7 AC Maintenance Mistakes Arvada Homeowners Often Make (And How to Prevent Them)

Living in Arvada or Wheat Ridge, where summers can bring surprisingly high temps and long stretches of dry heat, your air conditioner isn’t just a comfort—it’s essential to surviving the season. But even well-meaning homeowners can unknowingly make mistakes that shorten the life of their system, lower efficiency, and drive up energy bills.

Below are 7 of the most common AC maintenance mistakes we see in Colorado homes, plus expert-backed tips to help you avoid them. These simple adjustments can save you hundreds each year and extend the life of your cooling system.

So read on or reach out to our Wheat Ridge and Arvada air conditioning experts for help!

Call (720) 538-8755

1. Skipping Annual AC Tune-Ups

Why it matters: Just because your AC is running doesn’t mean it’s running well. Without a professional inspection, you’re missing a chance to catch small problems before they turn into big ones.

What can go wrong:

• Undetected refrigerant leaks
• Dirty coils causing poor heat transfer
• Loose electrical connections
• Shortened system lifespan

What to do instead: Schedule yearly AC tune ups in Arvada every spring before the summer heat sets in. A pro will inspect refrigerant levels, clean coils, test electrical components, and verify your thermostat is properly calibrated.

2. Forgetting to Replace the Air Filter

Why it matters: Your air filter is your AC’s first line of defense against dust, dander, and debris. If it’s clogged, airflow drops and your system strains to keep up.

What can go wrong:

• Higher cooling costs
• Reduced airflow and uneven temperatures
• Increased allergens in your home
• Risk of frozen evaporator coils

What to do instead: Check your air filter monthly. If it looks dirty or discolored, replace it—especially if you have pets or allergies. During peak summer, you may need a new filter every 30 days.

3. Ignoring Strange Noises or Smells

Why it matters: Unusual sounds and odors are early signs that something isn’t right. Ignoring them could lead to serious system damage.

Red flags to watch for:

• Hissing or bubbling (refrigerant leak)
• Grinding or screeching (motor or belt issues)
• Musty smells (mold growth)
• Burning smells (electrical problems)

What to do instead: If your AC is acting up, don’t wait. Shut it down and call a professional for AC repair in Arvada. Early action often means a smaller repair bill.

4. Setting the Thermostat Too Low

Why it matters: Cranking your thermostat down to 65°F doesn’t cool your house faster. It just forces your AC to work longer than it should.

What can go wrong:

• Frozen coils
• Excess wear and tear
• Higher energy bills

What to do instead: For optimal comfort and efficiency, keep your thermostat between 74–78°F. If you don’t already have one, consider installing a smart thermostat—it’ll automatically adjust settings based on your schedule and outdoor conditions.

5. Blocking Air Vents or Registers

Why it matters: When vents are blocked, your AC can’t circulate air properly. That leads to uneven temperatures and inefficient operation.

Common culprits:

• Furniture pushed against floor or wall vents
• Rugs or curtains covering registers
• Dust buildup on vent grilles

What to do instead: Walk through your home and make sure vents are clear. Vacuum grilles regularly and consider vent deflectors if furniture placement is non-negotiable.

6. Attempting DIY Repairs

Why it matters: AC systems involve refrigerants, electricity, and complex components. One wrong move can lead to injury—or a much more expensive repair.

What can go wrong:

• Electrical hazards
• Voiding your manufacturer warranty
• Causing further damage

What to do instead: It’s fine to swap a filter or hose off the condenser coils, but when it comes to refrigerant levels, wiring, or internal components, call a certified HVAC expert. Need help fast? Mighty Pine offers trusted HVAC services in Arvada and HVAC services in Wheat Ridge.

7. Neglecting Your Outdoor Unit

Why it matters: Your outdoor condenser releases the heat pulled from inside your home. When it’s dirty or blocked, that process slows down—sometimes to a crawl.

What can go wrong:

• Overheating
• Compressor strain
• Reduced efficiency

What to do instead: Clear at least 2–3 feet of space around the unit. Remove weeds, grass clippings, and leaves. Spray off dirt with a garden hose, but avoid pressure washers, which can damage delicate fins. If the unit is clogged or seems unusually loud, schedule a cooling system inspection.

Thinking About AC Maintenance Service in Arvada or Wheat Ridge?

Avoiding these seven pitfalls can keep your system running better for longer. Whether you need a routine tune-up, urgent repair, or a full AC installation, the team at Mighty Pine Heating & Air is here to help.

Book your AC maintenance service in Arvada or the surrounding area today and keep your cool all summer long!

Call (720) 538-8755