As the season shifts, it’s important for home and business owners to prepare their living and working space for warmer temperatures. Before switching your thermostat from heat to cool,the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) has a few suggestions to optimize the safety and efficiency of your HVAC system.

Replace your filters – To optimize the efficiency of your air conditioning unit, ensure you replace your home’s HVAC unit filter on a regular basis (for frequency, check the manufacturer’s recommendations or ask your service contractor). Dirty filters block impede airflow and can reduce the efficiency of your system, causing it to work in overdrive.

Check your control centre – Take some time to get to know your thermostat. Many Canadians benefit from controls within the thermostat that allow them to automate their temperature based on time-of-day and day of the week. Run this cycle on ‘cool’ a few times in advance of the hot weather to ensure its functionality, and let your contractor know if you experience any issues.

Schedule routine maintenance using a qualified professional – Find a qualified contractor and think ahead. During each visit, take a moment to schedule your next visit for six months from that date. By engaging a trained technician on a routine basis, you’ll safeguard your HVAC investment by identifying any issues early and keeping your system problem-free.

Homeowners searching for qualified contractors in their area can visit www.hrai.ca or call toll-free at 1-877-467-HRA.