Preparing Your AC for Seasonal Changes: A Comprehensive Guide

Southern Ontario doesn’t give your air conditioner any breaks. With increasingly erratic patterns, such as this May’s record cold following last summer’s brutal heatwaves, your air conditioning system works harder than ever to keep up. 

Seasonal changes put extra strain on your unit, and without regular maintenance, you’re risking:

• breakdowns and system malfunctions
• shorter equipment lifespan
• spiking energy costs
• uncomfortable indoor temperatures 

When working with a central air conditioner or a mini-split with outdoor units, staying ahead of the weather is even more crucial. Preparing your AC for seasonal changes (not just summer or winter!) is the best way to save yourself thousands in repair or replacement costs while ensuring reliable comfort year-round.

Let’s break down exactly what to do (and when) so you can stay cool, save energy, and avoid emergency calls!

Is Seasonal HVAC Maintenance Necessary?

Yes, seasonal HVAC maintenance is necessary. While preparing your AC for seasonal changes sounds overkill, you’ll soon realize that an annual AC maintenance won’t cut it in Southern Ontario. 

You’ll need at least two service visits: one AC service before summer, and one before winter. Summer heatwaves and winter freeze-thaw cycles require heating and cooling systems to work harder and longer, making regular AC maintenance a smart move in anticipation.

That said, spring and fall also pose unique challenges to your HVAC system. While not as extreme as summer heat or winter cold, these seasons bring their issues, like:

• pollen buildup
• fluctuating weather conditions
• falling leaves and debris
• moisture from rain or melting snow
• wildlife nesting around outdoor equipment

Benefits of Seasonal AC Maintenance

In the face of these seasonal changes, doing regular seasonal HVAC maintenance brings the following advantages:

• Helps your air conditioning system adapt to seasonal changes (i.e., allergens and humidity in spring, leaves in fall)
• Ensures smooth transitions between seasons
• Catches issues like refrigerant leaks and faulty electrical connections before they get worse
• Maintains peak performance (and proper airflow) during temperature swings
• Prevents ice damage and freeze-thaw expansion
• Keeps the manufacturer’s warranty requirements 
• Extends the AC system’s lifespan

Seasonal AC Maintenance Guide

Different seasons create different challenges for your HVAC system. Here are some air conditioner maintenance tips for each season:

Spring AC Maintenance

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Spring is the perfect time for your air conditioner to undergo a revival. As the weather warms up, your air conditioner transitions from months of inactivity to daily use. Getting AC service before summer fully arrives keeps it clean, efficient, and fully prepared for the heavy lifting ahead. 

When preparing your AC for seasonal changes in spring, watch out for:

• Dust, debris, and moisture buildup from winter
• Clogged or dirty air filters
• Wear or damage from freezing temperatures
• Pollen and allergens entering your system
• Proper thermostat settings and calibration
• Potential refrigerant or water leaks

Summer AC Maintenance

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Summer means nonstop air conditioner action. With soaring temperatures and constant use, your AC system works overtime to keep your home cool and comfortable. When things go haywire now, you’re in for a world of discomfort and costly (often urgent) repairs. 

To keep your AC system running smoothly all summer long, watch out for:

• Strange noises or signs it’s working too hard
• Weak cooling or uneven airflow
• Dust and pollen clogging up the condenser coils
• Equipment overheating
• Changes in energy consumption 

Pro Tip: If you’ve called an HVAC technician for spring AC maintenance and everything is functioning correctly, you don’t need another professional tune-up until fall. But if you notice anything at all, don’t wait—setting time for a quick check up is less of an inconvenience than dealing with a sudden breakdown in the heat.

Fall AC Maintenance

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Fall in Southern Ontario is one of the best seasons for outdoor adventure: crisp air, colourful leaves, and perfect hiking weather. But for your HVAC system, it’s time to lay down the heavy cooling work and start gearing up for winter.

Proper fall AC maintenance is less about optimizing performance, but more about protecting your system from the coming cold. When preparing your AC for seasonal changes before winter sets in, your priority should be:

• Cleaning and protecting outdoor components
• Removing debris that can restrict airflow 
• Winterizing your system

Pro Tip: Schedule furnace or heat pump maintenance in the fall while you’re at it, so your heating system is ready to go before the first deep freeze hits. 

Winter AC Maintenance

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The cooling season is officially over, and your air conditioner finally gets a well-deserved break. But that doesn’t mean you can forget about it altogether. Like fall AC maintenance, winter is more about protection and prevention. 

One of the primary air conditioner maintenance tips we share with clients is to prevent dirt and moisture buildup at all costs. Snow, ice, and debris can settle into your outdoor unit, leading to corrosion, restricted airflow, and damage to internal components.

Pro Tip: Many air conditioner maintenance tips recommend using AC covers, but that’s often a bad idea. Covering your AC can trap moisture (especially in winter) and create the perfect environment for rust, mould, and pests. 

Air conditioners with outdoor units are generally built to withstand snow and harsh winter weather. Instead, keep the area around your unit clear and gently brush off snow or ice buildup as needed.

How Do I Know If My AC Needs Maintenance?

You can tell that your AC needs maintenance if you spot these signs:

Keep Your AC at Peak Performance All Year Long

Your air conditioner works hard to keep your home comfortable through every season, but without regular care, it can fail you when you need it most. Scheduling seasonal maintenance with reliable HVAC technicians like LG Home Comfort provides expert service, fast response times, and energy-efficient solutions tailored to your home.

Our AC maintenance plans include:

• 26-point AC Service (check-up for everything from the thermostat to the compressor)
• Deep Clean & Component Inspections
• Refrigerant Line Maintenance
• Electrical & Safety Checks

Our services are designed specifically for Southern Ontario weather conditions, ensuring peak performance, lower energy bills, and longer lifespans for your ACs. Don’t wait for a breakdown—start preparing your AC for seasonal changes now. 

Book your seasonal maintenance today and enjoy worry-free home comfort all year long! 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to prepare your HVAC system for seasonal changes?

Preparing your AC for seasonal changes is best done by HVAC professionals who have the necessary tools and expertise to identify and address issues. We recommend scheduling professional HVAC maintenance at least twice a year—ideally in spring and fall—to catch minor issues before they become costly repairs.

What to do before turning on AC for the year?

Before turning on the AC for the year, ensure that you clean and inspect both your indoor and outdoor units for dirt, debris, buildups, or other obstructions. For a safe and smooth start to the cooling season, follow a spring AC maintenance checklist or book a professional inspection.

How do I prepare my AC unit for summer?

To prepare your AC unit for summer, ensure it’s in optimal condition by getting a professional tune-up and maintenance. At home, you can start by cleaning or replacing filters, checking the outdoor unit for debris, and clearing any blockages around it. 

How long can an air conditioner sit without being used?

An air conditioner can sit unused for several months to a year, but only if properly prepared. Without winterization and regular maintenance, you risk the accumulation of dust, debris, mould, and moisture in as little as three to four months (even sooner in humid climates). 

If you left your AC unattended for an extended period, remember to have a professional inspect it before restarting. Electrical components, in particular, require safety testing to prevent shorts or failures when the system is turned back on.