Sacramento summers are no joke. When temps climb into the triple digits, your air conditioner stops being a luxury and starts being a necessity. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way with HVAC. Whether your system is brand new or been running for years, these tips will help you stay cool, keep your energy bills in check, and avoid a breakdown on the hottest day of the year.
At DJ’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve seen firsthand what a well-maintained system can do, and what happens when one isn’t. Here’s what we tell every homeowner heading into summer.
10 Tips to Keep Your AC Running All Summer Long
- Change Your Air Filter… Seriously
We can’t say this enough: a dirty filter is the number one cause of reduced AC performance. A clogged filter restricts airflow, makes your system work harder, and can even cause it to freeze up or overheat. Replace your filter every 1–3 months. If you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home, lean toward monthly. Bonus: have a clean filter ready when we come out for your tune-up and we’ll swap it for you! - Schedule a Summer Tune-Up Before the Heat Hits
Think of a tune-up like an oil change for your AC. A professional inspection catches small problems before they turn into expensive repairs, and ensures your system is running at peak efficiency when you need it most. Our summer tune-up special is just $59 and covers a full system check, refrigerant levels, coil cleaning, electrical inspection, and more. Don’t wait until your system stops working on a 105-degree day. - Set Your Thermostat Wisely
Cranking your thermostat down to 65° doesn’t cool your home faster — it just runs your system longer and drives up your bill. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this effortless. If your system is struggling to reach your set temperature, that’s a sign something may need attention. - Keep Vents Open and Unblocked
Closing vents in unused rooms sounds like a smart way to save energy, but it actually creates pressure imbalances that strain your system. Walk through your home and make sure all supply and return vents are open, clean, and not blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Good airflow throughout the house helps your AC do its job efficiently. - Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit
Your AC’s outdoor condenser unit needs room to breathe. Trim back any shrubs, weeds, or debris within at least 2 feet of the unit. Clear away leaves, dirt buildup, and grass clippings from the fins. A blocked or dirty condenser can’t release heat effectively, which reduces efficiency and puts extra stress on the system. - Check Your Condensate Drain Line
Your AC removes humidity from the air as it cools your home, and that moisture drains through a condensate line. Over time, algae and debris can clog this line, causing water to back up and potentially damage your system or your home. You can pour a cup of diluted bleach down the drain line periodically to keep it clear — or ask us to check it during your tune-up. - Use Ceiling Fans to Help Your AC
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, but they create a wind-chill effect that makes rooms feel several degrees cooler. Running ceiling fans counterclockwise in summer allows you to raise your thermostat 4–5°F without noticing a difference in comfort, which adds up to real savings over the season. Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave. - Reduce Heat Buildup Inside Your Home
The less heat you generate indoors, the less your AC has to work. Close blinds and curtains on sun-facing windows during the hottest part of the day. Avoid using your oven during peak afternoon heat — opt for a slow cooker, grill, or microwave instead. Run appliances like dishwashers and dryers in the evening when outdoor temps drop. - Know the Warning Signs of a Struggling System
Don’t ignore what your AC is telling you. Common signs that something’s wrong include: warm air blowing from vents, weak airflow, unusual noises (banging, clicking, squealing), a sudden spike in your energy bill, or your system running constantly without reaching the set temperature. The earlier you catch a problem, the less expensive the fix. - Don’t Skip Your Annual Maintenance
One tune-up per year is the single most effective thing you can do to extend the life of your system and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Most manufacturer warranties also require documented maintenance. Our service plan members get two seasonal visits per year, priority scheduling, and discounted parts — so you’re covered going into both summer and winter.
Pro Tip: The Best Time to Book Is Before Everyone Else Does
Once the first heat wave hits, HVAC companies across Sacramento get slammed with service calls. Book your tune-up in May or early June and you’ll get faster scheduling, more flexible appointment times, and peace of mind before the real heat arrives. Our $59 summer special fills up fast — call us today to lock in your spot.
When to Call a Professional
Your AC isn’t cooling: If it’s running but your home isn’t reaching the set temperature, there may be a refrigerant leak, a failing compressor, or an airflow issue.
Ice on the unit: Frost or ice on your indoor or outdoor unit is never normal and usually signals low refrigerant or a blocked airflow problem.
Strange smells: A burning smell could indicate an electrical issue. A musty odor may mean mold in the ductwork or drain pan.
Loud or unusual noises: Banging, rattling, or squealing can mean loose components, a failing motor, or debris in the unit.
Short cycling: If your AC is turning on and off rapidly without completing a full cooling cycle, the system may be oversized, low on refrigerant, or have a thermostat issue.
Sudden high energy bills: A spike in your electric bill without a change in usage habits often means your system is working much harder than it should.
Let us know if you have any HVAC needs! We would be happy to get you on the schedule! Call or send us a message.