Back to blogs

October 21, 2025

Prevent Summer Breakdowns: How to Maintain Your AC Like a Pro

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Summer in Austin and its surrounding areas can be brutal, and a failing AC system can turn a pleasant day into a stressful ordeal. Homeowners understand that nothing is worse than a breakdown in sweltering heat. That’s why many have turned to professional maintenance to keep their systems in the best shape possible. As amy C. shared, “Michael did a great job getting my AC units in shape for the summer! And was very friendly and professional!” This customer experience reflects the care SALT Plumbing, Air & Electric brings to every service call. In this article, we’ll walk you through essential maintenance tips, offer expert advice on when to perform routine check-ups, and explain how partnering with a trusted company can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your system runs efficiently all summer long.

Why AC Maintenance Is Essential

Maintaining your AC system isn’t just about staying cool—it’s about boosting efficiency, saving money on energy bills, and extending the life of your unit. When your system operates at peak efficiency, you’re not only reducing your monthly energy costs but also avoiding the dreaded emergency repair that can break the bank. Industry experts note that a properly tuned-up AC unit runs more efficiently and endures longer, which is why routine maintenance is critical. As highlighted by SALT’s AC tune-up services, a comprehensive check—covering air filters, thermostat calibration, electrical connections, and refrigerant levels—can uncover issues early before they evolve into major problems [1].

Expert Tips for AC Maintenance

Regular Tune-Ups

Scheduling annual tune-ups is the best defense against summer breakdowns. During an AC tune-up, a professional technician inspects both indoor and outdoor components, cleans coils, checks for refrigerant leaks, and verifies that the system is operating within its optimal range. Routine maintenance not only ensures that your AC unit is ready for the hot summer months but also prevents the small issues that can lead to expensive repairs. As one satisfied customer, Harriet E., noted, “Tryston Vermace did a through job of making sure my AC unit is ready for the summer heat. Highly recommend Salt & Light” [0].

DIY Maintenance Checks

While professional tune-ups are essential, there are a few routine maintenance steps you can handle on your own:

  • Change or Clean Air Filters: Replace air filters every six to eight months to keep dust and debris from clogging the system.
  • Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit: Make sure that there are no obstructions, such as leaves or debris, that could impede airflow.
  • Check for Unusual Noises: A sudden increase in noise might indicate a mechanical issue that requires professional attention.

These simple tasks can help maintain airflow and efficiency. However, for a complete check-up that considers all safety and performance factors, professional maintenance remains the best choice.

When to Call the Professionals

Even with regular DIY efforts, certain signs should prompt you to contact an expert. If you notice any of the following issues, it’s time to call in the professionals:

  • Reduced airflow or weak cooling performance
  • Loud or unusual sounds coming from the unit
  • Unexplained increases in your energy bills

A timely professional response can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a total system failure. Remember, prevention is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs.

SALT Plumbing Air & Electric: Your AC Maintenance Partner

For over three decades, SALT Plumbing, Air & Electric has been a trusted name in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Kyle, Hutto, Del Valle, and Belton. Our expert technicians provide thorough AC tune-ups and maintenance services designed to keep your system running efficiently and reliably. As Angela Moore shared after her routine maintenance, “I had a routine check of our AC for the summer. Chase and Rickey were amazing—so professional yet personal and informative. They took pictures of everything and explained every step of their work” [2].

Our commitment to quality and customer service means we treat every home with care, ensuring your family stays comfortable during the Texas heat. With family-owned values since 1984, SALT stands out by blending technical proficiency with a friendly, approachable service style.

Final Takeaways

Summer is the peak season for AC usage, and the last thing you need is a breakdown when temperatures are soaring. By investing in regular professional maintenance, you ensure your unit performs at its best, reducing energy costs and extending its lifespan. Remember to schedule annual tune-ups, perform routine DIY checks, and always be proactive about any performance issues.

For reliable, prompt service from a team that values honesty and quality, contact SALT Plumbing, Air & Electric. Keep your AC in top condition and prevent summer breakdowns by calling (512) 559-4206 or visiting callsalt.com. Stay cool this summer with the peace of mind that comes from expert care.

© 2025 Website powered by Peakzi. All rights reserved.

v0.9.6