How do I prepare my AC for summer

Start preparing your AC for summer about 2-4 weeks before you'll need it regularly. This gives you time to address any issues before the hot weather hits and HVAC companies get swamped with emergency calls.

Begin with the basics that you can safely handle yourself. Replace your furnace filter with a fresh one - a dirty filter restricts airflow and makes your AC work harder. Clear any debris, leaves, or vegetation from around your outdoor unit, maintaining at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides. Remove the outdoor unit's cover if you installed one for winter, and gently rinse the condenser coils with a garden hose to remove dirt buildup.

Check your thermostat and test the system before you need it. Switch your thermostat to cooling mode and set it a few degrees below room temperature to see if the AC kicks on. Listen for unusual sounds like grinding, squealing, or banging - these indicate problems that need professional attention. Make sure cool air is coming from all vents and that airflow feels strong.

In Ottawa's climate, spring AC preparation is especially important because our systems sit idle for 6-7 months. During this downtime, seals can dry out, refrigerant can leak, and small animals sometimes damage components. Many Ottawa homeowners discover AC problems on the first hot day in May or June, which is peak season for HVAC service calls.

Schedule professional maintenance if your system is over 3 years old or had issues last summer. A licensed technician will check refrigerant levels, test electrical connections, clean coils thoroughly, and catch potential problems before they become expensive repairs. This is especially crucial for older systems or if you noticed higher energy bills last cooling season.

If your AC doesn't start up properly or isn't cooling effectively during your test, don't wait - call for service immediately. Spring is the best time to address AC repairs because you'll get faster service and avoid emergency rates. For a comprehensive AC tune-up or to address any cooling issues, Ottawa HVAC Pro offers spring maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently all summer long.

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