As the scorching summer heat continues in the Phoenix area, residents have become more dependent on their HVAC systems to keep them comfortable and safe. But the excessive heat warnings that we’ve seen in recent days can strain air conditioning systems. If left unchecked, an overworked AC can result in poor cooling efficiency, higher energy bills, and an inevitable system breakdown. But that’s no reason for you to break down, too! There are several things you can do at home to help reduce strain on your AC during the summer months.
5 Tips to Help You Reduce Strain on Your AC
1. Replace HVAC air filters once a month.
If you want your air conditioning system to work properly, you’ll need clean air filters. Air filters “catch” pollutants that are being circulated throughout your home and damaging your indoor air quality. Over time, air filters get clogged with dirt, debris, and other contaminants. These dirty air filters make ventilation difficult, forcing your AC to work harder to get to the desired temperature.
It’s a good idea to check and clean your air filters every month. Especially during the summer, replacing your air filters monthly can help reduce strain on an overworked AC. A clean air filter goes a long way toward improving your AC’s energy efficiency!
2. Check ductwork and insulation for leaks.
An efficient working HVAC system requires quality ductwork. There’s no point in having the crispest and coolest conditioned air in town if your air ducts aren’t sealed– all that cooling energy goes right out the window! Poorly sealed vents result in leaks, cracks, and loose ends in the ductwork, which cause your air conditioner to run less efficiently.
Check that your air ducts are sealed and all insulation is intact to ensure your system is cooling at maximum efficiency. Similar to your air filters, air ducts should also be protected from debris, pet dander, dust, and other irritants. Clean air vents and ductwork every five years to ensure good indoor air quality.
3. Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air.
Ceiling fans go hand-in-hand with your HVAC system. Turn on the ceiling fans in your home to promote better air circulation and create a cooling effect. Ceiling fans distribute the cooled air faster to reach the desired temperature even sooner. By keeping the treated air moving throughout your home, you can reduce the strain on your AC and use less energy.
For the most effective cooling and ventilation, keep all inside doors and vents open. Closing doors to unused rooms makes ventilation more difficult and can put a strain on your HVAC system over time.
4. Keep the AC running when you leave the house.
It might sound counterintuitive, but keeping the AC running when you leave the house is a great way to reduce strain on your HVAC system this summer. You may think that turning the air conditioning system off when no one is home will save a couple of bucks, but your good intentions are actually doing the opposite! Shutting down your AC will result in your system working overtime once it’s turned on again.
A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to regulate indoor temperature and monitor energy levels while you are away.
5. Sign up for a regular HVAC maintenance plan.
Regular system tune-ups will keep your air conditioner running at peak performance by recognizing and reducing external factors that may be straining your HVAC system. We recommend scheduling professional maintenance checks at the beginning of each season to avoid the summer emergency service rush.
Customers of Team Air-Zona’s AC maintenance plan are entitled to priority scheduling, free diagnostic with repair, discounts on AC system repairs and replacements, plus guaranteed AC emergency service. Schedule a service appointment today and ask how preventative maintenance can improve the performance of your air conditioning system.
Call the HVAC Experts For All AC Repairs and Replacements in Queen Creek, Chandler, and Gilbert
Do you know how to make the most of your HVAC system? By following our “Hot Weather Hacks,” you can reduce the strain on your air conditioner and stay cool all summer long! Remember, the quality of your air filters and ductwork should be checked once a month to ensure maximum cooling efficiency and safe indoor air quality.
If you suspect problems with your insulation or air conditioner, our HVAC experts can help determine whether a system repair or replacement is right for you. Call us to improve the performance and longevity of your AC today!
