If your air conditioner isn’t cooling as well as it used to, dirty condenser coils might be the reason. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we often find that cleaning the AC’s outside unit is one of the easiest ways to improve performance and save on energy bills. What Are Condenser Coils? Your air conditioner’s condenser coils are found in the outdoor unit. These coils release heat collected from your home into the outside air. But when they get covered in dust, leaves, or grass clippings, they can’t do their job properly. Why Clean Coils Matter in Summer Dirty coils force your system to work harder, which: Lowers cooling efficiency Raises your energy bills Increases wear and tear Can lead to early system failure If you want your Orillia AC system to last and stay energy-efficient, cleaning the coils each summer is a must. How to Clean Your AC’s Condenser Coils (Safely) 1. Turn Off Power Always turn off the AC system at the breaker box for safety. 2. Clear Debris Around the Unit Remove sticks, leaves, weeds, and anything blocking airflow around the outdoor unit. 3. Remove the Top Grille (Optional) If you feel comfortable, unscrew the top and gently lift the fan out of the way—being careful not to tug on wires. 4. Use a Garden Hose Spray the coils from the inside out with a garden hose (not pressure washer!). Gently rinse away dirt, avoiding damage to the fins. 5. Reassemble and Turn It On Once everything is dry, reattach the fan cover and turn the power back on. Watch: How to Clean Your AC Condenser ("H o w to Clean Your Air Conditioner Condenser Unit" – Word of Advice TV)

Hot summer days in Orillia mean your air conditioner is working overtime. But are you using your HVAC system the right way? At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we often see common mistakes that can raise your energy bills or even damage your system. Here are the top 5 summer HVAC mistakes to avoid —and how to fix them! ❌ Mistake #1: Not Changing Your Air Filter A clogged air filter can block airflow, making your system work harder and wear out faster. It also spreads dust and allergens in your home. ✅ Fix: Change your filter every 1 to 2 months during summer. If you have pets or allergies, check it more often. ❌ Mistake #2: Closing Air Vents in Unused Rooms Many people think closing vents saves money. But it actually throws off the balance of your system and can increase pressure, which leads to leaks or breakdowns. ✅ Fix: Keep all vents open and clear. Let air flow evenly through your home. ❌ Mistake #3: Ignoring Thermostat Settings Setting your thermostat too low or constantly adjusting it can waste energy and confuse your system. ✅ Fix: Set it between 24°C–26°C (75°F–78°F) when you're home, and higher when you're away. A programmable or smart thermostat is a great way to save money. ❌ Mistake #4: Skipping Summer HVAC Maintenance Without regular maintenance, small problems go unnoticed—until your system breaks down on the hottest day of the year. ✅ Fix: Book a summer HVAC tune-up in Orillia with Mr. Heat Furnace Repair. We’ll check for issues and keep your AC running efficiently. ❌ Mistake #5: Blocking the Outdoor AC Unit Grass, leaves, and even patio furniture can block the outdoor unit, which needs good airflow to work properly. ✅ Fix: Keep at least 2 feet of clear space around your outdoor unit. Hose it down gently to remove dirt and dust. Watch: Common Summer HVAC Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 📺 Watch on YouTube ("5 BIGGEST Summer HVAC Mistakes Homeowners Don't Know!" – Fox Family Heating and Air)