How to Help Your Air Conditioner Keep Up with the Heat

If your home is warm and uncomfortable, contact Watson Heating & Air. Call (859) 695-3950 to speak with a representative.

Is the summer weather making you sweat? You're probably wondering how to help your air conditioner keep up.

Keep reading to discover Watson Heating & Air's tips for helping your air conditioner beat the heat. As the best AC repair experts in Richmond, KY, our experts can find a solution to any air conditioner problem. 

1. Block the Sun

The sun is the biggest source of heat within your home. When it shines through your windows, it significantly raises the temperatures inside your house.

Installing window treatments, like solar shades or light-blocking drapes, significantly reduces the amount of heat your home gains. With a more consistent temperature, you can run your air conditioner less and prevent it from working too hard to maintain the temperature.

2. Seal Leaks

Tiny leaks in your doors, windows, and insulation let cold air out and warm air in. This increases the effort your air conditioner puts in while obtaining less desirable results. Improve your insulation and reduce leaks to help your AC unit.

3. Maintain Your Filter

Your AC unit's air filter provides pure, cold air by eradicating contaminating particles like dust and allergens. Most filters require changing or cleaning every 30 to 90 days or more frequently if you smoke, have pets, or live in a polluted area.

A clogged air filter reduces airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to keep up. Keeping your filters clean is the easiest way to enhance your AC unit's cooling power.

4. Increase Air Flow

If you're wondering how to help your air conditioner keep up with the heat, consider improving its airflow through other means. The evaporator coil and condenser coil easily accumulate dirt, reducing the AC unit's airflow. Keep your air conditioner clean inside and out to help it more easily maintain a comfortable temperature.

5. Inspect Ductwork

Your home requires a network of air ducts and vents to transport and distribute the cool air. Ducts can become disconnected, tear, or leak, which prevents cold air from effectively reaching your rooms. If your notice the rooms within your home aren't cooling at the same rate or your air conditioner has problems keeping up, call HVAC professionals to inspect your ductwork.

6. Utilize Fans

Ceiling fans are a great way to help your air conditioner keep up with the heat. A fan can reduce the ambient temperature in the room by several degrees, meaning your air conditioner works less, and you can set your thermostat higher while remaining comfortable. For the best results, run your fans clockwise to prevent the warm air from needlessly triggering your air conditioner.

7. Turn Up the Thermostat

While modern air conditioners run efficiently, you can help yours by setting your thermostat to the most efficient temperature. When you utilize other complimentary cooling methods, you can set your thermostat at the most efficient setting: 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This keeps your air conditioner in working order while maintaining your comfort.

While it's counter-intuitive, never turn down the temperature on your thermostat when the air conditioner isn't keeping up. If it can't keep up at 71 degrees, turning it down to 68 will only make it work harder for the same results.

8. Clean Outside

The outdoor AC unit includes the evaporator and condenser coils, which are necessary for efficient cooling. Since they're outside, they quickly accumulate dirt or become crowded by encroaching plant life. Regularly clean your air conditioner and keep a two-foot perimeter around it clear of plants and features.

9. Spend Time Outside

You can help your air conditioner keep up with the outside heat by getting out of the house. Start by doing heat-producing activities, like cooking or exercising, outside to avoid heating up your interior.

You can also go to a park or commercial property with air conditioning. You'll still stay cool but can give your air conditioner a break since you shouldn't run it while you're not home.

Call Watson Heating & Air to Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Now that you know how to help your air conditioner keep up, you can remain comfortable all summer. No matter what problem your air conditioner experiences, our team at Watson Heating & Air can help. With prompt and professional service and a dedication to your satisfaction, we're the best choice for HVAC services in the Lexington area.

If your AC stops and starts again, Watson Heating & Air can help. Call (859) 695-3950 to book an appointment.