Spike in demand for local AC repairs
Posted Aug 25, 2021 04:35:28 PM.
Southern Ontario is in the midst of a heat wave and the temperatures have led to a spike in demand for those in the air conditioning business.
Krista Dirksen is a sales coordinator at Aire One Heating and Cooling in Kitchener.
“Our phones have been pretty much [ringing] off the hook, we've got everybody working overtime. It's really at this point a safety concern, so we are making sure that we get everybody serviced pretty much same-day.”
Dirksen said the pandemic has created some additional challenges.
“We've had a bit of difficulty with COVID, and lack of parts. We've pulled off some miracles for sure to get people comfortable.”
Dirksen said the majority of the calls have been for service, as many have been running air conditioners nonstop this week.
She had some advice for homeowners who might be noticing issues.
“Always changing your furnace filter, that's the first thing. A lot of people don't really think of their furnace when they think of air conditioning, but the air does get blown around with the furnace, so always check your furnace filter,” said Dirksen. “The AC unit that's outside – make sure that's always clear of debris. People like to hide them with some greenery and stuff, but you have to leave enough room for that coil outside to breathe as well.”
Dirksen said you should also check the batteries in your thermostat and if you're still having problems, call professionals for help.
Despite the heat wave, Dirksen said there has been no local shortage of air conditioning units but there has been a steady demand.
“Indoor air quality and being comfortable in your home right now is more important than it's ever been because people are working from home. This summer and last summer, we've definitely seen a spike in people who didn't have air conditioning before wanting it now. They used to be able to go to their air conditioned offices and now they can't.”
Dirksen added preventative maintenance is key to help avoid a big AC breakdown and expand your unit's lifespan.
