Smart Strategies for a Breezy, Comfortable House

How to keep your home cool during a heat wave – and why regular maintenance matters.

As heat waves become more frequent and intense, keeping your home cool isn’t just a matter of comfort — it’s a necessity. High indoor temperatures can impact your health, strain your energy bills, and even damage your home. At Climate Works, we know that staying cool starts with being prepared. Here’s how you can beat the heat this summer — and why routine maintenance is your best defense.

START WITH YOUR HVAC SYSTEM:

Your air conditioner is your first line of defense during a heat wave. But if it’s not performing at its peak, you could be wasting energy — and money — without staying cool. Regular maintenance is key. Just like your car, your HVAC system needs tune-ups to run efficiently. Climate Works recommends scheduling a professional inspection at least once a year, ideally before the summer season hits.
Maintenance includes:

  • Cleaning or replacing air filters
  • Checking refrigerant levels
  • Inspecting and cleaning coils
  • Ensuring proper airflow
  • Calibrating the thermostat

A well-maintained unit can reduce energy use by up to 15%, helping you stay cool while lowering your electricity bill.

Creating the perfect indoor climate is more than just a job to us—it’s our passion!

SEAL LEAKS AND INSULATE:

Cool air escapes just as easily as warm air enters. Gaps in windows, doors, or poorly insulated attics can make your HVAC system work harder than it needs to. Regular maintenance visits often include checks for leaky ducts and drafty areas. Sealing these up not only keeps your home cooler but improves indoor air quality and system efficiency.

SWITCH TO HEAT-REDUCING HABITS:

Small changes can make a big difference:

  • Use appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and dryers in the evening
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which emit less heat
  • Use ceiling fans to circulate air — they help you feel cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees

USE SMART THERMOSTATS WISELY:

If you haven’t already upgraded to a smart thermostat, now’s the time. These devices learn your habits and adjust temperatures automatically to save energy. During a heat wave, setting your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re away from home can make a big difference. You can still return to a cool house — without overworking your system all day.

BLOCK OUT THE SUN:

Sunlight streaming through your windows can raise indoor temperatures significantly. Use blackout curtains, shades, or reflective window film to keep that heat out. Close blinds during peak sunlight hours, especially on south- and west-facing windows.
Pro tip: Trees and shrubs planted strategically around your home can provide natural shade and reduce heat gain long-term.

CONSIDER AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT UPGRADE:

If your system is more than 10–15 years old, it may be time to upgrade. Today’s high-efficiency air conditioners use significantly less energy while delivering better performance. At Climate Works, we offer energy-efficient solutions tailored to your home — and we’ll help you find the rebates and incentives that make upgrading more affordable.

Learn more about heat pumps here!

FINAL THOUGHTS: MAINTENANCE ISN’T A LUXURY – IT’S A LIFE LINE!

When the temperature spikes, your home should be your refuge. Routine HVAC maintenance doesn’t just protect your system — it protects your comfort, health, and wallet. Let Climate Works help you stay prepared. Contact us today to schedule your seasonal tune-up and make sure your air conditioning is ready for whatever summer throws your way. Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay smart.

If your air conditioner is showing signs of strain—poor airflow, odd noises, or inconsistent temperatures—don’t sweat it. Our certified HVAC technicians at Climate Works deliver prompt, professional cooling services across Ottawa and the surrounding region. From precision diagnostics and refrigerant top-ups to component repairs and full system replacements, we’ll restore your AC’s performance and your peace of mind.

If you run into any cooling-related issues, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs, give Climate Works a call. We’re here to keep you comfortable all season long.