Does Drought Affect Your Air Conditioning System? What You Need to Know

Small problems can become big ones when temperatures rise.

The heat waves of summer are getting more frequent. For those sensitive to temperature, this translates into daytime being a little unbearable, too. However, there are certain things you can do to keep your indoor temps cool. You’ll also avoid putting too much strain on your air conditioning system …or your wallet during these sweltering summer days!

Close windows and drapes in the morning.

No matter how powerful your HVAC equipment, it will only help your system to keep your home protected from the sun’s brutal rays. Every morning, be sure to shut the windows, as well as all curtains, shades or drapes in sunny rooms until nightfall.

Close off vents and doors to rooms that no one uses.

It’s easy to forget how much that extra bedroom or the unused study can draw off cooler air from your HVAC during a heatwave. Shut the vents in those rooms. Make sure you shut the doors, too.  You’ll prevent losing any airflow to areas of your home that aren’t going to be used, and conserving cool air for the rooms you do. It will also reduce strain on your air conditioning system in general.

Make sure the HVAC fan switch is on (not auto).

This will promote better air circulation and ensure all rooms are equally cool and comfortable. Remember, this isn’t the same as leaving your switch on “auto.”

Change your air filters.

Did you know a dirty filter could block airflow and leave your home warmer on the hottest days? Invest in inexpensive new air filters for your home. They’re simple to change, easy to purchase and are one less thing to worry about when it comes to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly.

Check your outside condenser.

Make sure your outside condenser does not have any debris, outdoor furniture, toys or branches up against or inside it.  Windy days, little kids or a careless landscaper can inadvertently block part or all of the condenser, thus preventing it from doing its job. Also, check to make sure the fins inside have not been bent or damaged.

If you’re doing all these things and noticing your system still is not cooling efficiently, it may be time to call in a professional to assess for equipment problems.  While hot weather does make it harder for your system to cool your home, you don’t want to ignore a potentially fixable problem before it morphs into a total disaster.

Stay hydrated.

While this isn’t a suggestion for your HVAC system, it is essential for everyone. Don’t overlook your own well-being when it’s hot outside. Athletes, older adults and frankly, anyone who goes outside in the summer heat needs to be mindful of consuming enough fluids throughout the day. You’ll feel better and have more energy, too!

 

Don’t risk your air conditioner breaking down on the hottest days of summer. Call Air-Tro today to schedule a maintenance appointment. We’ve been keeping California comfortable since 1969! (626) 357-3535.