There’s something about the first real taste of warm weather that makes us throw open the windows, dig out the garden chairs, and maybe even daydream about lazy weekends with a cold drink in hand.
But before you get too cosy, ask yourself: is your home actually ready to handle the summer heat?
For most people, the answer hinges on one thing—your HVAC system. Whether you rely on a split unit, ducted air conditioning, or a hybrid setup, summer puts everything under pressure.
So, before things heat up (literally), it’s worth putting in a little effort to make sure everything’s in order.
1. Take a Look Around—Really Look
Don’t just glance at the thermostat and hope for the best. Go outside and check the outdoor unit. Is it surrounded by leaves or weeds? Inside, have a quick look at your vents—any blocked? Dusty? Give your system a fighting chance by clearing away what doesn’t belong.
Also, note anything odd. Damp spots. Rust. An unusual noise you’ve been ignoring for weeks. These little red flags tend to grow into bigger, pricier problems if left alone.
2. Your Filters Need Love Too
This one’s easy. If your HVAC system’s airflow feels weak or uneven, there’s a decent chance the filter’s the culprit. Most people forget to change theirs until they start sneezing or sweating—or both.
As a general rule, change the filter every few months. Got pets? You might need to do it more often. Some people vacuum their filters, but honestly, for the price of a new one, it’s not worth cutting corners.
3. Double-Check the Thermostat
Now’s a good time to make sure your thermostat hasn’t lost the plot. Is it set to cool? Is the temperature reasonable—not Arctic?
If you’re still using an old dial thermostat, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern ones let you programme your schedule or control things from your phone, which is perfect if you tend to forget to turn it off before going out.
4. Clean the Coils—Yes, You Can Do It Yourself
Your outdoor condenser unit works by dispersing heat. If the metal coils on the outside are caked in grime or covered in garden debris, it’s going to struggle.
Switch off the power first (always), then use a hose to gently rinse the coils. A soft brush can help loosen stuck-on dirt, but don’t use anything sharp. Those fins bend easily and once they’re bent, they’re a pain to fix.
5. Test the Airflow Room by Room
Spend a few minutes walking around your home with the system running. Are all rooms cooling evenly? If one space feels stuffy or warm, there could be a blocked vent or duct issue.
Sometimes it’s just a bookshelf or rug in the wrong place. Other times, it’s a bigger issue like crushed ductwork or closed dampers. Either way, better to find out now than during a heatwave.
6. Duct Cleaning—Overdue or Overhyped?
Here’s the thing: most people don’t need annual duct cleaning, despite what some companies might say. But if you’ve never had it done, or you’ve recently renovated, moved in, or noticed weird smells or dust build-up, it’s worth considering.
Cleaner ducts mean cleaner air—and a more efficient system. Just be sure to go with a reputable service. It’s not a DIY job.
7. Leaks That Cost You Money
Tiny gaps around doors, windows, and even duct joints can let cool air escape faster than you’d expect. You could be paying to cool the great outdoors.
Walk around the house and feel for draughts near windows and doors. Weather stripping, door snakes, and a bit of silicone sealant can go a long way.
8. The Forgotten Bit: The Drain Line
Most systems collect moisture and channel it outside through a pipe—often a small PVC one near the outdoor unit. If that line gets blocked, it can lead to puddles, musty smells, or worse, water damage.
Pouring a mix of vinegar and warm water through the drain every now and again can help keep things clear. If it’s already blocked, you might need a technician or a wet vac.
9. Book a Pre-Summer Service
A qualified HVAC technician will spot things you probably won’t. They’ll test the refrigerant, check the electrics, inspect the coils, and give the whole system a proper once-over.
Regassing your home aircon may also be necessary if the system isn’t cooling properly, as low refrigerant levels can significantly reduce performance.
In the long run, this small upfront cost can save you hundreds. Especially when the alternative is dealing with a breakdown during the hottest week of the year.
10. Use What You’ve Got (Smarter)
Even the best HVAC system won’t save you from sky-high energy bills if you don’t use it wisely. Close blinds during peak sunlight. Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air. Avoid heat-producing appliances like ovens during the day.
And don’t go mad with the temperature. Setting your thermostat to 18°C won’t cool your home faster—it just makes your system run longer and harder. Aim for something realistic.
A room temperature around 23–24°C is usually comfortable for most households, and workplace guidelines suggest at least 16°C—or 13°C for physically demanding tasks—as a reasonable minimum indoors.
Wrapping Up
Preparing your home for summer doesn’t mean overhauling your entire system. In fact, most of it boils down to simple habits: clean the filters, check for blockages, seal up leaks, and book a professional check before the mercury rises too high.
It’s one of those situations where a bit of early effort pays off in peace of mind later on. And when the sun’s blazing and your neighbours are complaining about their broken air con, you’ll be the one relaxing indoors—cool, calm, and collected.