As fall approaches in Saskatoon, homeowners start focusing on indoor comfort and preparing their homes for colder weather. One task that often gets overlooked is end-of-season maintenance for the air conditioner. After working hard through the warm summer months, your AC deserves the right attention before it’s shut off for the rest of the year. Skipping this step can lead to higher repair costs, reduced efficiency, and a shorter system life.
Proper maintenance in early September is not about fixing what’s broken. It is about preventing issues before they show up next season. Saskatoon’s changing weather, with cooler nights quickly moving into freezing temperatures, means your AC will likely sit unused for months. That downtime can lead to problems if the unit is not properly cleaned and checked. Taking a few simple maintenance steps now will make sure your equipment is ready to cool again when the heat comes back.
Cleaning and Inspecting Air FilterS
When air filters get clogged with dust, dirt, or pet dander, your AC has to work harder to keep your home comfortable. This increases energy use and strains internal parts. Clean filters also support better indoor air quality, which matters even more when homes stay closed up during the winter months.
Luckily, air filters are usually easy to check and update. You do not need special tools. Just make sure to turn off power to the unit before you begin.
Here is how to handle your AC filters at the end of the summer:
1. Locate the filter. This is often behind a vent grille, inside the indoor unit, or in a return air duct.
2. Remove the filter and hold it up to a light. If you cannot see much light passing through, it is likely blocked and should be replaced.
3. If it is reusable, rinse it with cool water and let it dry completely before putting it back.
4. If it is disposable, replace it with a new filter that matches the size and rating.
5. Check filters monthly during periods of heavy use and replace them according to manufacturer guidelines or more often if dust builds up quickly.
Changing filters can seem like a small task, but it has a big impact. Especially after a dry Saskatoon summer, AC systems can gather more airborne particles than usual. Staying ahead of filter buildup keeps the system running smoothly and helps avoid costly breakdowns down the line.
Checking Refrigerant Levels and Inspecting Coils
As your system wraps up its cooling duties for the year, ensuring proper refrigerant pressure and clean coils is key to preserving performance. Refrigerant is not something that gets used up. If the level is low, it usually points to a leak. Left alone, leaks can damage your compressor or freeze components.
Checking refrigerant pressure and internal parts should be left to our certified professionals. Still, there are signs homeowners can look for that may suggest refrigerant issues:
– The air coming from the vents is warmer than expected
– Ice forming on the refrigerant lines or unit
– Hissing or bubbling sounds near the lines
– Higher indoor humidity while the AC is running
Dirty coils, both inside and out, can also reduce efficiency. The evaporator coil absorbs heat from indoor air, while the condenser coil releases it outside. If either is clogged, the system has to work much harder to deliver basic cooling.
Although coil cleaning is part of a professional service visit, basic inspection is helpful:
– Look at the outdoor coil through the top or side panel grilles
– Check for anything blocking airflow, such as grass clippings, dust, or leaves
– Avoid bending the coil fins as they are soft and easy to damage
Scheduling a check-up with our technicians in Saskatoon ensures these areas are handled properly before your system enters its long winter rest. A quick look now can prevent a larger problem and a bigger repair bill when you start your AC again in spring.
Inspecting and Cleaning Outdoor Unit
The outdoor unit of your AC system is exposed to more than just air. Dust, leaves, twigs, and even small garbage can gather around or inside it during the summer. If this debris blocks airflow, your system has to work harder and can overheat or wear out faster. Heading into colder weather, it’s a good time to check that the outdoor unit is clean, protected, and ready to sit idle for the winter.
Start by looking at the area around the unit. Bushes, tall grass, or weeds may have grown close to the fins and housing. Trimming this back a metre or so will give it the space it needs. Then check for any debris like mulch, grass cuttings, or leaves that may have blown up against the sides or underneath.
Once clear, follow these steps for a basic visual inspection and surface cleaning:
– Turn off all power to the AC unit at the breaker
– Remove any visible debris or objects resting on or around the unit
– Use a soft broom to brush off the outer fins and top grate
– Gently hose down the exterior to rinse away dirt. Use a light spray and go from the inside out if possible
– Do not use a pressure washer or bend the fins
Also, take a moment to check the base. Standing water or poor drainage around the unit can lead to rust or freezing damage. If you notice any issues, mention them when scheduling a fall inspection.
Scheduling Professional Maintenance Before Winter
Even when everything looks and sounds fine, hidden problems can develop toward the end of the cooling season. That is why a professional tune-up in early fall is worth the time. It gives our technicians in Saskatoon a chance to catch small warning signs such as loose wiring, worn belts, or weak airflow before they cause trouble later.
Here is what a professional fall maintenance visit may include:
– Inspecting electrical parts for wear or damage
– Checking refrigerant pressure and looking for signs of leaks
– Cleaning the evaporator and condenser coils
– Verifying thermostat settings and system response
– Inspecting ductwork and airflow
– Lubricating moving parts if needed
Residents in Saskatoon deal with long stretches of very cold weather. Having your AC professionally serviced before it goes idle ensures that any current problems do not carry over to spring. It also allows time to order any replacement parts and complete necessary repairs, so you are not caught off guard when it warms up again.
Consider it the same way you would prepare your vehicle before winter. It helps everything run smoother and last longer.
Preparing Your AC for Storage
Once your AC has been cleaned and checked, a few extra steps may be needed to protect it through the off-season. Snow and iced-up leaves can settle into the outside unit. Animals sometimes look for cozy spots to nest inside if it is not shielded properly.
To prevent avoidable damage while your AC is off:
– Cover the top of the outdoor unit with a breathable waterproof cover. Do not wrap it completely, as trapped moisture can cause rust
– Make sure the disconnect switch stays off to keep the unit from turning on accidentally if temperatures rise
– Check the insulation on the refrigerant lines. Damaged insulation should be replaced before cold weather arrives
– For split systems with indoor units, dust or gently vacuum around vents and ensure there is no moisture buildup in or around the indoor coil
– Mark your calendar to have the system inspected again in spring before restarting it
A careful shutdown in the fall helps avoid problems when you turn the AC on again next season.
Keep Your AC in Prime Condition
Getting your air conditioner ready for fall protects your investment and helps avoid early repair bills. Simple tasks such as filter replacement, basic clean-up, and scheduling a professional inspection make a big difference when it is time to cool your home again.
If you live in Saskatoon, you know how quickly the weather changes. Being proactive now helps make sure your system is clean, sealed off from the elements, and ready when warm temperatures return. A well-maintained AC starts easier, runs more efficiently, and lasts longer, giving you peace of mind when the seasons shift.
Efficiency Heating, Cooling & Fireplaces understands that keeping your AC in top shape is essential for year-round comfort in Saskatoon. If you’re looking to prepare your system for the seasons ahead, explore how our experts can help with AC installation in Saskatoon to ensure reliable and efficient cooling when you need it most. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.