When temperatures soar and the summer heatwave hits, few things feel as essential as a fully functioning air conditioning system. Whether you’re working from home, entertaining guests or simply trying to get a decent night’s sleep, a reliable AC unit can make all the difference. But if your system has been sitting idle since last year, it may need a little care and attention before it’s ready to face another season of high demand.

Waiting until the first hot day to test your air conditioning is a risk that can leave you sweaty and frustrated, especially when repair appointments are harder to come by in peak season. Giving your system a once-over now ensures it’s running efficiently, safely and effectively—before you actually need it. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a cool, comfortable environment all summer long without worrying about breakdowns or rising energy costs.

Giving Your System a Visual Inspection

Before switching the system on, take a few moments to visually inspect both the indoor and outdoor components. Look for signs of dust, debris or damage that may have accumulated during the colder months. Outdoor units, in particular, are prone to collecting leaves, twigs or even nesting insects, all of which can block airflow or clog important components.

Indoors, check vents and filters for visible dirt or dust. If the filters are clogged or discoloured, they should be cleaned or replaced before regular use. Dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce efficiency and force the system to work harder than necessary. Ensuring the area around your AC unit is clean and unobstructed allows the system to circulate air properly throughout the space.

Checking the Controls and Thermostat

A faulty thermostat can easily go unnoticed until the system fails to cool your space correctly. Test your thermostat by setting it a few degrees lower than the current room temperature and listening for the system to kick in. If it doesn’t respond, check the power source, batteries and settings.

Modern digital thermostats or smart control systems should be calibrated to ensure they’re providing accurate readings. Even slight inaccuracies can affect performance and energy usage. If your home has undergone any layout changes since last summer, such as new walls, insulation or large appliances, it’s worth reviewing your thermostat’s position to ensure it’s still placed where it can best regulate the temperature.

Running a Short Performance Test

Once your initial checks are complete, turn the system on and let it run for 15 to 20 minutes. Pay attention to how quickly the room cools, how strong the airflow is from the vents, and whether the system sounds smooth or strained. Listen for any rattling, grinding or hissing noises that may suggest worn-out components or loose parts.

Keep an eye on the temperature inside the room. If it takes longer than expected to cool down, or if certain rooms feel warmer than others, there may be an issue with ductwork, airflow or refrigerant levels. Early performance tests like this help identify problems before the heatwave puts your system under more pressure.

Cleaning or Replacing the Air Filters

Clean filters are one of the most important factors in keeping your air conditioning system efficient and effective. Over time, filters collect dust, pollen, pet hair and other airborne particles that can block airflow and reduce cooling performance. Left unchecked, they can also lead to indoor air quality issues.

Depending on the type of unit you have, filters may be washable or disposable. In either case, giving them a proper clean or replacing them entirely before the summer begins is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of your AC and cut down on energy usage. It also reduces the strain on the fan motor, lowering the risk of unexpected failure during a heatwave.

Clearing the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor condenser unit plays a vital role in removing heat from your home, and it works best when it has plenty of space around it. Clear away any weeds, plants or debris that may have grown or accumulated near the unit. Check that the fins aren’t bent and that the fan spins freely.

Over time, dirt and grime can build up on the coils, reducing the system’s ability to release heat. A gentle hose down (with the power off) can help remove surface dust, but deeper cleans are often best left to professionals with the proper equipment. Ensuring good airflow around the outdoor unit can make a significant difference to the system’s overall performance during high temperatures.

Checking for Leaks or Signs of Wear

Refrigerant leaks, blocked condensate drains and worn seals can all limit the effectiveness of your air conditioning system and lead to further issues if left unchecked. Look around the indoor unit for signs of moisture or water pooling. This could suggest a clogged drain or a failing pump, which can lead to mould or water damage if not dealt with quickly.

If you suspect a refrigerant issue—perhaps from weak airflow, unusual noises or ice forming on the pipes—it’s important to call in a qualified technician. Topping up refrigerant isn’t a DIY job and must be done safely and in accordance with current regulations. Any drop in refrigerant levels will severely impact your system’s ability to cool and can cause long-term damage to the compressor.

Booking a Professional Service in Advance

While many of the basic checks and cleans can be done yourself, a full service by a qualified air conditioning engineer offers the most peace of mind ahead of the summer. An annual service includes a thorough inspection of all components, checks for leaks, cleaning of coils and internal systems, and a test of system performance under load.

Booking this before the hot weather arrives helps you beat the seasonal rush, when engineers often face full calendars and longer wait times. It also ensures your system is running as efficiently as possible, which can help reduce your energy bills during peak usage periods.

Staying Cool and Comfortable All Season Long

Preparing your air conditioning system ahead of a summer heatwave is about more than just avoiding breakdowns—it’s about ensuring your comfort, protecting your investment, and improving energy efficiency. A few simple checks and a professional service can make the difference between a cool, calm home and one that becomes unbearable during a heat spike.

By giving your AC system the attention it needs now, you’re not only preventing avoidable issues, but also setting yourself up for a more enjoyable summer. Whether you rely on your unit every day or only during the hottest weeks, being proactive ensures it’s ready to deliver the cool, clean air you’ll be counting on.