With the weather heating up higher than it ever has before in the Los Angeles area, it is important that you routinely check your AC system to make sure it will get you through the summer. Regular maintenance can prevent any malfunctions and save money on energy bills. Here are a number of quick tricks that you can use to make sure that your unit is working as efficiently as it should. 
Change or Clean the Air Filter
Dirt and dust is stopped by your HVAC unit’s filter before it gets introduced to your home. As time goes along, these filters tend to get completely clogged, making it harder for your system to cool down your home.
By cleaning or replacing the air filter, the temperature of your home will be cooled more quickly, saving money on electricity and preventing wear and tear on your HVAC unit. Replacing a filter is easy and simply requires the purchase of a new one from any major retailer.
Keep the Area Around the Outdoor Unit Clear
It is important that your outdoor AC condenser unit is not tampered with by wildlife or plant growth. Any interference can cause damage to your unit and prevent it from functioning. Keeping the area around your unit clear will help to prevent any interruptions with daily operation.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save hundreds of dollars in electricity bills over the years. Having a thermostat that you can program allows you to control at what point your HVAC unit is activated and for how long. This can help you maintain a cool home only when it matters, instead of spending energy when no one is in the house! Many programmable thermostats can even be controlled from your Smartphone.
Seal Heating and Cooling Ducts
Closing all doors and windows is an immediate way to maintain the temperature of your home. By making sure that there is nowhere that cool air can escape from your home, you can prevent your air conditioning unit from over working. Sealing all heating and cooling ducts also saves a lot of energy.
Test your AC Unit Often
Check to see if your AC system is operating as it should. An easy way to do this is to lower the temperature on your thermostat and see if the temperature of your home changes appropriately. If nothing occurs, then you should follow some of the tips previously given.
Your HVAC system runs all throughout the year. It is important that you are constantly checking to see that it is working properly and to evaluate whether it needs a bit of maintenance. By taking proper care of your unit, you can save a lot of money on energy while still accommodating your need for comfortable temperature.
It is also important that energy is saved in Southern California during this time of severe drought. Simply using less electricity can help to reduce water waste at hydroelectric plants.