Why Summer Heat Puts Extra Strain on Your AC

Summer is just around the corner, and so is the hot and humid weather. Most AC systems are designed to provide comfortable cooling up to 95 degrees. With temperatures in our area regularly reaching over 100 degrees last summer, your system needs as much help as it can get to provide cooling comfort for your family this summer. To help you prepare and keep your energy bills as low as possible, here are some helpful hints to maximize your AC’s efficiency.

Simple Ways to Maximize AC Efficiency

• Don’t Touch the Thermostat: While it may seem counterintuitive, set your AC to the highest temperature that is comfortable and leave it alone. Blasting your AC for short periods of time, then turning it off, actually uses more energy and puts a higher strain on your system than allowing it to automatically function based on the set room temperature.

• Have Your System Serviced: A full cleaning for the cooling season will ensure that your system operates at peak efficiency. Dirty filters and dusty coils impede airflow and make it harder for the heat exchanger to work efficiently. Haldeman Mechanical can provide a comprehensive inspection and cleaning of your system to ensure cold air all summer long.

• Reduce Heat from Appliances, Cleaning, and Cooking: Household items such as your stove, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner, oven, and dryer generate heat that can cause additional strain on your AC. To reduce that impact, only utilize these items in the early morning or evening when the outdoor air temperature is cooler. Also, make use of your microwave and outdoor grill for cooking when possible.

• Use Draft Stoppers: Most of us think of draft stoppers as something that only gets used in the winter to keep cold air from coming in underneath external and attic doors. But those same draft stoppers can be used to keep hot air out during the summer months.

• Close the Shades, Blinds, or Drapes During the Day: Before the sun begins to heat up your house in the morning, take the time to close your shades, blinds, or drapes. This helps prevent heat buildup in your home. If you are in the market to replace your window coverings, try a lighter color that better reflects the sun.

• Remove Debris Around Your Condenser: If you have shrubs or small trees near your condenser, be sure to trim them back prior to the start of the cooling season. Also, remove any leaves, branches, or other yard debris. Keeping the area around your condenser clear will allow appropriate airflow and maximize efficiency.

Ready to schedule your AC service to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort this summer?

Contact us at 717-665-6910 or via email at info@haldemanmechanical.com.