8 Must-Know Summer HVAC Services to Keep Your Home Cool

Summer in Ontario can be unpredictable—one moment, it’s pleasantly warm, and the next, you’re sweating like you just ran a marathon. That’s why a well-functioning HVAC system isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The last thing you want is to discover your air conditioner isn’t up to the task in the middle of a heatwave. Scheduling a summer HVAC service ensures your cooling system runs smoothly when you need it most.

At LG Home Comfort, we understand how crucial efficient cooling is for homeowners across Ontario, whether you’re in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, Waterloo, or anywhere in between. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive HVAC summer maintenance guide to help you stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient this season.

1. Table of Contents

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   Replace Dirty Air Filters for Improved Airflow

One of the simplest yet most important HVAC summer tips is to replace or clean your HVAC air filter. Ontario summers bring dust, pollen, and pet dander, which can clog filters and reduce your system’s efficiency. A dirty filter forces your AC to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential system failure.

How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?

• Every 1–3 months during peak seasons
• Monthly if you have pets, allergies, or live in a high-dust area
• Consider HEPA filters for better indoor air quality

By replacing your air filter regularly, you boost efficiency, reduce strain on your AC, and improve indoor air quality, making your summer HVAC service more effective.

2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up with LG Home Comfort

Think of an HVAC summer tune-up like an oil change for your car—it keeps things running smoothly. Ontario summers bring humidity, which makes your air conditioner work extra hard to remove moisture from the air. A professional AC inspection helps identify potential problems before they turn into costly repairs.

What’s Included in an LG Home Comfort Tune-Up?

✔ Refrigerant check – Low refrigerant = poor cooling
✔ Coil cleaning – Dirty evaporator/condenser coils reduce efficiency
✔ Electrical inspections – Loose connections can lead to breakdowns
✔ Lubrication of moving parts – Prevents wear and tear
✔ Duct leak detection – Prevents air loss and wasted energy

Boooking a summer HVAC service with LG Home Comfort ensures your AC is in peak condition before the summer heat arrives.

3. Clear Debris from Your Outdoor AC Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit releases heat from your home, but it won’t work properly if it’s clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris. A blocked unit makes your AC work harder, consuming more energy and reducing cooling efficiency.

How to Maintain Your Outdoor Unit:

✔Turn off the power before cleaning
✔Remove leaves, dirt, and debris around the unit
✔Hose down the coils to clear dust buildup
✔Maintain at least two feet of clearance for airflow

This simple HVAC summer maintenance step helps your AC operate efficiently, keeping your home cooler with less energy use.

4. Seal Leaky Ducts to Improve Cooling Efficiency

Did you know leaky ductwork can waste up to 30% of cooled air? That means your air conditioner is working overtime, leading to higher energy bills and uneven cooling.

Signs Your Ducts Need Sealing:

• Some rooms feel warmer than others
• Unusually high energy bills
• Weak airflow from vents
• Excessive dust buildup

Sealing leaks with mastic sealant or foil-backed tape helps ensure cool air reaches every room efficiently. If your home has persistent cooling issues, an LG Home Comfort technician can inspect your air duct and repair leaks to boost system performance as part of a summer HVAC service.

5. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat to Cut Energy Costs

Still using a manual thermostat? It’s time for an upgrade. Smart thermostats like Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell help you save on energy bills by learning your schedule and optimizing cooling times.

Benefits of a Smart Thermostat:

✔Can reduce cooling costs by up to 15%
✔Remote control via smartphone apps
✔Automatic scheduling based on daily routines
✔Works with Ontario’s time-of-use hydro rates

By programming your AC to run efficiently during non-peak hours, you can avoid unnecessary energy spikes and keep your home cooler for less, enhancing your summer HVAC maintenance routine.

6. Check Your Home’s Insulation to Keep Cool Air In

Even with a high-efficiency AC, poor insulation can let the cool air escape, forcing your HVAC system to overwork.

Key Areas to Insulate:

• Attic insulation – Hot air rises, making attic insulation crucial
• Windows & doors – Use weather stripping or caulking
• Basements & crawl spaces – Insulating these areas regulates indoor temperatures

Proper insulation keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing overall HVAC strain and energy bills. Pre-summer HVAC service can help identify insulation gaps.

7. Keep Indoor Vents Unblocked for Even Cooling

Your HVAC system relies on balanced airflow. Blocked vents or registers can disrupt cooling efficiency and increase energy use.

Quick Vent Maintenance Tips:

✔ Keep vents open, even in unused rooms
✔ Vacuum vents to remove dust buildup
✔ Use vent deflectors to direct airflow efficiently

Unobstructed vents help your AC distribute cool air evenly throughout your home as part of HVAC summer maintenance.

8. Test Your AC Before the First Heatwave

Don’t wait until it’s 30°C outside to find out your air conditioner isn’t working. Testing your HVAC system early prevents last-minute emergency repairs.

How to Test Your AC:

1. Set the thermostat to “cool” mode and lower the temperature
2. Check vents for consistent cold airflow
3. Listen for unusual noises (rattling, buzzing, or hissing)
4. Ensure the outdoor unit is running smoothly

If you notice any cooling issues, call LG Home Comfort for a fast, reliable summer HVAC service.

Read More: AC Repair or Upgrade? Smart Ways to Save Your Money

Final Thoughts: Stay Cool with LG Home Comfort 

Getting your HVAC system summer-ready is essential for staying comfortable, saving energy, and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. By following these HVAC summer tips, you can enjoy a cool home all season long.

Need professional summer HVAC service or AC maintenance in Ontario? LG Home Comfort has you covered. Book a service today and ensure your air conditioner is in top shape before summer hits!

Beat the heat with LG Home Comfort—Ontario’s trusted HVAC experts!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I replace my HVAC air filter in summer?

Every 1-3 months, or monthly if you have pets, allergies, or live in a high-dust area.

2. When should I schedule an HVAC tune-up?

The best time is April-May, before summer’s peak heatwaves.

3. Why is my AC running but not cooling my home?

Common causes include dirty air filters, low refrigerant, leaky ducts, or a faulty thermostat.

4. How can I lower my AC costs during an Ontario summer?

Use a smart thermostat, close blinds, seal air leaks, and schedule routine maintenance.

5. How do I know if my ductwork needs repair?

Look for uneven cooling, weak airflow, high energy bills, or excess dust buildup.

6. Should I cover my outdoor AC unit when not in use?

Cover it in winter, but never fully cover it in summer—proper airflow is crucial.