Simple Ways to Save on Your AC Bills This Summer

Now that the summer heat is here, it's more important than any other time of year to make sure your air conditioning unit is working properly. Air conditioners can break down when it's least convenient, causing indoor temperatures to soar and your energy bills to rise.

Saskatoon's premier HVAC experts at Excelsior Mechanical Ltd. know that a little bit of maintenance and care goes a long way toward keeping you cool and your energy bills low. Check out these simple things you can do to save big on your AC bills this summer.

Seal off Any Gaps Around Your Doors and Windows

We've seen it before: an AC unit that is properly installed is still working overtime because of open gaps around doors and windows. Keep indoor temperatures low and energy efficiency high by sealing gaps that form behind your AC unit, windows and doors.

Gaps that remain open around doors near your AC unit can make it difficult for your system to circulate air and draw it in and out through its vents and registers. Maintain proper airflow and ventilation by always keeping nearby gaps sealed.

Keep Your Ceiling Fans on

The humble ceiling fan is an often overlooked necessity for staying cool in high heat. Switch on your fan to use a lot less energy compared to cooling down with your AC unit. Ceiling fans are often more than strong enough to keep you comfortable without changing your AC unit’s settings.

If you want to kick things up a notch, consider getting a smart fan that comes with its own app that lets you schedule when you want to run your AC. A schedule for your fan can better optimize your energy efficiency in multiple rooms and floors in the home.

Clean/Replace Your Filters

Your AC unit is only as reliable as its air filters are clean. Dirty air filters can lead to poor ventilation and cause your home's temperature and energy costs to rise. At Excelsior Mechanical Ltd., we consider air filter cleaning and replacement core parts of our quality air conditioning repair and maintenance service. Regular cleaning takes a load off of your unit while keeping indoor air cool.

Turn Down Your AC When You Are Not Home

There’s often not much reason to keep your AC running if no one’s home. Try to stick to a schedule of running your AC only when you’re home or invest in a smart thermostat that can do the scheduling for you.

Blasting your AC when no one is home sends excess cool air outside through your windows and doors if they have seals. If you're running your unit while the house is empty, the only people you're cooling are probably your neighbors.

Invest in Black-Out Curtains

A consultation to determine components of your air conditioning installation isn’t complete without some recommendations for black-out curtains. Excelsior Mechanical Ltd. recommends multiple options for black-out curtains that drape over your windows for 24-7 heat reduction. These curtains can disperse heat from sunlight at affordable prices.

Save Money With Saskatoon's Finest HVAC Pros

The air conditioning and heating pros at Excelsior Mechanical Ltd. are committed to saving you money and delivering quality. With experience installing, maintaining and repairing AC systems in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan since 1993, we're confident that we can keep you cool this summer.

Whether you simply need help changing your filters or have a unit that's completely stopped working, our specialists are ready to help. Give us a call at 306-221-5481 or visit our contact page to receive a free consultation and quote.

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Troubleshooting Common Hot Water Tank Issues at Home

August 27, 2025

As the summer winds down in August and you prepare for the cooler months ahead in Saskatoon, Warman, and Martensville, ensuring your home’s hot water tank is operating efficiently is more important than ever. Hot water tanks are the backbone of comfortable living—providing reliable hot showers, clean dishes, and peace of mind. But what should you do when problems arise? Understanding common hot water tank issues—and how to troubleshoot them—can help you avoid cold showers, water damage, or even costly emergency repairs. In this guide, Excelsior Mechanical Ltd breaks down frequent problems, offers troubleshooting tips, and explains when to call your trusted local HVAC experts. No Hot Water? Start Here If you turn on the tap and find only cold water, the issue may be simpler than you think. For electric hot water tanks, begin by checking the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. For gas models, confirm that the pilot light is lit—if not, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe relighting. Sometimes, the thermostat may have been accidentally adjusted, so verify the temperature setting. If your tank is still not producing hot water after these basic checks, a faulty heating element, thermostat, or thermocouple could be the culprit. This is the point at which calling a professional for hot water tank repairs is the safest and most efficient route. Inconsistent or Lukewarm Water? Adjust and Inspect When your hot water is lukewarm instead of piping hot, mineral sediment buildup can be to blame—a common issue during and after the busy summer months. Sediment accumulates at the bottom of the tank and insulates water from the heating element, reducing efficiency. Draining and flushing your tank in August, before fall arrives, is a good maintenance practice. If you notice the problem persists, your tank’s dip tube (which brings cold water to the bottom of the tank to be heated) may be cracked or deteriorated, requiring professional replacement. Low Hot Water Pressure—Check the Valves and Pipes A sudden drop in hot water pressure throughout your home can be concerning. The most common causes in Saskatoon area homes are partially closed shut-off valves, clogged pipes, or mineral scale in the tank and plumbing system. Start by checking and fully opening the hot water shut-off valve near your tank. If that’s not the issue, cleaning aerators in your taps and showerheads can remove minor debris. For persistent pressure drops or signs of corrosion, it’s best to consult with your local plumbing experts at Excelsior Mechanical Ltd for a thorough inspection and solution. Strange Noises from the Hot Water Tank Popping or rumbling sounds coming from your hot water tank are signs that sediment has settled and is interacting with the tank’s heating elements. In August, as water usage shifts with the season, these noises often become more noticeable. Flushing the tank can resolve minor sediment buildups, but recurring noises could indicate that your tank is aging, or that an element is overheating—both of which require professional assessment. Leaking or Pooling Water—Act Immediately If you notice water pooling around your hot water tank, inspect connections, temperature-pressure relief valves, and pipes for visible signs of leakage. Occasionally, leaks stem from loose fittings and can be resolved by tightening connections. However, a leaking tank body—or any significant puddling—signals a serious problem and might require a tank replacement. Prompt action is crucial to prevent water damage and potential mold growth, especially as the weather begins to cool and windows close more frequently. When to Call Your Saskatoon Hot Water Tank Pros While simple issues like tripped breakers, pilot lights, or basic thermostat adjustments can be handled by homeowners, many hot water tank repairs and maintenance steps are best left to professionals. Licensed technicians from Excelsior Mechanical Ltd have the expertise and tools to safely flush tanks, replace faulty components, inspect for efficiency, and ensure compliance with all local codes and safety regulations. With decades of experience serving Saskatoon, Warman, and Martensville, our team is committed to delivering efficient, lasting, and reliable hot water solutions for your home. Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Fall—Book Your Hot Water Tank Service! August is the perfect time to troubleshoot, repair, or maintain your hot water tank before the busy fall season arrives. Don’t wait for a breakdown or cold water surprise— contact Excelsior Mechanical Ltd today for expert hot water tank inspections, maintenance, and repairs in Saskatoon, Warman, and Martensville. Visit www.excelsiormechanical.com or give us a call to schedule your appointment and keep your home comfortable, energy-efficient, and ready for the colder months ahead. Your neighbourhood experts are here to help—stay warm, stay comfortable, and trust Excelsior Mechanical with all your hot water needs!