10 AC Tips For A Heat Wave

As temperatures soar during extreme heat waves, your air conditioner becomes an essential tool for maintaining a comfortable and safe indoor environment. Proper care and maintenance of your AC unit not only ensure its efficiency but also extend its lifespan. Keep reading to learn more, or call Emerald Heating & Cooling to keep your air conditioner running smoothly during the hottest days.

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1. Regular Maintenance and Inspection

Regular AC maintenance is key to keeping your air conditioner in top shape. Schedule professional inspections at least once a year. During these check-ups, a technician will:

• Inspect the Unit: Checking for wear and tear ensures that small issues are identified and repaired before they become significant problems. This includes examining the condenser, evaporator coils, and all moving parts.
• Clean or Replace Air Filters: Clean air filters improve air quality and efficiency by preventing dust and debris from clogging the system. This can also help reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.
• Check the Thermostat Settings: Ensuring your thermostat is functioning correctly helps maintain a consistent temperature and can reduce energy costs. Programmable thermostats can be adjusted to optimize energy use when you’re away from home.
• Inspect the Condensate Drain: A clogged AC drain can cause water damage and increase humidity levels indoors. Keeping this drain clear prevents these issues and maintains the system’s efficiency.

Emerald Heating & Cooling is the number one company to call for professional AC repair and maintenance in Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding areas. Our expert technicians can help you keep your system running efficiently.

2. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Dirty air filters can significantly reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency. During extreme heat, it’s important to:

• Check Filters Monthly: Regular inspection of filters helps ensure they are not clogged with dust and debris, which can restrict airflow and cause the system to work harder.
• Replace Filters as Needed: Depending on the type of filter and your usage, you might need to replace them every one to three months. For homes with pets or allergy sufferers, more frequent replacements may be necessary.
• Clean Reusable Filters: If your unit uses reusable filters, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Typically, this involves washing with a mild detergent and allowing them to dry completely before reinstalling.

3. Manage Thermostat Settings

Using your thermostat wisely can make a big difference in both comfort and energy bills:

• Set the Thermostat to a Higher Temperature When Away: When you’re not at home, set the thermostat to a higher temperature. This prevents the AC from running unnecessarily and saves energy.
• Lower the Thermostat When Home: Adjust the temperature to a comfortable level when you’re at home. Using ceiling fans in conjunction with your AC can help you feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting.
• Consider a Programmable or Smart Thermostat: These devices allow you to set schedules for temperature adjustments based on when you’re typically home or away. Some smart thermostats can learn your preferences and make adjustments automatically.

By optimizing your thermostat settings, you can maintain a comfortable home environment without overworking your air conditioner.

4. Block Sunlight

Keeping the sun’s heat out of your home can help your air conditioner work more efficiently:

• Close Blinds, Curtains, or Shades: During the hottest parts of the day, keep window coverings closed to block direct sunlight, which can significantly heat up your home.
• Use Reflective Window Films: These films can reduce the amount of heat entering your home through windows, keeping your indoor spaces cooler.
• Install Awnings or Exterior Shades: Exterior solutions like awnings can block sunlight before it even reaches your windows, providing additional cooling benefits.

Reducing the heat gain from sunlight can lower the overall temperature inside your home, making it easier for your AC to maintain a comfortable environment.

5. Utilize Fans for Enhanced Airflow

Fans can assist your air conditioner by improving air circulation:

• Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans help distribute cool air more evenly throughout your home, making rooms feel cooler. Remember to set the fan to rotate counterclockwise during the summer to create a cooling breeze.
• Place Portable Fans Strategically: Position portable fans to direct cool air from your AC vents into other areas of the house or to boost airflow in rooms that are warmer than others.
• Utilize Exhaust Fans: Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove heat and humidity, reducing the load on your air conditioner.

By enhancing air circulation, fans can help your air conditioner cool your home more effectively and efficiently.

6. Stay Hydrated and Cool

Keeping yourself cool can reduce the load on your air conditioner:

• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps your body regulate its temperature more effectively, reducing the need for constant cooling.
• Take Cool Showers: A cool shower can quickly lower your body temperature, providing immediate relief from the heat.
• Use Cool Compresses: Applying cool compresses to pulse points, such as wrists and neck, can help cool you down.

By keeping yourself cool, you can reduce the demand on your air conditioner, making it easier to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

7. Limit Heat-Generating Activities

During extreme heat, try to minimize activities that generate additional heat indoors:

• Avoid Using Ovens or Stoves: Cooking appliances can add a lot of heat to your home. Opt for microwave cooking, slow cookers, or outdoor grilling instead.
• Use Heat-Generating Appliances During Cooler Times: If you must use appliances like dishwashers, washers, or dryers, try to run them during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
• Switch to LED Bulbs: Traditional incandescent bulbs generate more heat than LED bulbs. Switching to LEDs can reduce indoor heat and save on energy costs.

By limiting heat-generating activities, you can help keep your home cooler and reduce the workload on your air conditioner.

8. Seal Leaks and Improve Insulation

Prevent cool air from escaping by ensuring your home is well-sealed:

• Check for and Seal Any Leaks: Inspect doors and windows for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps. This prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.
• Improve Insulation: Adding insulation to your attic, walls, and floors can help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for constant cooling.
• Use Door Sweeps: Installing door sweeps on exterior doors can block drafts and keep cool air inside.

By sealing leaks and improving insulation, you can maintain a more consistent indoor temperature and reduce the strain on your air conditioner.

9. Create a Designated Cool Zone

Designate a specific area in your home as a cool zone where your family can gather during the hottest parts of the day:

• Use Fans and Portable AC Units: Enhance cooling in this area with additional fans or a portable air conditioning unit.
• Ensure the Room is Well-Insulated: Close doors and windows in this area to keep the cool air contained and reduce heat infiltration.
• Make It Comfortable: Set up comfortable seating and ensure there are plenty of cool drinks available to make the space enjoyable.

Creating a designated cool zone can help keep your family comfortable during extreme heat without overburdening your main air conditioning system.

10. Schedule Professional Tune-Ups

Regular professional tune-ups are essential for catching potential issues before they become major problems:

• Schedule a Tune-Up Before the Summer Heat Hits: Ensure your system is ready for peak performance by having it inspected and serviced by a professional before the hottest days arrive.
• Trust Emerald Heating & Cooling: Our expert technicians can identify and fix potential issues, ensuring your air conditioner runs efficiently all summer long.

Professional tune-ups can prevent unexpected breakdowns and extend the life of your air conditioning system.

Call Emerald Heating & Cooling For Buffalo AC Repair Today!

Caring for your air conditioner during extreme heat is crucial for maintaining comfort and efficiency. By following these tips, you can ensure your AC unit runs smoothly all summer long. Remember, for the best professional AC repair and maintenance services in Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding areas, contact Emerald Heating & Cooling. Our experienced technicians will keep your air conditioner in peak condition, ready to handle even the hottest days.

Call (716) 681-0113 Call (716) 681-0113