When the summer heat hits hard, it’s tempting to crank your air conditioner and let it run non-stop…not just to get your home nice and cool, but to keep it that way. But pushing your AC system too hard can lead to higher energy bills, faster wear and tear, and system breakdowns – even on the hottest days.
Here’s how to stay cool without overworking your AC system.
Use Fans to Circulate Cool Air
Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans don’t actually lower the temperature, but they help move cool air around and make your home feel several degrees cooler. In the summer, set your ceiling fan to spin counterclockwise so it pushes air down. This simple step can let you raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. And that will help reduce your utility costs.
Block Out the Sun
Direct sunlight streaming through your windows can quickly turn any room into an oven. To prevent that:
- Close window coverings during the hottest parts of the day.
- Consider installing blackout curtains or thermal drapes for even better insulation.
- For extra help, add outdoor awnings or shade sails to reduce sun exposure to your home.
By keeping sunlight out, you’ll keep indoor temperatures more stable and reduce the amount of work your AC must do.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats let you set higher temperatures when you’re away and automatically cool things down before you return home. Even a simple programmable thermostat can help prevent your system from running nonstop all day. What’s more, small changes – like setting your thermostat to 78°F instead of 72°F when you’re not home – can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill.
Avoid Heat-Generating Activities During the Day
Appliances like ovens, clothes dryers, and even dishwashers add extra heat to your home. Follow this friendly advice
- Cook meals early in the morning, use a microwave, or grill outdoors instead of turning on the oven when outdoor temperatures are at or near their peak.
- Run laundry and dishwashers early in the morning or during the evening hours when it’s noticeably cooler.
- Switch to LED bulbs, which produce less heat than incandescent lighting.
These small steps – especially in combination – can reduce indoor temperatures while and give your AC system a much-needed break.
AC Preventive Maintenance
Even the best air conditioners need extra help to deliver their full benefit. As such, here are a few ways to maximize AC system efficiency:
- Change or clean your air filters every 1–3 months.
- Keep outdoor units free from leaves, grass, and debris.
- Schedule a professional tune-up each year to check things like refrigerant levels, coils, and overall performance.
A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, uses less energy, and keeps your home cooler.
Stay Cool for Less
By combining these simple habits, you can stay comfortable all summer long without pushing your AC to its limit – or your energy bill through the roof. So, if it’s been a year or longer since your last AC tune-up and inspection, schedule one now with Messmer Mechanical. Your AC system – and your family – will thank you.