As summer approaches, homeowners in Durham Region should prepare their HVAC systems for the season’s demands. With forecasts indicating warmer-than-average temperatures and increased humidity, ensuring your home’s comfort and energy efficiency will make staying cool all the more smoother.
Here’s what you should do (or better yet, have the team at Advantage Airtech ClimateCare take care of it for you) and why it’s important.
What to Expect from Summer Weather in Durham Region
Durham Region experiences warm and humid summers, with average high temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) in June and July. Humidity levels can make conditions feel even warmer, increasing the strain on air conditioning systems. Additionally, occasional thunderstorms and high pollen counts can impact indoor air quality.
Essential HVAC Maintenance Tasks for Summer 2025
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and your home comfortable, consider the following maintenance tasks:
1. Clean/Replace Air Filters
Dirty furnace filters restrict airflow, reducing system efficiency and indoor air quality. Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak usage periods. Now’s a good time to swap out that old filter for a new one; even during the summer months, your furnace continues to work with your AC to circulate cool air throughout your home.
2. Inspect and Clean Condenser and Evaporator Coils
Over time, coils can accumulate dirt and debris, hindering heat exchange. Clean coils or hire a professional service to maintain optimal cooling performance.
3. Clear Debris Around Outdoor AC Units
Even during the winter months, grass and weeds keep on growing (just at a much slower rate). If that growth is encroaching on your air conditioner, it could negatively impact its air flow. That makes it less effective and more expensive to operate.
A good rule of thumb to follow is to keep any grass and plant growth 2’ away from your AC.
One more thing: If you didn’t cover your AC in a tarp for winter, you should get that professionally cleaned. Otherwise, things like leaves, branches, and twigs can interfere with – or even break – the fan that’s inside.
4. Test Your Thermostat
Verify that your thermostat is accurately reading temperatures and communicating with your HVAC system. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you want the best efficiency this summer.
5. Test Your CO Alarm
This spring, make sure to test the batteries in your carbon monoxide alarm. Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds—typically a series of beeps. If it doesn’t activate, replace the batteries and test again. Should the alarm still remain silent, it’s time to replace the unit. Remember, CO detectors generally have a lifespan of 5–7 years, so check the manufacture date and replace them as needed.
Should you notice any dust inside your CO alarm, grab a can of compressed air to blow it away. You want all the internal mechanisms to be free of debris.
While you’re at it, you should also do the same for your smoke/fire alarms too.
6. Schedule Professional Maintenance
An annual professional tune-up can identify potential issues before they become major problems. We recommend servicing your AC at least once per year as well as your furnace. Bundling this service in the spring will likely yield the best value!
2025 HVAC Maintenance Considerations
With the anticipated warmer summer, you want to make sure your HVAC system is prepared for hot, humid weather. Regular maintenance not only improves comfort but also extends the lifespan of your system and reduces energy costs. Additionally, consider indoor air quality solutions, such as air purifiers or upgraded filtration systems, to combat increased pollen and humidity levels.
Also, if you aren’t up to speed with the latest technology, it’s a good idea to check out what’s new in 2025 in terms of smart home gadgets such as smart thermostats and efficient appliances. With the right choices, you can end up saving more on bills down the road if you invest now.
Book a Home Comfort Check-Up With Advantage Airtech ClimateCare
Advantage Airtech ClimateCare offers comprehensive HVAC maintenance services tailored to Durham Region’s unique climate challenges. Our expert technicians are ready to optimize your system for peak performance.
Contact us today to schedule your summer HVAC maintenance and download our HVAC Maintenance Checklist below to keep your home cool and efficient all season long.