Skip the trial and error–if the cooling setup in your side-by-side has started acting up, go straight to Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd.. Whether it’s sluggish airflow, strange smells, or just not cooling like it used to, these are early signs that the system needs professional inspection. Left unchecked, minor glitches can escalate into expensive part replacements, especially during Alberta’s hotter months when demand for repairs spikes and wait times stretch longer than expected.

I had a neighbour mention their off-road utility unit lost cabin temperature control during a long trail run west of Okotoks. Turned out, it was a cracked line and low refrigerant–easily preventable with a mid-season checkup. That’s the thing–people often delay maintenance on recreational or work machines, assuming they’re tougher than commuter vehicles. They’re not. In fact, the exposure to dust, vibration, and constant jostling often puts more stress on their internal components.

At this shop, they use diagnostic tools tailored for compact engine compartments and sealed environments. It’s not just about replacing filters or topping up refrigerant. Technicians will check seals, electronic sensors, and moisture traps–areas many general repair places miss. Plus, they’ll actually explain what’s happening instead of handing you a generic invoice. That transparency matters, especially when you’re depending on the vehicle for field work or long-distance outings.

And yeah, you might think it’s just a comfort issue. But consider what happens when defogging fails during a sudden rainstorm, or the cab overheats while hauling gear. It’s not just inconvenient–it can be risky. So if you’ve noticed anything off, even something small like inconsistent fan speeds, get it checked out. Better a quick visit now than a ruined weekend–or worse, a stalled workday when you’re out past Cochrane with no quick way back.

How to Diagnose Common Air Conditioning Issues in Your Can-Am Side-by-Side

Start by checking if the fan kicks in when the switch is flipped. If nothing happens–no sound, no air movement–then it’s likely a blown fuse or a dead relay. Those are easy enough to test with a multimeter. Pull the fuse, check continuity. No beep? Swap it.

If the blower runs but there’s no cool air, the next suspect is low refrigerant. That happens a lot, especially after a rough winter. You’ll need a pressure gauge to be sure. The low side should read around 30 to 40 psi when the unit is on. If it’s closer to zero, you’ve got a leak.

Leaks usually show up around connection points or the condenser. Use a UV dye kit–it’ll glow under a blacklight. I’ve seen leaks right at the Schrader valve, just a bit of dust stuck in the seal. Sometimes it’s something dumb like that.

If the pressure looks normal but the vents still blow warm, check the compressor clutch. With the engine running and the system switched on, that clutch should engage–visibly spin. If it doesn’t, it might be the clutch coil or a busted pressure switch not allowing it to activate.

Also, don’t rule out airflow obstructions. Rodents love to build nests in the ductwork, especially if it sat for a while. Pull the glove box and inspect behind it. I once found a chewed-up rag stuffed behind the evaporator. Smelled awful, too.

Last thing–listen. If there’s a clicking, rattling, or squealing noise when it’s running, that’s a red flag. Bearings in the blower motor or debris caught in the fan cage can sound like the whole thing’s falling apart, even if it’s just a loose screw.

None of this takes dealership-level tools, but some of it’s tedious. If it’s your first time cracking into the system, take it slow. Better to double-check than replace something that was fine all along.

Where to Find Reliable Replacement Parts for Can Am Defender AC Systems in Calgary

Start with Cactus RV and Auto in the southeast industrial area. They consistently stock compatible cooling components for utility vehicles, and their inventory isn’t just surface-level–compressors, evaporators, expansion valves, even wiring harnesses. You’ll want to call ahead, though. They sometimes sell out of the more niche items.

Next stop? Check Royal Distributing near Balzac. While it’s known more for power sports gear, they’ve recently expanded their parts section. It’s not always obvious online, but their staff knows what cross-references well with the more rugged off-road models. Ask for Terry if he’s there–he’s helped me track down obscure cabin blower assemblies more than once.

For anyone who prefers ordering, NAPA’s Calgary branches can usually bring in specific HVAC parts within 48 hours. Just make sure you’ve got the OEM part number handy. The website won’t always show the exact model application, so a quick call to double-check avoids wasted trips.

If you’re not having much luck locally, there’s Revco in Québec–they ship to Alberta, and their online catalogue actually breaks down by vehicle use type. Not always the cheapest, but they’ve pulled through when others couldn’t.

And honestly? If you’re unsure about compatibility or you’re dealing with a weird intermittent issue, skip the guesswork. Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd. has a parts desk with access to supplier networks that most DIYers don’t even know exist. Just something to keep in mind if time matters more than sourcing it yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide to Seasonal AC Maintenance for Your Side-by-Side Vehicle

Replace the cabin filter right at the start of the season. Don’t wait for dust buildup–swap it out before your vents start blowing stale, musty air. A clean filter makes a noticeable difference, especially on backcountry trails where airflow can already be inconsistent.

Inspect the condenser fins for debris and bent metal. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean them gently. Twigs, bugs, even fine gravel can wedge in, reducing performance more than you’d expect. If the fins are bent, a fin comb helps straighten them without much effort.

Check refrigerant levels. This step often gets skipped. But low refrigerant doesn’t just mean weaker cooling–it can actually damage the compressor over time. If you’re unsure about pressure readings, a service shop with proper gauges can check and top it up. Don’t guess here.

Test the blower motor speed settings. It’s surprising how often the lower speeds fail first and go unnoticed. If the air only blasts at high, there’s likely an issue with the resistor or wiring. That’s a quick fix, but better caught now than in the middle of July.

Listen for unusual sounds when the system’s running. Clicking, grinding, or whining? That’s not normal. Could be a failing bearing, loose housing, or just a misaligned panel. Better to deal with it in your garage than out in the woods with a screw rattling loose.

Clean the evaporator core if you’re comfortable disassembling panels. It’s tucked behind the dash, but accessible enough. A handheld vacuum or foaming coil cleaner works well. Skip this if it feels too invasive–just mention it during your next service.

Double-check the seals around vents and ducts. Cold air escaping behind panels or into the dash is wasted power. A bit of foam tape or silicone can seal minor gaps that, over time, really affect output. Plus, it reduces cabin dust.

Lastly, run the system at full blast for 10–15 minutes before your first big trip of the season. Let it cycle. Feel for weak spots. You’ll notice things at home that you’d miss on the trail–until it’s too late.

Contact “Calgary Air Heating and Cooling Ltd” For More Information:

Address

95 Beaconsfield Rise NW, Calgary, AB T3K 1X3

Phone

+1 403 720-0003

Hours of operation

Open 24 hours 7 days a week

Map