If you enjoy feeling cool air all around you while you’re home, you’re apt to run your AC system 24/7 – especially during a hot stretch. After all, nobody likes a sweltering living room or sleepless, sticky nights in the bedroom. But pushing your AC too hard can lead to higher utility bills, added wear and tear, and even unexpected breakdowns – and always, it seems, on the most sweltering hot day. Luckily, there are numerous smart and effective ways to beat the heat.
Make the Most of Fans
Fans don’t actually lower your temperature, but they do keep air moving to help your indoor spaces feel cooler. Ceiling fans, box fans, and oscillating fans can make a noticeable difference, especially when used properly.
To get the most from your ceiling fan, for example, set it to run counterclockwise to push cooler air downward. This can let you bump your thermostat up a few degrees without losing comfort.
Block Out Heat from the Sun
Direct sunlight can quickly turn your home into a greenhouse. (This phenomenon is called heat gain.) Take these steps to keep harsh sunlight out, and heat gain low:
- Keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows.
- Use thermal drapes or blackout curtains to add extra insulation.
- Consider installing awnings, shade sails, or shutters to reduce the sun’s impact.
Reducing heat gain keeps indoor temperatures more stable and your AC from running overtime.
Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
One of the best ways to keep your AC from working too hard is to install a programmable or smart thermostat. Once installed, set it so higher temperatures prevail when you’re not at home. You can also set a smart thermostat so your home feels nice and cool by the time you get home. Even a small change – like setting the thermostat to 78°F instead of 72°F while you’re out or away – can noticeably lower your energy bill.
Smart thermostats can also adjust automatically to your daily routine, helping you stay comfortable without extra effort.
Avoid Adding Extra Heat Indoors
Daily tasks like cooking and laundry can raise your home’s temperature more than you might expect: To help prevent that from happening, follow these simple steps:
- Cook in the early morning or evening, use a microwave, or grill outside to avoid heating up your kitchen.
- Run dishwashers and clothes dryers during cooler hours instead of midday.
- Switch to LED light bulbs, which produce far less heat than traditional bulbs.
By reducing indoor heat sources, your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to keep things nice and comfortable.
Keep Your AC in Top Shape
A little DIY preventive maintenance helps your system run more efficiently and last longer. Here’s what you can do to help your own cause:
- Change or clean air filters every 1–3 months.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass, and debris to maintain airflow.
- Schedule an annual AC tune-up and inspection so we can check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and ensure that everything is operating smoothly.
A well-maintained system can cool your home more effectively with less energy use.
Stay Comfortable All Summer Long
By combining these habits—smart thermostat use, blocking out heat, using fans, and scheduling regular maintenance—you can help keep your home cool without overworking your AC system or breaking the bank. If it’s been over a year since your last system check, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Contact Zach Heating & Cooling today to help ensure your AC system is ready for the hottest days ahead – and all so you and your family can enjoy a comfortable, worry-free summer.