The temperature is climbing, the days are getting longer, and the “cool” breeze of spring will soon turn into the humid heat of summer. At Able Air, we know there’s nothing worse than flipping your AC switch on the first 30°C day of the year only to realize it isn’t working.
Preparation is the secret to a stress-free summer. By taking a few simple steps now, you can improve your home’s efficiency, lower your energy bills, and avoid the mid-season scramble for a repair technician.
Below is your essential guide to setting your AC up for success.
1. Clean the Perimeter
Your outdoor condenser unit needs to “breathe” to release the heat it pulls from your home. Over the winter, leaves, tall grass, and wind-blown debris can crowd the unit, choking off its airflow.
- The Task: Clear a two-foot radius around your outdoor unit. Trim back any shrubs or weeds that have crept too close.
- The Benefit: Proper airflow prevents the system from overheating and ensures it runs as efficiently as possible.
2. Refresh Your Air Filters
This is the simplest yet most impactful maintenance task you can perform. A clogged filter forces your AC to work twice as hard to move air, which can lead to frozen coils or a burnt-out blower motor.
- The Task: Replace your furnace/AC filter before you start the cooling season.
- The Frequency: During heavy summer use, check the filter every month. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, you’ll likely need to change it more often to maintain high indoor air quality.
3. Clear the Indoor Vents
It’s easy for a rug to slide over a floor vent or a new piece of furniture to block a return air vent.
- The Task: Do a quick walkthrough of every room. Ensure that all supply vents are open and that nothing is obstructing the airflow.
- A Common Myth: Many people believe closing vents in unused rooms saves money. In reality, this creates backpressure in the system that can cause leaks in your ductwork or damage the compressor. Keep them open!
4. Run a “Test Drive”
Don’t wait for a heatwave to test your system. Give it a dry run while the weather is still mild.
- The Task: Set your thermostat to “Cool” and lower the temperature significantly. Listen for any unusual banging or grinding noises and check that cool air is actually flowing from the registers.
- The Benefit: If something is wrong, it’s much easier (and faster) to get a technician to your home in May than it is during the “emergency” rush in July.
5. Professional Maintenance: The Final Step
While homeowner maintenance is vital, a professional technician can see things the naked eye can’t. A professional tune-up involves checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the internal coils, and inspecting electrical components for wear and tear.
Stay Cool with Able Air
A little bit of preparation goes a long way toward a comfortable home. If you’ve completed your checklist and want the peace of mind that only a professional inspection can provide, we’re here to help.
Is your home ready for the heat?
Contact Able Air today to book your pre-summer tune-up and enjoy the season in total comfort.
With over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Able Air Conditioning & Heating proudly serves homeowners and businesses in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and nearby areas. Our award-winning team of licensed technicians is dedicated to providing reliable equipment and service our clients can trust.
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