As we edge closer to summer, more Edmontonians are prioritizing getting their ACs repaired, maintained, and replaced. After all, no one wants to get caught up without proper cooling in a sweltering heat wave come summer. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, we’ve got your back.
Join us at Weiss-Johnson as we unpack four of the most common, but sometimes surprising, reasons your home’s AC unit may not be performing at its best. Let’s dive in!
#1: Lack of Regular Maintenance Is Catching Up
AC maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential for system longevity. Here’s our quick list of regular maintenance tasks you should be performing on your AC unit:
- Wiping off dirt and debris from surfaces
- Clear leaves, dirt, and debris from outdoor units
- Changing the air filter every few months
- Inspect the visible sections of the air vents
That said, while self-service maintenance is essential, you’ll occasionally still need an expert’s eye. Central air conditioner units are complex, with no shortage of complicated working parts. It’s best practice to have a certified HVAC technician come in seasonally for an inspection. Technicians are trained to notice even the most minor signs of disorder, and can save on time and money on preventable AC repairs in the long run.
#2: Restricted Airflow Bringing Your Cooling to a Standstill
Your home’s HVAC works as a unified system, designed with the whole in mind, not just separate parts. Every component, from air vents to ducts, must be working in sync for your AC to work efficiently. If one or more HVAC components aren’t taking in air properly, the rest of the system lags.
To prevent air flow problems, keep an eye on these common obstructions:
- Dirty AC filters
- Furniture blocking air vents
- Clogged air vents
- Closed AC registers
If you notice any of these issues, address them right away. Spending five minutes out of your day now can save you hundreds of dollars in the future.
#3: Improper Thermostat Settings Adding Extra Strain
Heat waves can be frustrating, especially if your home seems to be cooling slowly. But if you’re setting your AC as low as possible in hopes of quicker heating, you’re actually doing more harm than good. Setting your thermostat extremely low only puts extra strain on your AC’s compressor and fan motor. Central air conditioning units work at a consistent pace regardless of the temperature.
To avoid making your AC work harder (and keep your AC repair bills low), set your thermostat at a consistent, moderately cool temperature.
#4: Edmonton Heatwaves Stressing Older AC Systems
Many neighbourhoods in Edmonton feature homes built in the 1960s or earlier. While home renovations are common, regular AC repair and replacements can sometimes fall through the cracks. If you’re searching for the nearest AC repair near you, but can’t remember the last time your unit was replaced, it may be overdue for a replacement.
Without maintenance, the average AC unit will typically last anywhere from 15 to 18 years. But if you’re looking to increase your unit’s lifespan, the number one thing you can do is regular maintenance visits from a certified technician. By doing so, your AC can potentially last for 25 years!
Before Your AC Taps Out, Tag Us In.
With nearly 50 summers of keeping Edmonton cool, Weiss-Johnson is your go-to team for top-rated HVAC solutions. If you’re in the Edmonton area and are looking for comprehensive AC repairs near you, you can count on us.
Still on the fence? Check out our testimonials from our happy customers—from homeowners to business owners alike. Then reach out to us when you’re ready and get one step closer to a cool, worry-free summer.