Do you really need your AC inspected regularly? (Spoiler: YES & OOPS.)

May 4

May 4 Do you really need your AC inspected regularly? (Spoiler: YES & OOPS.)

For the last ten years, my air conditioner has simply run when it should and I didn’t give it a second thought. I would sad-emoji posts by friends bemoaning on Facebook that their air conditioners had broken on the hottest days, but not once did it make me wonder why that happens. Then a few weeks ago, Chris and Alison from Air Excellence got in touch to see if I’d be interested in getting AC maintenance. I asked them, “do I really need my AC inspected?” And y’all, the answer is part of my ongoing Adulting 101 journey. Because yes, apparently regular servicing is pretty darn important and I’m lucky to not be out thousands of dollars in replacement costs by now. Are you in the same boat? This post is for you! We’ll talk about why servicing is important, what it entails, and I’ll introduce you to Saskatoon locals Chris and Alison Danylchuk, owners of Air Excellence. They’re very likeable. Read on!

Looking to book AC Maintenance? Use code SNEAKS10 for $10 off!

First, the benefits of air conditioning maintenance:

1. It increases your unit’s efficiency, which lowers your monthly bill.

2. It helps prevent breakdowns during the hot summer months.

3. Your AC system will have a longer lifespan.

4. It will increase system performance, giving you better air quality.

5. It eliminates any harmful refrigerant leaks into the environment.

6. Gives you peace of mind.

A common issue on a maintenance call is that, like mine was, most ACs are dirty. That can cause it to work harder, decrease the life span, or just stop working entirely. And nobody likes when their AC stops working when its 30+ out! Just like you go to the doctor for a check-up or take your car in for an oil change, it makes sense to care for things while they’re in good repair rather than wait for a crisis and be stuck with real damage.

I shadowed Chris during my house call and couldn’t believe how much he covered, both at the furnace and at my AC unit. Obviously, I had to ask for a checklist so I could share with you. Here’s what you can expect from your Air Excellence air conditioning service visit:

• Change/clean air filter

• Inspect and clean evaporator and condenser coils

• Inspect drain line and pan for build up

• Check the blower and condenser fan

• Inspect humidifier and adjust damper

• Inspect for loose wires and corroded terminals

• Clean dust out of electrical enclosure area

• Inspect contactor and test

• Test the thermostat fan control

• Test and calibrate thermostat temperature

• Inspect ductwork furnace connections for mold, mildew, and any air leaks

Now Air Excellence is, pardon the pun, pretty fresh! But in talking with Chris, I learned it’s an industry he’s worked in for years, servicing furnaces, water heaters, garage heaters, boilers, filtration systems, HVAC, exhaust fans, refrigeration units, humidifiers and dehumidifiers… everything they now offer at Air Excellence. I was curious, what made them decide to break out and do it on their own? Says Chris, “We’ve talked and dreamed about starting our own business for years! Alison’s parents were business owners so growing up she saw the hard work and dedication it takes to run a successful business.” She’d worked at their business for 7 years as a Financial Controller and learned a lot about the ins and outs of owing a business, inspiring Alison to want to start a company.

Chris, on the other hand, has been a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic for almost 10 years but last year, he took an entrepreneur course with Ideas Inc. to learn more about the business side of things. With Alison not returning to work after her second maternity leave, she says “Our life was at a point where we decided to take the leap of faith and start Air Excellence.”

I follow Air Excellence on Instagram and would have never known their business is young! I asked, “how has it been going?” And the answer is one that should buoy potential entrepreneurs who are well-prepared: “In the beginning it was definitely scary, wondering did we make the right decision and losing sleep at night. But in the new year, things really picked up and we’ve been busy!” Air Excellence recently hired their first employee, Kyle and he’s been doing great. They emphasize, “We are truly appreciative of all the support we’ve received in the first few months and continue to receive!”

air excellence instagram post — Alison and Chris have fun on their Instagram page. Click through the image to follow them!

Now that you’ve been educated on the technical and business side of Air Excellence, let’s end with the cutest fact: Alison and Chris were high school sweethearts here in Saskatoon! I asked them how they’ll be enjoying the hot days ahead. “We spend a lot of time at Alison’s family cabin in the summer and those are some of our favorite memories. Just anchoring the pontoon boat to swim, BBQ, and relaxing in the sun with family!” Exactly the kind of day where it feels best to come into an air conditioned house afterward. Best make sure yours is in working order for that moment and give Air Excellent a shout to book your tune-up ;)