Keep your AC running efficiently during the coastal summer months
When summer hits Marin County and San Francisco, you may not face scorching heatwaves like other parts of California, but a reliable air conditioning system is still key to staying comfortable- especially during warmer inland days or surprise heat spikes. A little preventive care now can help you avoid breakdowns, improve indoor air quality, and lower your energy bills.
Here’s your essential summer HVAC maintenance checklist to help your system run efficiently and keep your home cool all season long.
1. Check and Replace Your Air Filters
One of the simplest- and most effective- things you can do is inspect your HVAC filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, force your system to work harder, and reduce air quality.
Tip: Check filters monthly during the summer. Replace them every 1–3 months depending on usage, pets, and allergies.
Why it matters: Clean filters can improve efficiency by up to 15% and help you breathe easier in fog-prone coastal homes.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings
A programmable or smart thermostat can make a big difference in both comfort and energy savings.
Tip: Set your thermostat to 76–78°F when you’re home, and 85°F when you’re away. Use a programmable schedule to avoid cooling an empty home.
Why it matters: Smart use of your thermostat helps reduce strain on your system and keeps your energy bill in check.
3. Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit can collect debris like leaves, dust, and salt air buildup- especially in foggy or windy areas near the coast.
Tip: Gently rinse the exterior fins with a garden hose (never a pressure washer) and remove any vegetation or clutter within two feet of the unit.
Why it matters: A clean condenser allows for proper heat exchange, keeping your system efficient and extending its lifespan.
4. Inspect Ductwork for Leaks or Blockages
Cool air can escape through leaks in your ductwork- especially in older homes found throughout SF and Marin.
Tip: Look for visible gaps, holes, or disconnected sections in your attic or crawl space ducts. Feel for airflow inconsistencies in different rooms.
Why it matters: Leaky ducts can reduce cooling efficiency by up to 30%, wasting both energy and money.
5. Schedule a Professional Seasonal Tune-Up
Even if everything seems fine, an annual HVAC inspection ensures your system is running safely and efficiently.
What we check during a tune-up:
- Refrigerant levels
- Electrical components
- Thermostat calibration
- Condensate drain function
- Fan and motor operation
Why it matters: Preventive maintenance helps catch small issues before they become big problems- and keeps your warranty valid.
At Bay Air Heating & Cooling, we specialize in HVAC service and repair for homes across Marin County and San Francisco, including Mill Valley, Tiburon, Sausalito, Novato, and beyond.
Book your summer HVAC service today to stay comfortable and energy-efficient all season long.
Call us at 415-713-8061 or Schedule Online