Getting Your HVAC System Ready for Summer

Summer is approaching, with the days heating up and color returning to landscapes. While it’s great to enjoy the outdoors, it’s also nice to retreat back into a cool, climate-controlled space on those days when things get a little too hot—as long as your AC is doing its job. 

Nothing brings down midsummer like having an underperforming HVAC or standalone central AC system.  

It’s best to be proactive. Here are a few simple actions you can take to ensure your air conditioning is ready for the summer heat. 

Change the Filter 

Whether you have a dedicated AC or HVAC system, your filter is critical to its performance. First and foremost, the filter is responsible for removing pollen, particles, and other agitators from your home’s air. It also protects the cooling system from larger particles that might otherwise clog or damage it. 

Should your filter become overly dirty, your system could start to underperform altogether. Not only does this result in a warmer home, but it’s also much harder on the cooling system. This can result in higher energy bills, additional repair bills, and complete system failure. 

The good news is changing your filter is cheap and easy.  

Clean Up Around the Outdoor Unit 

With any sort of centralized AC system, you’ll have a condenser unit outside. While these systems are designed for the outdoors, they’re also subject to debris and buildup over time. Make sure to brush off any debris, such as leaves, grass, twigs, etc., and keep the area around the unit clear. 

While you can do further cleaning, it may be best to have a professional inspect it. 

Unit Inspections 

Having your HVAC or central air system inspected by a professional once a year is a good idea. They can spot issues before they become full-blown problems, saving you money in the long run. In addition to checking for potential repairs, an inspector will make minor adjustments and clean things up to maximize your unit’s efficiency.  

Have Your Air Ducts Inspected and Cleaned 

In addition to having your AC system inspected, you should also have your air ducts inspected. Over time, dust and debris can build up. Left unchecked, these particles can start affecting airflow while also increasing the presence of dust and other agitating particles in your home’s air. Additionally, air ducts can be home to mold, rodents, and more. 

You should have your air ducts inspected and cleaned every 3-5 years. If you need air duct inspection and cleaning in Dayton, Ohio, Columbus, Ohio, and the surrounding areas, contact Air Duct Cleaning & Radon Company today! 

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing Before Basement Renovation

Short-term tests typically run for 48 to 96 hours. That’s enough to get a clear baseline before renovation. If you're on a tight timeline, we offer same-day professional radon testing, using calibrated digital monitors with faster turnaround and higher accuracy.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Schedule your test at least a week before framing or insulation begins — that gives you time to take action if mitigation is needed.

Often, yes. Finishing a basement reduces natural ventilation, seals air pathways, and creates negative pressure zones — all of which can trap radon gas inside. We frequently see radon levels double or triple after renovation.

If you plan to install drywall, flooring, or closed-cell insulation, test first. It's much harder to retrofit a system once the space is finished.

Absolutely. In fact, newer energy-efficient homes are often more airtight, which can amplify radon accumulation.
Radon isn’t about age — it’s about soil conditions, slab construction, and airflow. We’ve mitigated brand-new builds in Columbus that tested over 10.0 pCi/L before occupancy.

The EPA recommends testing every 2 years, but after a basement remodel, you should test immediately after the work is complete — even if you tested beforehand.

🎯 And if you already have a radon mitigation system, make sure to re-test after any HVAC upgrades, insulation changes, or new construction that may affect airflow.

  • Below 2.0 pCi/L: No action needed — considered low risk.
  • 2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially if children live in the home.
  • 4.0+ pCi/L: The EPA’s action threshold. Mitigation is strongly advised.

🔎 We’ve seen plenty of “borderline” homes spike to dangerous levels after finishing — so if you're anywhere near 4.0 pCi/L, don't wait.

Final Takeaway: Test First, Then Build

The only way to ensure a safe renovation is through early detection. Testing for radon before finishing your basement isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

Call (614) 799-8530 to schedule a professional radon consultation Licensed. Proven. Local. - Get answers before you build — and breathe cleaner air afterward.

Serving Columbus, Dayton, Springfield, Cincinnati, and all of Central Ohio

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