5 AC Tips to Stay Cool this Summer

Summer is still in full swing. Now is a good time to ensure your AC is functioning smoothly.

Keeping your truck’s air conditioning system in good condition is about more than staying comfortable—it’s key to staying alert and safe while driving. Whether you’re making deliveries across town or hauling long distances, a well-maintained AC system helps ensure steady performance and focus behind the wheel. To help extend your system’s life and avoid costly repairs, here are five maintenance checks that keep things running smoothly all summer long.

1. Listen to the Motor

Is there noise coming from your blower motor? Even if you feel cool air circulating, the noise may be an indication of the need to replace the blower motor. Buzzing or grinding sounds may indicate a blower that is about to fail, and a blower working at less than full efficiency can put a greater load on the rest of the cooling system.

2. Check for Leaks

Sometimes you can hear a leak before you see it. It can sound like a hiss or bubbling noise, alerting you to the presence of a problem. Vigilantly check for potential refrigerant leaks, which are often revealed by the presence of refrigerant oil on or under the location of the leak. Avoid leaks by regularly inspecting your hoses and fittings for cracks, wear, or other issues. Pay special attention to bends and flex points, as well as the spots where hoses are secured, since these areas are more prone to damage. Replace any faulty hoses rather than simply fixing them, and make sure to tighten or re-fasten any loose fittings to prevent leaks. 

3. Observe Cold-Weather Behavior

Windows fogging up in the winter could be an early indicator of problems to come in the summer. A truck’s AC often works in tandem with its defroster to remove condensation from the front and side windows. If your windows frequently "steamed up" during the cold months, odds are that there will be issues when hot weather rolls around.

4. Keep It Clean

Remove dirt and debris from the system on a regular basis. Pay special attention to the condenser, where leaves, mud, bird feathers, or bugs may have accumulated. Using an air blower, vacuum, or soap and water, gently clean the condenser. Also check cabin air filters for debris, and wash or vacuum dirty filters.

5. Take It to the Experts

While these tips will help you uncover the most obvious issues, a complete inspection every year will keep your AC system operating at peak efficiency. Your TRP^® local dealer has the equipment and expertise to test your system from compressor to condenser to evaporator, with over 25 checkpoints. They’ll also replace the receiver dryer and recharge the refrigerant when necessary.

Ensure you’ll be running cool when the mercury rises by taking proper care of your AC system today.