June 9, 2025

Preparing Your HVAC System for Summer: Essential Steps for Peak Performance

Want to avoid surprise breakdowns this summer? Learn how to prepare your HVAC system for the heat with essential tips from your local experts at Dempsey Energy.

Summer in Massachusetts can be unpredictable. One day it’s breezy, the next it’s a wall of heat and humidity. If your HVAC system isn’t ready, those high temps can quickly turn into high bills—or worse, a breakdown in the middle of a heatwave. At Dempsey Energy, we help homeowners and business owners in Plymouth County, Bristol County, and Norfolk County get ahead of the heat. A few simple maintenance steps can make all the difference in your comfort and your energy use. Whether you rely on central air, mini-split systems, or a combination of cooling methods, here’s how to keep everything running efficiently when summer hits.

Start with a Professional HVAC Maintenance Checkup

Before the temperatures spike, schedule an HVAC maintenance appointment. A trained technician can inspect your system from top to bottom, identifying small issues before they become expensive problems. This includes checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections, inspecting the blower motor, and cleaning the condenser coils. These behind-the-scenes fixes make a big impact on efficiency and lifespan.

At Dempsey Energy, our seasonal tune-ups help keep residential HVAC and commercial HVAC systems operating at their best. We recommend booking the service early in the season, before the summer rush hits. That way, if you need any parts replaced or repairs scheduled, you’re not left sweating it out in the meantime.

Change Your Filters for Better Airflow and Air Quality

Clogged or dirty filters are one of the most common causes of reduced airflow and poor indoor air quality. When your system has to work harder to pull air through a dirty filter, it wastes energy and adds stress to internal components. A clean filter helps your home stay cooler with less effort, and keeps allergens at bay.

For most properties, we recommend changing filters every one to three months, especially if you have pets or live in a pollen-heavy area. If you’re unsure what type of filter your system uses, our team can help you choose the right one during your HVAC maintenance visit. We can also talk about advanced filtration options if you’re dealing with allergies or want to improve your home’s overall air quality.

Calibrate or Upgrade Your Thermostat for Greater Control

Inspect and Clean Ductwork for Even Cooling

If some rooms in your home feel cooler than others, or you notice dust buildup near vents, your ductwork might be the culprit. Over time, ducts can collect debris, develop leaks, or suffer from loose connections that waste cooled air. A professional ductwork service will keep your system delivering consistent airflow to every room while maintaining energy efficiency.

Our team uses industry-grade tools to inspect, seal, and clean ductwork systems throughout Plymouth, Bristol, and Norfolk County. By restoring proper airflow, you’ll not only feel more comfortable throughout your home or business, but you’ll also reduce strain on your air conditioning system. That’s a win-win when it comes to saving money and staying cool.

Clear and Maintain the Outdoor Unit

Your AC’s outdoor condenser unit plays a major role in heat transfer. But when it’s surrounded by weeds, leaves, or debris, airflow gets blocked and performance drops fast. Before summer gets underway, take a few minutes to clear a two-foot radius around your unit and remove anything that could restrict airflow.

We also recommend rinsing the coils gently with a garden hose (never a pressure washer), especially if pollen or dirt has built up. During your regular HVAC maintenance visit, we’ll give the outdoor unit a full inspection and clean the interior components. Taking care of this unit helps keep your system running quietly, efficiently, and reliably – even during the hottest days of the season.

Check for Warning Signs of Hidden Issues

Don’t wait for your AC to stop working before you take action. Pay attention to early warning signs, such as strange noises, weak airflow, odd smells, or unusually high energy bills. These issues can signal problems ranging from low refrigerant levels to a failing blower motor or airflow restrictions in your ducts or vents.

At Dempsey Energy, our emergency HVAC repair team is ready when you need us, but we always prefer to prevent emergencies before they happen. If something doesn’t feel right, give us a call and we’ll take a look. Our trained pros will help you get ahead of the issue, so you’re not left scrambling on a 90-degree day.

Let’s Get Your System Summer-Ready Before the Heat Sets In

Staying cool this summer starts with being proactive. From basic filter changes and thermostat upgrades to ductwork checks and outdoor unit care, these small steps can lead to a major difference in performance. And when it’s time for professional support, Dempsey Energy can help. We work with residents throughout Plymouth County, Bristol County, and Norfolk counties to make sure their residential HVAC and commercial HVAC systems are in top shape. Whether you need a tune-up, a quick repair, or just want a second opinion, we’ve got the tools and experience to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule your summer prep visit and enjoy the season without the stress.

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