Air-conditioning systems are being pushed harder than usual as temperatures around the country continue to rise. 

For families that depend on AC for comfort and safety, a handful of routine upkeep steps can lower the odds of a summer breakdown and help keep power costs from rising further.

Here's what to know

According to The Boca Raton Tribune, citing data from Cinch Home Services, U.S. Google searches for "air conditioning" were 202% above the long-term average, reaching a record high across more than 20 years of data. 

The increase comes as more homes require AC units amid rising global temperatures. It's more important than ever to regularly maintain your HVAC system to ensure you're operating it as efficiently as possible. 

Luckily, The Boca Raton Tribune offered five helpful maintenance tips from the home warranty experts at Cinch Home Services to help your HVAC last as long as possible while keeping your utility bills low. 

Cinch's advice centers on five basics: keep filters clean, replace them on time, verify that the filter is the right size and type, watch for signs of declining performance, and schedule a professional inspection at least once each year.

For homeowners considering more than routine maintenance, Palmetto's Comfort Plan network can help you find efficient heating and cooling solutions for your home and connect you with vetted installers. For many households, upgrading a heating and cooling system can be one of the strongest ways to lower utility bills and guard against rising energy costs.

More background

Dirty filters are one of the most common AC problems, the outlet reported. As dust, pollen, and pet hair build up, those particles can circulate through the home, worsening indoor air quality, making breathing harder for people with allergies or asthma, and forcing the system to use more energy.

Cinch says, as The Boca Raton Tribune reported, replacing filters every three months is a reasonable general guideline, though pet owners may need to change them every 30 to 60 days and households dealing with severe allergies may need monthly replacements. The wrong filter size or type can also lead to gaps, rattling, and reduced airflow, which can weaken cooling and drive up electric bills.

The outlet noted homeowners should also be alert to warning signs such as slower cooling, utility bills that rise without a clear explanation, and unusual sounds or moisture problems, including leaks or ice buildup on the unit. If those issues are ignored, they may indicate larger mechanical problems.

A yearly inspection can spot wear and tear before it becomes a costly breakdown during the hottest time of year, when repair appointments can be more difficult to book and keeping a home comfortable is toughest.

What can be done?

Begin with the filter. If it looks dusty, clean or replace it based on the manufacturer's instructions, and make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling it, Cinch Home Services advised. If you notice musty odors, mildew, or mold, stop using the unit until the issue is resolved.

An older system may be costing more than necessary. A newer efficient HVAC unit or heat pump can reduce waste, improve comfort, and lower monthly bills as energy prices continue to climb.

If you want a more efficient HVAC system but aren't ready to pay everything upfront, Palmetto's Comfort Plan offers $0-down options that can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 50% and includes 12 years of free maintenance.

Homeowners may be able to lower costs even more by pairing solar panels with electric appliances such as efficient HVAC systems. EnergySage makes it easy to find the best solar system and installer for your home and budget, with potential savings of up to $10,000 on installations.

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