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Summer AC Maintenance Checklist (For Homeowners in Thunder Bay)
As summer temperatures rise in Thunder Bay, your air conditioner works harder than any other time of year. Regular AC maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, lowers energy bills, and extends the life of your system.
Use this summer AC maintenance checklist to keep your air conditioner running efficiently — and know when it’s time to call a professional.
Why Summer AC Maintenance Matters
Neglecting AC maintenance can lead to:
Poor cooling performance
Higher hydro bills
Unexpected breakdowns during heat waves
Shortened system lifespan
In peak summer, emergency AC repairs in Thunder Bay often happen because of issues that could’ve been prevented with basic maintenance.
Summer AC Maintenance Checklist
1. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
How often: Every 1–3 months
A dirty air filter restricts airflow and forces your AC to work harder.
Tip:
Replace disposable filters
Wash reusable filters with water and let them fully dry
This is the #1 cause of weak airflow complaints.
2. Clean the Outdoor Condenser Unit
Your outdoor AC unit pulls in air to release heat — dirt and debris block this process.
What to do:
Clear leaves, grass, and debris around the unit
Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance
Gently rinse the condenser coils with a hose
Do not use a pressure washer.
3. Check Thermostat Settings
Make sure your thermostat is:
Set to cooling mode
Programmed correctly for day/night schedules
Responding accurately to temperature changes
Upgrading to a smart thermostat can reduce cooling costs by 10–15%.
4. Inspect Air Vents & Registers
Walk through your home and:
Ensure vents are open and unobstructed
Remove furniture blocking airflow
Check for uneven cooling between rooms
Uneven temperatures may indicate duct issues or low refrigerant.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises
Call a professional if you hear:
Grinding
Screeching
Banging
Clicking at startup/shutdown
These often signal motor, fan, or electrical problems that worsen quickly.
6. Check for Water Leaks
Condensation is normal — pooling water is not.
Inspect:
The condensate drain line
The indoor unit base
Nearby flooring or drywall
Clogged drain lines are a common summer service call.
7. Monitor Cooling Performance
If your AC:
Blows warm air
Takes too long to cool
Runs constantly
You may have:
Low refrigerant
Dirty coils
Compressor issues
These require professional diagnosis.
8. Schedule Professional AC Maintenance
Even if everything seems fine, a professional AC tune-up includes:
Refrigerant level checks
Electrical inspection
Coil cleaning
Efficiency testing
Most manufacturers require annual maintenance to keep warranties valid.
When to Call an HVAC Professional in Thunder Bay
Call right away if:
AC blows warm air
System won’t turn on
Breaker keeps tripping
Ice forms on the unit
Your home won’t cool during a heat wave
Delaying service can turn a small fix into a major repair.
Contact Us:
Phone: +1 (807) 698-8009
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