How Can I Help My AC Keep My Home Cool During a Heat Wave?
When the Tennessee summer heat hits, your air conditioner isn’t just keeping you comfy; it’s working overtime to protect your home and health. But when temperatures soar into triple digits, even the most reliable systems can struggle. That’s why it’s important to make sure your AC is running as efficiently and effectively as possible.
But what can you do as a homeowner to make sure your home’s air conditioning system keeps working for you, no matter how hot it gets outside? In this article we’ll explain some of the steps you can take to maximize your home’s cooling system, and how Standard Air Conditioning Co. can help. Keep reading to learn more!
8 Smart Ways to Keep Your AC in Top Shape This Summer
Whether you’re prepping for a heat wave or just trying to keep those energy bills in check, here are eight simple strategies that can make a big difference:
1. Be Smart with Your Thermostat: Set your thermostat between 75–78°F when you’re home and dial it up a few degrees when you’re out. Contrary to popular belief, setting it lower doesn’t cool things faster; it just makes your system work harder.
2. Start Cooling Early: Don’t wait for your house to get hot! Start cooling in the morning when outdoor temps are lower. This helps your AC keep up once the afternoon sun kicks in.
3. Clean Filters, Clear Vents: A clogged air filter can choke your system. Check filters every few weeks during peak season and replace or clean as needed. And don’t forget to clear furniture, rugs, or dust from your vents.
4. Block the Blaze: Sunlight streaming through your windows can quickly heat up your home. Draw curtains or blinds during the day, especially on sun-facing sides of your house. Reflective film or thermal curtains on windows that get a lot of sunlight can be especially helpful.
5. Seal the Deal: Air leaks around doors and windows can let cool air slip right out. A little weather stripping or caulk can go a long way toward keeping air conditioning indoors where it belongs!
6. Pause the Heat-Producing Chores: Appliances like ovens, dryers, and even dishwashers can add unnecessary heat to your home. Shift those tasks to the cooler evening hours, or embrace the excuse to order takeout (pizza, anyone?)
7. Use Fans to Your Advantage: Ceiling and box fans help distribute cool air, making rooms feel more comfortable without cranking the AC lower. Just remember, fans help cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you’re not around.
8. Don’t Skip Seasonal Maintenance: The best way to avoid surprise breakdowns? Schedule regular maintenance with a trusted HVAC professional. A quick check-up can spot small issues before they become big problems.
Standard can help you stay cool all summer long.
Standard Air Conditioning Co. is ready to help you and your family enjoy cool comfort all summer long, no matter how high the temperatures soar. Whether you need air conditioning maintenance, repair, or installation, we’re ready to assist you. Just give us a call and we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment with you!
