Your trusty air conditioner works overtime during the hot summer months, especially during the heatwaves we’ve seen in Calgary. As a homeowner, you don’t want to deal with breakdowns in the middle of the hottest days of the year, especially when nothing can compare once you’ve experienced air conditioning.
Maintaining your HVAC system during the summer gives your air conditioning the best chance of performing its best throughout the hottest months. Here are our top tips for maintaining your HVAC system and choosing the best air conditioning service in Calgary.
Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly
One of the simplest yet most crucial tasks is to check and replace your HVAC system’s air filters. Dirty or clogged filters reduce airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. For optimal performance, replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on the presence of pets or allergens in your home.
Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit
The outdoor condenser unit plays a key role in cooling your home. Ensure it’s free from debris, such as leaves, grass clippings, and dirt, which can obstruct airflow. Gently clean the fins and coils with an air hose, being careful not to bend the delicate fins. Also, ensure at least two feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
Ensure Proper Insulation
Good insulation keeps cool air inside your home, reducing the workload on your HVAC system. Check your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to ensure they are adequately insulated. Consider upgrading insulation if your home is older or if you’ve noticed inconsistent cooling.
Clean or Seal Ductwork
Dust, debris, and even pests can accumulate in your ductwork over time, reducing your system’s efficiency. Have your ducts professionally cleaned every few years, and seal any leaks to prevent cool air from escaping. This will improve airflow and overall cooling performance.
Check Thermostat Settings
Adjust your thermostat to save energy and reduce strain on your HVAC system. Set it a few degrees higher when you’re not home, or consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically. This will help maintain comfort while reducing energy consumption.
Monitor Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is essential for your air conditioner to function properly. Low refrigerant levels can indicate a leak and lead to inefficient cooling or even system failure. If your system isn’t cooling as well as it should, have a professional check and replenish the refrigerant as needed.
Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Ensure that furniture, rugs, or curtains are not blocking vents and registers. Blocked vents restrict airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and less efficiently. Keep these areas clear to ensure even cool air distribution throughout your home.
Use Ceiling Fans to Your Advantage
Ceiling fans help circulate cool air, making your home feel cooler without overburdening your HVAC system. Set fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air downward, enhancing the cooling effect.
Recognize the Signs of Potential Issues
Stay alert for signs that your HVAC system might need professional attention. These can include unusual noises, inconsistent temperatures, or a spike in energy bills. Addressing these issues early can prevent larger, more costly problems down the line.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Annual professional maintenance is essential to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently. A technician will check for potential issues, clean components, and ensure that your system operates at peak performance. This preventative care can extend the lifespan of your system and prevent costly breakdowns during the hottest months.
The Value of Pre-Season Maintenance
Getting furnace maintenance as summer ends is key for ensuring your heating system is ready to perform efficiently when the cold weather hits. A service performed by a professional can indicate and fix issues before they become costly problems, extend the lifespan of your furnace and lower your utility bills by improving energy efficiency. This preventive step allows you to enjoy reliable warmth throughout the winter while avoiding unexpected breakdowns and high energy bills.
Air Conditioning Service in Calgary from The Heating Ninja
By following these tips, homeowners can keep their HVAC systems running smoothly throughout the summer, ensuring a comfortable and energy-efficient home. If you encounter issues or need professional assistance, The Heating Ninja is ready to help with expert service and reliable products.
The Heating Ninja is a trusted expert in HVAC installation and maintenance, offering reliable, high-quality air conditioning service in Calgary to keep your home cool and comfortable during the summer months. With over a decade of experience, The Heating Ninja takes pride in delivering top-tier service, from precise system sizing and installation to ongoing maintenance.
We work exclusively with trusted brands like Trane, Tosot, Gree and Carrier, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current system or need professional maintenance, The Heating Ninja is committed to helping you beat the heat. Plus, with flexible financing options, we make it easy for you to stay comfortable during the summer without breaking the bank.
