Preventative A/C Maintenance: Your Pre-Summer Checklist for Calgary Homes
When Calgary’s temperatures climb, your air conditioner keeps your home livable. But if you wait until that first heatwave to fire it up, you’re rolling the dice. Systems that sit idle all winter can run less efficiently, break down under pressure, or stop working altogether.
Use this pre-summer A/C maintenance checklist to make sure your system’s ready when you need it most.
Why Pre-Summer Maintenance Matters
A clean, properly maintained unit uses up to 15% less energy. That means lower utility bills and less strain on your system when it’s working hardest.
Many breakdowns start as minor issues, like clogged coils, low refrigerant, or loose electrical connections. Address them early, and you can avoid the emergency repair call in July.
Most manufacturers require annual maintenance as part of their warranty terms. Skipping it could leave you footing the bill if anything goes wrong.
Month-by-Month Pre-Summer Checklist
Here’s your month-by-month game plan to make sure your A/C is ready before Calgary turns up the heat.
April: Basic Prep
- Replace or clean your air filter. If your system runs frequently, change it monthly.
- Test your thermostat. Replace batteries and make sure it switches between heating and cooling without delay.
- Inspect vents and ductwork. Make sure nothing is blocking airflow inside your home.
- Check the outdoor condenser unit. Clear away leaves, dirt, or other debris that may have piled up over the winter.
May: Deep-Dive Tasks
- Clean the condenser coil. Built-up dirt reduces the unit’s ability to cool your home effectively.
- Lubricate moving parts. Motors, belts, and bearings must move smoothly to prevent strain.
- Inspect refrigerant lines. Look for visible signs of wear or leaks, cracked insulation, oily spots, or frost buildup.
- Tighten electrical connections to prevent shorts, inconsistent cooling, and safety hazards.
Early June: System Test
- Switch to cooling mode. Let the system run for 15–30 minutes. Watch for weak airflow or unusual noises.
- Calibrate your thermostat. Ensure it’s reading accurately, within one degree of a trusted thermometer.
- Check the condensate drain. A blocked line can lead to water damage or mould growth. If water isn’t draining properly, clear the line or call a pro.
DIY vs. Professional AC Tune-Up
You can handle some tasks yourself, like changing filters, hosing off the condenser, or checking the thermostat. However, for any issues involving refrigerant, electrical systems, or deep internal components, it’s best to bring in a certified HVAC technician.
At BVCM, our techs follow Calgary-specific protocols that account for our dry climate and seasonal transitions. We don’t just check the box, we make sure your system’s running right. And our work comes backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Get Your Calgary AC Ready Before the Heat Hits
Calgary’s weather doesn’t always give you time to react. A little preventative maintenance now can save you serious money (and stress) when the heat arrives.
Book your pre-summer tune-up with BVCM today. We’ll ensure your system is summer-ready for when you need it most.
