Get Your AC Ready for Summer
May is the ideal month to prepare your air conditioning system for the peak cooling season. In the Beaverton and Portland area, temperatures will start climbing, and you want your AC running at peak efficiency. Here's what you should do now to avoid breakdowns and high energy bills later.
1. Schedule a Pre-Season AC Inspection
Don't wait until June when we're swamped with maintenance calls. A May inspection lets our technicians catch potential problems before they become emergencies. We'll check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect electrical connections, and test all system components to ensure everything is working properly.
2. Change Your Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and use more energy. Check your filter now and replace it if it looks dirty. For homes with pets or allergies in the Portland area, consider switching to a higher-efficiency filter (MERV 11 or higher) to improve air quality.
3. Clean Your Outdoor Condenser Unit
Debris like leaves, pollen, and dirt accumulate around your outdoor unit, blocking airflow. Gently clean the fins with a garden hose (don't use high pressure). Make sure there's at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit on all sides for proper ventilation.
4. Check and Seal Air Leaks
Gaps around windows, doors, and ducts let cool air escape. Caulk leaks around windows and weatherstrip doors. For ductwork, we can seal leaks professionally—leaky ducts can waste 20-30% of cooled air in Portland homes.
5. Reprogram Your Thermostat
Adjust your thermostat settings for summer. Setting it 7-10°F higher when you're away or sleeping can save up to 10% on cooling costs. Smart thermostats make this automatic and help manage humidity in our Pacific Northwest climate.
6. Consider a Ductless Mini-Split for Better Comfort
If certain areas of your Beaverton or Portland home are warmer than others, a ductless mini-split system offers zone cooling. You cool only the rooms you're using, saving energy and providing better comfort control than traditional central AC.
Why May Is the Perfect Time to Act
May is your sweet spot—before the summer rush when service appointments are easier to schedule. Our technicians have more availability, and you get faster response times. Plus, addressing issues now prevents costly emergency repairs when temperatures spike.
Local Advice for Portland Area Homes
The Portland metro area's humidity during summer (especially in Beaverton and Tigard) can stress your AC system. High-efficiency systems with better humidity control help keep your home comfortable and healthy. Our team knows the specific cooling challenges in our region and can recommend solutions tailored to your neighborhood.
Need Help Getting Your AC Summer-Ready?
Our team at Aviator Heating & Cooling is ready to help. We'll conduct a thorough inspection, handle any repairs, and get your system optimized for summer comfort. Whether you need a simple tune-up or are considering a new high-efficiency system, we're here to help.
Call 503-770-4822 or request your May tune-up onlineAviator Heating & Cooling has been keeping Beaverton, Portland, Tigard, and Gresham homes cool and comfortable since 2013. With 24/7 emergency service and our commitment to quality workmanship, we're your trusted partner for all your air conditioning needs.