The AC unit in your home is a lifesaver on a hot summer day. When the temperatures rise in Chadron, NE, nothing feels as satisfying 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 breakdowns, operating your AC in intense heat can cause expensive problems.
The problem is, hot weather is when many homeowners depend on their air conditioner to keep their home cool. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help your air conditioner survive the hot weather. This blog will cover ways high temperatures affect your AC and summer cooling tips to keep you comfortable while safeguarding your cooling system.
Why Your AC Has Problems Keeping Up in Hot Weather
When it's very hot outdoors, there's a huge difference between the high outdoor temps and the comfortably chilled air you want in your home. Closing that difference between the two temperatures requires a lot of effort on the part of your cooling system, requiring it to run constantly to try to cool down your home.
How Extreme Heat Affects AC Performance
When your cooling system has to work extra hard in high heat it operates less efficiently—which in turn increases your utility bills. Running your AC in extreme heat can push your system too hard, especially the compressor, possibly causing damage or for it to break. The load caused by hot weather also can cause wear and tear on other components, leading to mechanical issues that require air conditioning repair.
The Importance of Proper Sizing of Your AC
Reducing the risk of your AC breaking down in high heat starts with choosing a properly sized AC for your home. An air conditioner that's too small can struggle to cool your home even on a moderate summer day. Units that are larger than necessary consume more power and may struggle to dehumidify.
During air conditioning installation at MPC Heating & Cooling, our skilled cooling professionals analyze your home’s specific layout and features and your comfort preferences to choose the best-cooling system for your home. Factors like your home's size, number of windows and insulation levels are all evaluated to make sure your air conditioner has enough power to cool your home efficiently.
How AC Maintenance Helps Protect Your AC During a Heatwave
One of the easiest ways to increase your AC efficiency during heat waves is to invest in professional air conditioning maintenance. During our pre-summer service calls, experienced cooling specialists thoroughly check your AC—checking things like internal components, electrical wiring and refrigerant levels. They also boost efficiency by cleaning out buildup and debris and replacing dirty air filters, reducing strain by allowing air to move freely through the system. The technicians at MPC Heating & Cooling also check for visible damage or brewing problems to address, which can help avoid mid-season failures during extreme heat.
Residents can help safeguard their AC by doing basic AC system chores in warmer months. Activities such as checking and replacing dirty air filters and making sure the coils on the outdoor unit are clean go a long way in maintaining optimal performance.
Common Misunderstandings About Cooling Your Home in High Heat
Several misconceptions exist about keeping your home cool in high temperatures. Here are three clarifications to the most popular misconceptions we hear about how to keep homes cool in a heatwave:
- Setting your thermostat extremely low does not speed up the cooling process. Your AC runs at the same speed no matter where you set the thermostat.
- Shutting your AC off completely when you're not home does not reduce your utility bills. Instead, it gives heat a chance to build and leave your system with extra work when you return and restart the system. It's better to adjust the setting slightly when you leave—but still leave your AC running.
- Selecting a larger-than-needed AC unit for your home isn’t the smartest solution. While bigger units have more power, they can cool a small space too quickly, causing temperature swings, moisture buildup and other problems. A unit that's appropriately sized delivers consistent comfort.
Ways to Help Your AC Handle Extreme Temperatures
Homeowners can take several steps to avoid an AC overload during heatwaves—while also staying comfortable:
- Raise your thermostat a few degrees higher and use fans to circulate air and make the room feel cooler
- Do basic AC upkeep in between professional HVAC maintenance visits like inspecting and replacing air filters, and hosing off outdoor unit coils
- Draw blinds and curtains to reduce heat gain from sunlight
- Seal windows and doors to minimize cool air from leaking out or hot air getting inside
- Don't run high-heat appliances like ovens, stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers during hot weather
Reduce AC Issues During Hot Weather with AC Maintenance from MPC Heating & Cooling
Make sure your air conditioner is ready for the hot weather in Chadron, NE, with AC maintenance from MPC Heating & Cooling. Our crews will carefully examine and service your unit, making sure it’s operating at peak efficiency. Set up your appointment by reaching out to our team at 308-470-5613 today!