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Summer HVAC Checklist for Homeowners

Summer HVAC Checklist for Homeowners

July 14, 2025

Your Guide to Staying Cool and Efficient in Point Pleasant, NJ

Summer in Point Pleasant, NJ brings warm beach days, ocean breezes—and, of course, the need for a dependable and efficient air conditioning system. Whether you live near the inlet, along the bay, or in the heart of town, your HVAC system works overtime during New Jersey’s hot and humid months. A little proactive maintenance can go a long way toward preventing breakdowns, improving energy efficiency, and keeping your home consistently comfortable.

At ITAK Heating & Cooling, we know the unique climate challenges Point Pleasant residents face each summer. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive Summer HVAC Checklist—a simple, step-by-step guide to prepare your system for peak performance when you need it most.

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

An annual AC inspection and tune-up are essential for spotting issues early, optimizing performance, and maintaining warranty coverage. Most HVAC breakdowns happen in the middle of summer—and many of them could have been prevented with routine maintenance.

During a professional HVAC tune-up, a technician will:

  • Inspect and clean the evaporator and condenser coils

  • Check refrigerant levels and top off if needed

  • Test electrical components and capacitors

  • Lubricate moving parts

  • Check the thermostat and recalibrate settings if needed

  • Clear the condensate drain line

  • Inspect the blower motor and fan belt

  • Measure airflow and static pressure

For Point Pleasant homeowners, we recommend scheduling your tune-up in late spring or early summer before the hottest days arrive.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters

One of the easiest and most impactful HVAC maintenance tasks is replacing the air filter. A dirty filter reduces airflow, forces your system to work harder, and can increase energy costs.

Filter replacement tips:

  • Frequency: Every 30 to 90 days depending on usage and indoor air quality

  • Pets or allergies? Replace filters more often

  • Filter type: Check your system’s manual or ask your technician which filter (MERV rating) is best for your home

Clean filters improve air quality and extend the life of your system—especially important during high-pollen months near the Jersey Shore.

3. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Condenser

Your outdoor AC unit (condenser) needs unrestricted airflow to function efficiently. Leaves, grass clippings, and overgrown plants can block airflow and reduce performance.

What to do:

  • Clear at least 2 feet of space around the unit

  • Remove debris on top of or inside the unit

  • Trim nearby bushes or trees

  • Check for nests or signs of animals inside the unit

If your outdoor unit is exposed to salt air (common near the ocean or inlet in Point Pleasant), consider a condenser coil cleaning or corrosion-resistant coating.

4. Check Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is your first line of defense against energy waste and inconsistent cooling. Before summer begins, double-check your settings.

Summer thermostat tips:

  • Set the thermostat to 78°F when you're home, and raise it 5–8 degrees when you're away to save energy

  • If you have a programmable thermostat, set daily schedules for peak and off-peak times

  • Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for remote access, learning features, and energy reporting

Proper thermostat use can cut your cooling bill by up to 10% over the course of the summer.

5. Inspect Air Vents and Ducts

Your AC system can only perform as well as your ductwork allows. Leaky, dusty, or blocked air ducts reduce efficiency and unevenly cool your home.

What to inspect:

  • Make sure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed by furniture or curtains

  • Check for visible signs of dust buildup around vents

  • If you notice hot or cold spots in your home, have your ductwork inspected for leaks, gaps, or blockages

  • Consider professional duct cleaning if it's been more than 5 years

Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air—especially in older Point Pleasant homes.

6. Test the Condensate Drain Line

Your AC removes humidity from the air and drains it through a condensate line. Over time, this line can clog with algae, mold, or debris—leading to water backups or even system shutdowns.

How to test and maintain:

  • Locate the drain line near your indoor air handler (usually a PVC pipe)

  • Pour a cup of white vinegar or warm water through the line to clear buildup

  • Check for signs of moisture around the base of your unit

  • If you suspect a clog, schedule a service visit to avoid water damage

Point Pleasant’s summer humidity makes condensate line care especially important.

7. Evaluate System Performance

Once you’ve completed the basic maintenance steps, take some time to evaluate how your system is performing.

Ask yourself:

  • Is the system keeping all rooms evenly cool?

  • Are your energy bills higher than usual for the season?

  • Do you hear strange noises or notice unusual odors when the system runs?

  • Does the system short cycle (turn on and off frequently)?

If you notice any of these signs, it could indicate low refrigerant, a failing component, or an improperly sized system. Schedule a diagnostic check with ITAK Heating & Cooling to address small issues before they grow into expensive repairs.

8. Review Your HVAC System's Age and Efficiency

If your system is over 12–15 years old, even regular maintenance might not be enough to guarantee optimal performance. Older systems often have lower SEER ratings and may struggle to keep up with summer demands.

Signs it may be time to upgrade:

  • Frequent repairs or service calls

  • Rising cooling bills despite maintenance

  • Poor humidity control

  • Inconsistent comfort throughout the home

  • Uses outdated R-22 refrigerant (phased out in the U.S.)

New ENERGY STAR®-rated systems can cut cooling costs by 20–40% and keep your home more comfortable in extreme heat.

9. Consider Indoor Air Quality Add-Ons

While cooling is your system’s main job in summer, comfort also depends on air quality. If you suffer from allergies or musty indoor air, ask your HVAC technician about upgrades like:

  • Whole-home dehumidifiers

  • Media or HEPA filters

  • UV air purifiers

  • Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) for fresh air circulation

These add-ons can be especially helpful in humid coastal areas like Point Pleasant, where indoor air quality can suffer during muggy weather.

Summer in Point Pleasant means beach days, barbecues, and boardwalk fun—not surprise AC breakdowns. By following this summer HVAC checklist, you can avoid common cooling issues, reduce your energy bills, and keep your home cool and comfortable all season long.

Whether your home is right by the bay or tucked inland, ITAK Heating & Cooling is your trusted partner for seasonal HVAC maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. We understand the local climate and provide tailored solutions that work for your specific home and needs.