AC refrigerant, that you should not attempt on your own.

During a HVAC tune-up, a trained technician will inspect your entire system and take care of key maintenance tasks:

Testing for leaks, loose connections, or malfunctioning parts.
Lubricating moving components to reduce wear and tear.
Cleaning critical system components.

Think of it as an annual health check for your heating and cooling system. A professional tune-up provides peace of mind while also ensuring you are in compliance with warranty requirements for newer equipment.

Trust McQuillan Home Services for Your HVAC Tune-Up

You don’t have to tackle your HVAC checklist alone. At McQuillan Home Services, we specialize in helping St. Paul homeowners prepare their systems for every season. With decades of expertise, our technicians can keep your system running like a dream and catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.