Illinois spring is short. Before you know it, temperatures are in the 80s and 90s and your air conditioner is running full-time. Taking an hour in April or May to run through this checklist can prevent a breakdown during the hottest week of the year.

DIY Steps You Can Do Right Now

1. Replace Your Air Filter

This is the single most important thing you can do for your HVAC system. A clogged filter restricts airflow, makes the system work harder, and is the #1 cause of AC problems in New Lenox homes. Replace it now before starting the cooling season. 1-inch filters should be replaced every 1–3 months; 4-inch media filters every 6–12 months.

2. Clear the Outdoor Unit

Over winter, leaves, twigs, and debris accumulate around and inside the outdoor condenser unit. Clear a 2-foot radius around the unit and gently rinse the coils with a garden hose (from the inside out if possible). Make sure the unit is level on its pad.

3. Check the Condensate Drain

The indoor unit produces condensation that drains through a PVC pipe. If this drain clogs, water backs up and can damage your ceiling, walls, or floor. Pour a cup of diluted bleach down the drain line to clear any algae buildup.

4. Test Your Thermostat

Set your thermostat to "Cool" and lower the temperature below the current room temperature. The AC should start within a few minutes. If it doesn't, check the circuit breaker and the disconnect switch near the outdoor unit before calling for service.

5. Check Your Vents

Walk through the house and make sure all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Closing vents in unused rooms doesn't save energy — it actually increases pressure in the duct system and can cause problems.

What Requires a Professional

The DIY steps above are important, but they don't replace a professional tune-up. A technician checks refrigerant levels, tests capacitors and contactors (the most common failure points), cleans the evaporator coil, and measures system performance. These checks require specialized equipment and EPA certification.

New Lenox Heating offers a comprehensive spring AC tune-up for $89 (regularly $139). Scheduling in April or May means you beat the summer rush and have time to address any issues found. Call 815-893-3642 to book.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do to prepare my AC for summer in Illinois?

Replace the air filter, clear debris from around the outdoor unit, check that the condensate drain is clear, test the thermostat, and schedule a professional AC tune-up. New Lenox Heating offers spring AC tune-ups for $89. Call 815-893-3642.

When should I turn on my AC for the first time in spring?

Wait until outdoor temperatures are consistently above 60°F before running your AC. Running it in cooler temperatures can damage the compressor. In New Lenox, this is typically late April to early May.

How do I know if my AC is ready for summer?

The best way is a professional spring tune-up. A technician will check refrigerant levels, test electrical components, clean the coils, and verify the system is operating correctly. This catches problems before they become summer emergencies.