Utah summers are no joke. Between scorching temperatures in Salt Lake City and dry desert heat along the Wasatch Front, your HVAC system is your home’s first line of defense against the brutal sun. Prepping your system isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential to your comfort, wallet, and health.
If you wait until the heat hits to find out your AC’s struggling, you’ll end up sweating it out while everyone else books the only available technicians. Summer prep keeps breakdowns at bay, improves indoor air quality, and boosts energy efficiency, saving you money when your cooling bills would otherwise skyrocket.
Utah’s mountainous regions, especially places like Park City and Heber, mean thinner air and bigger workload for HVAC compressors. The elevation impacts heat exchange efficiency, making regular maintenance vital for your system’s performance.
The Wasatch Front is notorious for high pollen and dust counts, especially in early summer. HVAC systems suck in all that grime unless regularly cleaned, clogging filters and affecting airflow. This not only reduces system efficiency but also worsens indoor allergies and respiratory conditions.
Dusty filters are HVAC killers. In Utah’s dusty climate, you should change filters every 30 days during summer. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and burn more electricity.
🔧 Pro Tip: Use MERV 8 filters for a balance of filtration and airflow.
Leaves, dirt, and weeds choke your outdoor unit. A blocked condenser can overheat and shut down your system during peak heat hours.
Turn off the power.
Hose down the fins.
Use a soft brush to remove debris.
🧽 Don’t forget to clean at least 2 feet around the unit.
Don’t rely on guesswork. CMB HVAC Home pros will check refrigerant levels, detect worn components, and calibrate the system for max performance.
FREE System Check
Thorough Explanation of What We Found
Look no further for NATE-certified technicians – Schedule your appointment here.
Is your thermostat reading wrong? That 2–3 degree inaccuracy could cause your AC to run too often or not enough.
Place it away from heat sources.
Level it properly on the wall.
📱 Smart thermostats can self-calibrate—upgrade if possible.
Ductwork in older Utah homes often leaks cooled air into the attic or crawlspace. You’re paying to chill the birds outside.
Use mastic sealant or aluminum tape.
Have a pro test for leakage.
Fire up the AC in April or May to test cooling and airflow before summer starts. This gives you time to fix problems without urgency fees.
Blocked vents are a silent killer for system efficiency. Move rugs, couches, and curtains off vents to ensure proper circulation.
Low refrigerant means low cooling. Your AC may run non-stop and still not cool the house.
Only a licensed tech can handle refrigerant legally.
Watch for bubbling or hissing sounds.
Utah’s hot days and cooler nights are perfect for smart cooling schedules.
Set higher temps during work hours.
Cool down before bed automatically.
Direct sun raises your unit’s operating temp by 10–15°F. Add shrubs or shade screens—but keep airflow open.
Don’t “set it and forget it.” Program daytime temps to 78°F and 72°F at night. Small changes = big savings.
If your system is 10+ years old, it may be costing you hundreds in lost efficiency. Newer models can cut energy bills by 30%+.
Keeping your HVAC system in peak condition doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear maintenance schedule, you’ll extend your system’s life and avoid surprise repairs, especially during Utah’s hottest months.
We can stay on top of these simple monthly checks to prevent bigger issues down the road via our Membership Program:
Task | Description | Tools Needed |
---|---|---|
Replace Air Filters | Prevent restricted airflow and dust buildup | New MERV 8–13 filter |
Check Thermostat | Ensure accurate readings; change batteries if needed | Batteries |
Inspect Vents | Remove blockages like furniture, dust, or pet hair | Vacuum |
Listen for Noises | Strange sounds = mechanical issues brewing | Your ears |
⚠️ Warning: Ignoring monthly maintenance can increase your cooling bill by 10–15%.
This is your HVAC’s busiest season—We can show it some love.
Clean the outdoor condenser coils (remove debris, hose down fins)
Check refrigerant levels (requires a licensed technician)
Inspect and seal ductwork
Test system startup in April or May
Clean drain lines to avoid backup and water damage
Calibrate thermostat settings for summer efficiency
Even with DIY maintenance, you need a licensed technician to do a full-system tune-up each year.
A full HVAC inspection covers:
Electrical connections
Refrigerant charge and pressure
Motor health and lubrication
Blower components
Coil cleanliness
Drainage system
System performance test
💬 At CMB HVAC we recommend scheduling in early spring (March–April) to beat the summer rush.
Too many homeowners wait for something to break before calling for help. Preventive care always costs less than emergency repairs.
Don’t just grab the cheapest filter on the shelf. Low-quality filters let in dust, pollen, and debris that clog your system.
Placing your thermostat in a sunlit area or near appliances gives inaccurate readings, making your AC work overtime.
Unsealed windows, doors, and ducts leak precious cooled air. It’s like running the AC with your windows open.
Running your system non-stop at low temps wears it down. Program your system for peak hours and nighttime cooling instead.
🔌 Smart thermostats can save you 8–12% annually on cooling costs.
If you notice any of these red flags, call our technicians immediately:
AC is blowing warm or weak air
Ice forming on the compressor or refrigerant lines
Loud grinding, hissing, or screeching sounds
Water is pooling near the indoor unit
Burning or moldy smells
The system won’t turn on or shuts off frequently
🚨 Don’t wait until the system fails during a 100°F weekend—fixing problems early saves time, money, and comfort.
That is an easy task – Give us at CMB HVAC a call and schedule the earliest time available for the check and potential repair of that system you rely so much on!
Prepping your HVAC system isn’t a summer chore—it’s an investment in your comfort, safety, and energy savings. Utah’s unique climate demands extra care, but with these tips, a solid schedule, and the right technician, you’ll stay ahead of the heat and avoid costly breakdowns.
Remember: A well-maintained HVAC runs smoother, lasts longer, and costs you less. So don’t wait—take action now while it’s still spring.
Taking advantage of this service now and save you thousands in future repairs while keeping your home cool and safe. Don’t wait until your AC breaks down—schedule your appointment today!
Every 30 days during high-use months (May–September), and every 60–90 days in cooler months.
Yes, but shut off the power first. Use a garden hose and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and bending the fins.
Set it to 78°F when home and 85°F when away. Use fans to help circulate cool air.
Absolutely. Smart thermostats can reduce cooling costs by up to 12% and offer rebates through local utility providers.
Look for SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher, the better. Systems older than 10 years are typically less efficient.
A seasonal tune-up typically costs $75–$150. Annual maintenance plans can range from $150–$300, depending on services included.