Get Ahead of the Heat

Why Early AC Maintenance Matters

As your unit works to manage Toronto’s heat and humidity, it really pushes your cooling system to its limits. Without proper maintenance, your AC may face:

• Higher energy bills
• Weakened performance
• Unexpected breakdowns
• Shorter system lifespan

Getting your unit checkup before the season starts can help reduce those risks, and insure that your home stays cool and comfortable when it matters most.

Know Your System: The Basics

Your air conditioner has two main parts working together:

• Indoor Unit (Evaporator/Air Handler)
  Draws heat from your home’s air and sends cooled air through your ducts.
• Outdoor Unit (Condenser)
  Releases collected heat outside and houses key components like the compressor.

Together, they move heat out of your home—creating that refreshing chill inside.

7 Steps to a Summer-Ready Air Conditioner

1. Keep your Filter Clean
   Why it matters: When your filters are clogged they can restrict airflow, which can reduce the cooling power of your system.
   Tip: Have your filters changed every 30–60 days, and if you have pets or allergies, consider more frequent replacements.
2. Clean the Outdoor Condenser Coils
   Why it matters: When your outside condenser coils are dirty they can’t release heat properly, causing your system to overwork.
   Tip: Turn off the unit, clear any debris, and give the outdoor coil and gentle rinse with a garden hose.
3. Inspect Refrigerant Lines
   Why it matters: Make sure there aren’t any leaks in your system or damaged insulation, as both can reduce cooling and increase energy use.
   Tip: Look for wear or missing insulation and contact a pro if anything seems off.
4. Test the Thermostat
   Why it matters: If your thermostat is miscalibrated or outdated, it could lead to inefficiencies managing your system.
   Tip: Keep your thermostat updated or consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and potential energy savings.
5. Clear Around the Outdoor Unit
   Why it matters: Proper airflow helps your system run efficiently, and debris around the outdoor unit could block air from properly escaping.
   Tip: Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit—trim back plants and remove debris.
6. Book a Professional Tune-Up
   Why it matters: A certified tech is trained so that they can spot hidden issues and ensure everything runs smoothly.
   Tip: Annual maintenance should include a full inspection, coil cleaning, electrical checks, and refrigerant testing.
7. Consider an Upgrade if Your System Is Aging
   Why it matters: Older ACs cost more to run and break down more often.
   Tip: If your unit is over 10 years old, a modern high-efficiency system could cut energy use and boost comfort.

Cool Air, Healthy Air

Summer comfort isn’t just about cool air — it’s also about healthy air. Humidifiers and air purifiers can help balance humidity, reduce allergens, and support respiratory health all year long.