Your air conditioner is a lifesaver on a hot summer day. When the hot weather arrives in York, PA, nothing feels as nice as a pleasantly air-conditioned home. Unfortunately, running your AC in very high temperatures can have negative effects on your HVAC system. From energy inefficiency that runs up your power bills to wear and tear that causes malfunctions, operating your AC in extreme temperatures can cause expensive problems.
The problem is, sweltering heat is when most people really count on their air conditioner to stay comfortable. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help your cooling system perform under pressure. This blog will discuss ways high temperatures affect your AC and summer cooling tips to maintain comfort while avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on your AC.
Why Your AC May Not Keep Up with the Heat
When it's extremely hot outside, there's a huge difference between the intense heat outside and the comfortably chilled air you want in your home. Bridging the temperature gap requires a lot of effort from your cooling system, forcing it to operate nonstop to try to cool down your home.
How Extreme Heat Could Affect AC Performance
When your AC unit has to work extra hard in high heat it becomes less effective—which in turn increases your utility bills. Using your air conditioner in on hot days can put excessive strain on your AC, especially the compressor, possibly causing damage or for it to fail entirely. The stress from high temperatures also can cause wear and tear on other parts, leading to mechanical issues that require air conditioning repair.
Why It's So Important to Have the Right Size AC in Your Home
Lowering the chances of your AC breaking down in high heat starts with choosing a properly sized AC for your home. An air conditioner that's not powerful enough can work harder than necessary to cool your home even on a moderate summer day. Units that are too big consume more power and may struggle to dehumidify.
During air conditioning installation at Strine's, our trained AC installation experts thoroughly assess your home and your personal cooling needs to find the ideal AC for your home. Factors like your home's overall dimensions, room configuration and insulation levels are all evaluated to make sure your air conditioner has the capacity to maintain comfort.
Ways that AC Maintenance Helps Protect Your AC During Extreme Heat
One of the most effective strategies to increase air conditioning efficiency during heat waves is with routine air conditioning maintenance. During our seasonal AC maintenance visits, experienced cooling specialists inspect your system—checking things like internal components, electrical wiring and coolant amounts. They also enhance system performance by cleaning out buildup and debris and installing clean filters, reducing strain by allowing air to move freely through the system. The technicians at Strine's also check for visible damage or brewing problems to repair, which can help prevent avoidable breakdowns during extreme heat.
Residents can help safeguard their AC by doing basic AC system chores in hot weather. Activities such as checking and replacing dirty air filters and clearing debris from the outside unit go a long way in maintaining optimal performance.
Common Misunderstandings About Staying Cool in Extreme Temperatures
Several misconceptions exist about using your AC effectively in high temperatures. Here are three truths to the most common myths we hear about how to stay comfortable during a heatwave:
- Setting your thermostat extremely low does not speed up the cooling process. Your AC will cool your home at a steady pace no matter how low you set the temperature.
- Powering down your AC unit when you're not home does not save energy. Instead, it lets indoor temps rise and leave your system with a bigger job when you return and restart the system. It's better to dial the temp back a few degrees when you leave—but still keep the system on.
- Selecting a larger-than-needed AC unit for your home isn’t the most effective option. While bigger units have more power, they can finish cooling quickly and shut off too soon, causing inconsistent temperatures, moisture buildup and other problems. A unit that's appropriately sized cools your home better.
Strategies to Help Your Cooling System Handle Extreme Temperatures
There's a lot you can do to reduce the risk of an AC overload during heatwaves—while also enjoying a cool and comfortable home:
- Set your thermostat a few degrees higher and turn on fans to circulate air and make the room feel cooler
- Do simple AC upkeep in between professional HVAC maintenance visits like checking and replacing air filters, and cleaning outdoor unit coils
- Close blinds and curtains to reduce heat gain from sunlight
- Weatherproof windows and doors to minimize cool air from leaking out or hot air entering the home
- Don't run high-heat appliances such as ovens, stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers when there are high temps
Avoid AC Issues During Hot Weather with AC Maintenance from Strine's
Be sure your air conditioner is all set for the hot weather in York, PA, with AC maintenance from Strine's. Our crews will thoroughly inspect and clean your unit, making sure it’s operating at peak efficiency. Schedule your appointment by calling 717-864-4554 today!