Summer is right around the corner, and although many of us are excited about the thought of a hike at Grouse Mountain or a trip to Jericho Beach, we often forget about the soaring temperatures that come with it. 

As we prepare for our next trip, it’s important that we also create a plan to deal with the heat. For homeowners with air conditioners, you may think this is something to ignore, but the truth is the effectiveness of your cooling system doesn’t happen automatically. It requires proactive maintenance to ensure it’s up to the task when the hottest days strike.

1 – Regular Filter Checks and Changes

The first important step in maintaining your air conditioner is to regularly check and change the air filter. Filters must be clean to trap dust, debris, and irritants that may otherwise circulate your house and can become clogged quickly. 

Clogs in air filters cause these particles to spread throughout the air, decreasing airflow and forcing your unit to work harder than necessary, reducing efficiency and raising electricity costs. 

Changing or cleaning filters every 30-90 days (depending on their type and how often you use your AC) is the best way to ensure optimal performance.

2 – Consistent Coil Cleaning

Cleaning the coils of your unit is another essential step to ensure it runs effectively during the summer months. The evaporator and condenser coils collect dirt over time which prevents it from absorbing heat effectively.

While a clean air filter slows down this process, given enough time, dirt will still make its way into the coils, reducing their ability to function as desired. Professional bi-annual servicing cleans these coils, ensuring a smooth run during summer.

3 – Annual System Checks and Tune-ups

Beyond the filter and coils, many additional components must work harmoniously to power an air conditioner. Issues with these components are difficult to detect but can lead to widespread problems. 

System checks and tune-ups ensure all parts perform their functions adequately, as professionals will inspect coolant levels, fix any leaks, measure airflow via the evaporator coil, verify the electric control sequence, and perform many other tasks.

Preventative maintenance spares you from unexpected breakdowns in the sweltering heat when you need your AC system most and prolongs the life of your unit. The recommended tune-up frequency is once a year, preferably during spring to prepare the machine for regular summer usage.

Hilltop Plumbing & Heating Ltd. is a licensed bonded and insured plumbing and gas fitting company, proudly serving the White Rock and South Surrey area for over 50 years.

Trusted for over four decades, we have been providing plumbing & heating solutions, backed up by our guaranteed workmanship and parts warranty.