When summer temperatures soar, your air conditioner becomes your home’s lifeline to comfort. But with the system working overtime during peak heat, it’s crucial to ensure your AC runs as efficiently as possible to maintain a cool, comfortable environment without breaking the bank.
Efficient operation not only keeps energy bills down but also helps extend the lifespan of your unit. Here are some essential tips on how to keep your AC running efficiently during peak summer heat.
1. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
One of the best ways to ensure efficient cooling is to have your AC system professionally inspected and tuned up at least once a year, ideally before the summer heat hits. A qualified HVAC technician will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, lubricate moving parts, inspect electrical components, and replace filters. This proactive approach prevents small issues from turning into costly breakdowns and helps your AC run at peak efficiency.
2. Change or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly
Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder to cool your home. During the summer months, it’s a good idea to check your air filters monthly and replace or clean them as needed. Clean filters improve airflow and indoor air quality, reduce energy consumption, and prevent undue wear on your system.
3. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear and Clean
Your outdoor condenser unit releases heat from inside your home. If it’s clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, it won’t be able to dissipate heat effectively, forcing your system to work harder. Regularly inspect the area around your outdoor unit, clearing any plants, grass clippings, or debris at least two feet away from the unit. You can also gently hose down the fins to remove built-up dirt—but be sure to turn off power before cleaning.
4. Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats
Programmable and smart thermostats help reduce unnecessary cooling by adjusting temperatures based on your schedule. Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re not home or overnight can lead to significant energy savings. Smart thermostats also allow remote control from your phone, so you can cool your home just before you return, maximizing comfort without wasting energy.
5. Seal and Insulate Your Home
Air leaks around doors, windows, and ductwork cause cooled air to escape, making your AC work harder to maintain your desired temperature. Sealing gaps with weather stripping or caulk and ensuring your home is well insulated will keep cool air inside and hot air out. Properly sealed ductwork also improves system efficiency by preventing air loss.
6. Limit Heat Gain Inside Your Home
Reduce internal heat sources by closing blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens or clothes dryers during peak afternoon hours. Ceiling fans can also help circulate air and create a cooling effect without lowering the thermostat.
7. Avoid Overworking Your AC
Set your thermostat to a comfortable but energy-conscious temperature, generally around 78°F when you’re home. Constantly lowering the temperature won’t cool your home faster but will increase energy usage. Trust your system to do its job efficiently at a reasonable setting.
Since 1971 customers have trusted Coventry & Gattis A/C, Inc. to keep their homes safe and comfortable. Contact us today!