AC Maintenance Guide: How to Beat the Extreme Heat
The regional climate is also a major factor in designing the right-sized system.
Residential air conditioning systems are designed to cool roughly 15 to 20 degrees lower than the outdoor temperatures. That means,
When the outdoor high temperature is about 95 degrees (a normal summer day), the air conditioner can easily bring the indoor temperature to 75 to 80 degrees. But when the outdoor temperature exceeds 100 degrees, it struggles to bring the home to 75 degrees, no matter how low you turn the thermostat setting.
Smart Habits and Essential AC Maintenance to Beat the Extreme Heat
Here are a few things that you can do to assist your air conditioning system during periods of extreme heat.
Improve the insulation value of your home (during cooler seasons).
The attic should have insulation with at least R-38 in Texas. Make sure that windows, doors, and other openings are adequately caulked and sealed to prevent cool air from escaping. Remember, a summertime heatwave is not a safe time to climb into the attic to insulate.
Remember solar gain. Sunlight alone can increase indoor temperatures by 10 degrees without considering the poor R-value of glass. Keep windows and glass doors, especially those facing south, covered by blinds or drapes during the heat of the day. This solar gain can be helpful during winter months, but creates air conditioner stress during the summer months.
Use ceiling fans for your comfort.
Moving air helps sweat to evaporate and cools the skin, even when the temperature does not change. Use the tab to turn the fan blades to the left or counterclockwise during the summer, and use high speed. This creates a cool downward movement and helps to circulate the air in a room. Remember to change direction during the heating season to mix the cool air near the floor with the hot air near the ceiling and use a low-speed setting.
Know the age of your air conditioner.
The average life expectancy range of an air conditioner is between 15 and 20 years. Plan ahead. Don’t wait for the last day of the last year to fall on the hottest day of the summer, because the experience will be more uncomfortable and longer than you desire it to be.
Keep your air conditioner well-maintained with an annual cleaning and inspection.
Make sure to change the air filter at least once per quarter to prevent stress during the hottest days of the year.
Schedule Your AC Maintenance Appointment Today
Don’t wait for the hottest day of the year to find out your cooling system is struggling under the heat. Protect your home’s comfort and extend the life of your equipment by letting our certified technicians thoroughly inspect and tune up your unit. Call Northwind Air Conditioning and Heating at 713-683-9474 now to schedule your professional AC maintenance service and stay cool all summer long!