Did you know that your HVAC system can lose efficiency during Arizona’s blistering summers if not properly maintained? With Mesa’s average daytime temperature soaring to 104.6 degrees Fahrenheit in July, having a reliable cooling system isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
By following a few expert tips, you can ensure your HVAC system isn’t just working but working efficiently. This means keeping your cooling costs down and your comfort up. In this article, we’ll explore essential summer HVAC tips to keep your family cool and comfortable, including:
- Schedule an AC tune-up
- Replace your air filters regularly
- Clear debris from your outdoor unit(s)
- Utilize ceiling fans to enhance airflow
- Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat
- Seal leaks in ductwork and windows
- Keep curtains and blinds closed during peak sun hours
Join us as we dive into these strategies to beat the heat, protect your equipment, and save money this summer.
Sign Up for Rusty’s VIP Maintenance Plan Today
Don’t let high temperatures give you the blues. Rusty’s VIP maintenance plan comes with one free cooling safety inspection and tune-up per year, plus condenser coil cleaning, 10% off repairs, and 50% off trip charges for the duration of your membership. Call (480) 631-4244 for reliable service and trustworthy advice.
Schedule an AC Tune-Up
Seasonal AC tune-ups are essential for keeping your cooling system running efficiently. Although it’s best to schedule a tune-up each spring, it’s better to do it late than not at all. With regular tune-ups, you can reduce energy usage, extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, and prevent costly breakdowns.
Replace Your Air Filters Regularly
Every cooling system has a filter designed to prevent dust, pet hair, pollen, and other debris from building up on coils and other components. If you don’t change your air filter regularly, your AC unit must work harder to cool the air, leading to higher energy bills.
Additionally, it’s important to change air filters regularly during Arizona’s monsoon season. Heavy winds and rain kick up all kinds of dust and dirt, making filter clogs more likely.
Clear Debris from Your Outdoor Unit(s)
Your outdoor AC unit has fins, coils, and other parts that don’t work as well if they’re covered with dirt and debris. If you want to stay cool during the summer, clean your outdoor units regularly. Look for twigs, grass, dirt, dust, and other substances that could prevent system components from working efficiently.
Utilize Ceiling Fans to Enhance Airflow
No matter how often you run your AC system, you can still benefit from using ceiling fans to enhance airflow. A ceiling fan allows air to circulate, making each room feel less “stale.” If you’re not sure whether to repair or replace your AC system, ceiling fans can help maintain a comfortable temperature until you make a decision.
Consider Upgrading to a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to create heating and cooling schedules, reducing the amount of energy used by your HVAC system. For example, if you work from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can program your cooling system to kick on at 4:45 p.m. Your house will be nice and cool by the time you get home, without the AC running all day while no one is there. On weekends, you can create a different schedule to accommodate your family’s habits.
If your schedule changes, you can adjust your thermostat accordingly. For example, if you have federal holidays off from work, you can create a different cooling schedule for Labor Day.
Seal Leaks in Ductwork and Windows
Leaky ducts allow cool air to escape from your AC system, leading to higher energy bills and lower levels of summer comfort. If you haven’t had a tune-up lately, seal all duct leaks before you turn on your AC.
It’s also helpful to replace the seals around your windows, as cracked seals allow cool air and moisture to escape. Seals are wear-and-tear items, so it’s normal for them to break down over time.
Keep Curtains and Blinds Closed During Peak Sun Hours
One of the best HVAC tips for summer is to keep curtains and blinds closed during peak sun hours. The sun produces thermal energy, so allowing sunlight to flood into bedrooms and other parts of your home can cause things to heat up significantly.
If you keep your curtains and blinds closed during peak sun hours, you can reduce the amount of thermal energy in your living spaces. As a result, your AC system won’t have to work as hard to keep things cool.
Schedule Your AC Tune-Up Today
At Rusty’s, we get the job done right the first time. Our technicians always go the extra mile for customers, ensuring you can enjoy ice-cold air all summer long. Call (480) 631-4244 to schedule an AC tune-up before it gets even hotter.
