Essential AC Maintenance Tips to Keep Your East Texas Home Cool

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When the Texas heat kicks into full gear, your air conditioner quickly becomes one of the most essential systems in your home. However, without regular upkeep, you may face unexpected breakdowns, reduced comfort, and higher energy bills. That’s why routine AC maintenance is essential, especially before the hottest months of the year hit.

At Bannister Plumbing & Air, we’ve been helping homeowners in Tyler, Jacksonville, and throughout East Texas stay cool and comfortable for years. Here are our top AC maintenance tips to keep your system running smoothly throughout the summer.

1. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly

A dirty filter can block airflow, forcing your system to work harder and reducing your indoor air quality. We recommend checking your air filter monthly during the summer and replacing it at least every 60 to 90 days—more often if you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home.

2. Clear Around Your door Unit

Your outdoor condenser requires sufficient space to function properly. Make sure it’s free of leaves, grass clippings, and debris. Trim back any overgrown shrubs and clear at least 2 feet of space around the unit. A clean condenser helps your system stay efficient and prevents it from overheating.

3. Check Your Thermostat Settings

If your home isn’t cooling like it should, your thermostat might be the issue. Make sure it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature reading is accurate. Replacing the batteries (if needed)and upgrading to a smart thermostat can help you maintain better control over your comfort and energy usage.

4. Open and Clean Your Vents

Closed or dusty vents can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your system. Walk through your home and ensure all vents are open and free of dust or obstructions—especially in commonly used rooms like living areas and bedrooms.

5. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Even if your AC seems to be working fine, it still needs a seasonal check-up. Our technicians at Bannister Plumbing &Air perform comprehensive maintenance to catch small issues before they turn into big problems. During your service, we’ll:

●     Inspect coils and refrigerant levels

●     Test motors, capacitors, and electrical connections

●     Lubricate moving parts

●     Calibrate your thermostat

●     Check for leaks or drainage issues

●     Ensure safe and efficient operation

Preventive maintenance now can help you avoid costly repairs and unexpected AC failures later.

6. Pay Attention to Unusual Noises or Odors

Is your air conditioner making strange noises, such as banging, rattling, or squealing? Smelling something musty or burnt? These can all be signs of mechanical issues or airflow problems. Don’t wait—call a professional before minor issues turn into major repairs.

7. Watch Your Energy Bill

A sudden spike in your electric bill could mean your AC is running inefficiently. Clogged filters, dirty coils, or low refrigerant levels may be the cause, and our team can help diagnose and resolve the issue quickly.

Stay Ahead of the Heat with Help from Bannister Plumbing & Air

Don’t let a poorly maintained AC leave you sweating this summer. Whether you’re in Tyler, Jacksonville, or nearby areas, Bannister Plumbing & Air is here with expert AC maintenance and repair services you can count on.

Call us today to schedule your seasonal AC tune-up or ask about our service plans to keep your system in top shape year-round!