It’s Time for an AC Tune-Up

May is a month of seasonal transformation around Portland. The rain has let up these last months compared to previous years, and the longer, sunnier days we’ve had have hinted at the warmer summer weather experts are expecting.

At Sun Glow Home Services, we believe in staying ahead of the weather curve, and nothing says “prepared” like a preseason air conditioner tune-up. Whether you have a central air system, ductless mini split, or heat pump, now is the ideal time to schedule professional air conditioning maintenance.

If you’re tempted to hold off until June or July, here’s why you should schedule your AC maintenance now—and how it can benefit your comfort, wallet, and system’s lifespan.

Beat the Rush (and the Heat)

When the first big heatwave hits the greater Portland area, HVAC companies get swamped with repair calls. Emergency appointments take priority to ensure the safety of our community, and the last thing you want is to keep postponing your annual service.

Booking your AC tune-up with Sun Glow Home Services in May guarantees faster, more flexible scheduling—no long wait times or mid-July panic. Plus, with cooler temperatures still lingering, you won’t be stuck sweating it out if we need to make any necessary repairs before summer.

What’s Included in an AC Tune-Up?

A professional tune-up is more than just a quick check—it’s a comprehensive evaluation and refresh of your cooling system. Our North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified technicians perform a detailed inspection and maintenance service that typically includes:

• Full system inspection: We check for signs of wear, corrosion, or malfunction across key components.
• Refrigerant check: Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling capacity and increase strain on the compressor.
• Electrical connection tightening: Prevent safety hazards and power failures before they start.
• Thermostat calibration: Ensure your thermostat reads temperatures accurately and controls your system efficiently.
• Coil cleaning: Dirty coils reduce efficiency and can increase your energy bills. We clean them thoroughly to boost performance.
• Fan and motor lubrication: Reduce friction and wear on moving parts to extend system life.
• Condensate drain inspection and cleaning: Clear any clogs that could lead to leaks, water damage, or mold.
• Airflow check: We verify that your ducts and vents are distributing cool air evenly throughout your home.

This isn’t just routine upkeep—it’s proactive care that can prevent inconvenient breakdowns and help you stay comfortable all season long.

Portland’s Unpredictable Weather Is No Joke

We all know how temperamental Portland’s spring weather can be. One day it’s 65 and sunny; the next, it’s drizzling and barely 50—and don’t forget the risk of unusually high days in the 70s.

This back-and-forth can be rough on HVAC systems, especially if your AC has been sitting idle since last fall.

A tune-up ensures all components are clean, functional, and ready to handle Portland’s warmer days. Even if you don’t need to use your AC right away, you’ll be prepared for those early bursts of summer we often get in late April through May.

The Benefits: More Than Just Cool Air

1. Extend the Life of Your AC System

Your air conditioner is an investment—one you want to last as long as possible. Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to make sure it does.

During a professional tune-up, technicians inspect, clean, and test every part of the system, from refrigerant levels to coils, electrical connections, and the thermostat. This not only helps keep your system running efficiently, but it also allows you to catch small issues before they become expensive breakdowns.

In Portland, where homes may use heat pumps year-round, spring maintenance is even more crucial. It’s a good reset for systems that switch between heating and cooling throughout the year.

2. Save Energy (and Money)

Dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, or worn-out parts force your AC system to work harder, which means higher energy bills. A well-maintained system uses less energy and cools your home more effectively.

In a city like Portland, where many homeowners strive to live sustainably, this is a big win. Regular AC tune-ups not only reduce your environmental impact but also help lower your utility bills heading into the summer cooling season.

3. Improve Indoor Air Quality in Portland

Spring is also allergy season, and Portlanders know how intense the pollen can get. If your AC system is dirty or clogged, it might be blowing more than just cool air—it could be circulating dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens throughout your home.

A tune-up often includes replacing or cleaning filters and inspecting your system for buildup that affects indoor air quality. Breathe easier by keeping your system clean and properly filtered before allergy season kicks into high gear.

4. Peace of Mind All Summer

Let’s face it—there’s nothing worse than realizing your AC doesn’t work on the first hot day of the year. An early spring tune-up helps you avoid unpleasant surprises and ensures your system is primed for action whenever you need it.

Plus, if you’re planning to travel during the summer or host guests, you’ll know your home will stay comfortable without any last-minute maintenance emergencies.

DIY AC Maintenance Tasks

Between professional tune-ups, you can help your system by performing select maintenance tasks on your own.

1. Change or Clean the Air Filter: A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and reducing air quality. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones every one to three months.

2. Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit: Remove leaves, grass, sticks, or other debris from around your outdoor condenser unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating or damage.

3. Check the Thermostat Settings: Make sure your thermostat is working properly and set to the right temperature for the season. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better efficiency.

4. Clean the AC Vents and Registers: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and pet hair from supply and return vents. This improves airflow and indoor air quality.

5. Inspect the Condensate Drain Line: A clogged drain line can cause leaks or water damage. Flush the line with a mixture of warm water and vinegar to keep it clear and prevent mold growth.

Ready to Schedule Your AC Tune-Up?

Sun Glow Home Services has served Portland homeowners with integrity and expertise since 1972. Our NATE-certified technicians know the climate challenges Oregon families face, and we’re committed to delivering honest, high-quality service every time.

Avoid the summer scramble—book your preseason AC tune-up with Sun Glow Home Services today. Whether you live in Hillsboro, Sandy, Salem, or anywhere in between, we treat your home like our own. Our preseason tune-ups are tailored to help you get the best performance and longest life out of your system, because we believe in proactive comfort.

Call us now at 503-658-9578 or request service online. Don’t wait until the heat is on—get a head start on summer with Sun Glow Home Services!