The AC unit in your home is a lifesaver on a scorching summer day. When the hot weather arrives in Belton, MO, nothing feels quite so good as a refreshingly 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 malfunctions, operating your AC in extreme temperatures can cause expensive problems.
The problem is, oppressive heat is when most people really count on their air conditioner to stay comfortable. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help your cooling system perform under pressure. This blog will cover how hot weather affects your air conditioner and summer cooling tips to maintain comfort while protecting your HVAC system from damage.
Why Your AC Has Problems Keeping Up in Hot Weather
When it's extremely hot outside, there's a significant gap between the intense heat outside and the cool indoor temperature you desire. Bridging the temperature gap requires a lot of work on the part of your cooling system, making it cycle continuously to try to cool down your home.
How Extreme Heat Impacts AC Performance
When your air conditioner has to run more often, or even constantly it becomes less effective—which in turn drives up your energy expenses. Running your AC in intense summer weather can overload your cooling system, especially the compressor, possibly causing damage or for it to break. The stress from high temperatures also can cause wear and tear on other components, leading to mechanical issues that require air conditioning repair.
Why the Correct Size AC is Important
Reducing the risk of your AC shutting down in extreme temps starts with selecting the right size air conditioner for your home. An air conditioner that's not powerful enough can have trouble ensuring your comfort even on a moderate summer day. Units that are larger than necessary waste energy and may struggle to dehumidify.
During air conditioning installation at Myers Furnace Company, our experienced HVAC technicians analyze your home’s specific layout and features and your comfort preferences to find the ideal AC for your home. Factors like your home's overall dimensions, number of windows and insulation levels are all evaluated to make sure your air conditioner has the capacity to maintain comfort.
Ways that AC Maintenance Helps Protect Your AC During Extreme Heat
One of the smartest ways to boost air conditioner effectiveness during hot summer spells is to invest in professional air conditioning maintenance. During our routine tune-ups, qualified professionals evaluate the entire unit—checking things like internal components, connections and coolant amounts. They also boost efficiency by cleaning out buildup and debris and installing clean filters, easing the load by improving airflow through the system. The technicians at Myers Furnace Company also look for any signs of wear or brewing problems to repair, which can help avoid mid-season failures during extreme heat.
Residents can help safeguard their AC by doing simple upkeep in the summer heat. 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 helping your system run better.
Common Misunderstandings About Cooling Your Home in High Heat
Several misconceptions exist about using your AC effectively in extreme heat. Here are three facts to the most popular misconceptions we hear about how to keep your AC trouble-free during hot weather:
- Drastically lowering the temperature setting does not make your home colder faster. Your AC will cool your home at a steady pace no matter where you set the thermostat.
- Shutting your AC off completely when you're not home does not save energy. Instead, it gives heat a chance to build and leave your system with extra work when you come home and turn the air back on. It's better to dial the temp back a few degrees when you leave—but still keep the system on.
- Choosing an air conditioner that's too big for your home isn’t the most effective option. While bigger units have more power, they can cool a small space too quickly, causing temperature swings, high humidity and other problems. A unit that's appropriately sized cools your home better.
Ways to Help Your AC Handle Extreme Heat
Homeowners can take several steps to reduce the risk of an AC overload during heatwaves—while also staying comfortable:
- Adjust your thermostat a few degrees higher and use fans to move air and make the room feel cooler
- Do routine AC chores in between professional HVAC maintenance visits like checking and replacing air filters, and rinsing outdoor unit coils
- Draw blinds and curtains to block out sunlight
- Weatherproof windows and doors to minimize cool air from leaking out or hot air entering the home
- Don't run heat-generating appliances such as ovens, stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers during hot weather
Avoid AC Breakdowns During Hot Weather with AC Maintenance from Myers Furnace Company
Make sure your air conditioner is ready for the hot weather in Belton, MO, with AC maintenance from Myers Furnace Company. Our crews will thoroughly check and tune up your unit, making sure it’s running at its best. Book your appointment by calling 816-370-5244 today!