In recent years, frequency and length of heat waves have increased a lot. According to many studies, the average heat wave duration of the US is now 45 days longer compared to 1970’s. These longer heatwaves often come as a challenge for the air conditioning units. But if you take few specific measures and follow some tips, your AC system will be able to cope with these heat waves and keep your space comfortable and cool.

4 Tips to Cool Your Home during Heat Waves

1.      Set the Thermostat Temperature to 75-78 Degrees Fahrenheit

When it’s 100 degrees Fahrenheit outside, many homeowners tend to set the thermostat settings to 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit. But when you lower the temperature, it creates a lot of pressure on the AC system and decreases the efficiency.

So, what is the ideal temperature during heatwaves?

It’s recommended that you set the thermostat temperature to 75-78 degrees Fahrenheit. By doing so, your AC unit will operate efficiently and give you comfort at the same time.

2.      Set the AC Fan to On Position

Instead of setting the AC fans to “Auto”, you should set the fans to “On” mode. This will allow the air conditioning unit to circulate air throughout your house and lower the temperature.

If you have a two-story house, this tip can be effective as well. With this tip, you can reduce the temperature difference between two floors and keep your home comfortable.

3.      Close the Vents in Unoccupied Rooms

If your house isn’t fully occupied or some of your family members are out of the house, turn off the vents in the unoccupied rooms. Besides, close the doors of those rooms and seal the rooms properly. This will increase energy conservation and allow your cooling unit to run more efficiently.

When you disconnect the unoccupied rooms from the rest of the house, your cooling unit will have to cover less area. As a result, it’ll be able to produce cooling efficiently and lower the temperature of your house much faster.

4.      Ensure Timely Repair & Maintenance

To get the most out of your cooling unit during heat waves, there is no alternative to regular air conditioner maintenance. When you do regular AC maintenance, all your AC parts will be in good condition. As a result, your AC unit will perform more efficiently and cool your space faster. But a poorly maintained cooling system will make the situation in your house worse. That’s why before starting the summer, it’s recommended that you do an AC maintenance checkup and if the technician finds any fault in the system, you should fix it as soon as possible.

Bonus Tip

During heat waves, try not to use or limit the usage of appliances that produces heat. For example, Plasma TV, washing machine, lights, etc. Also, you can use ceiling fans to lower the temperature of your house. With ceiling fans, you can decrease the pressure from your cooling system.

Now, you need to know why your AC won’t perform during the heat waves.

4 Reasons behind Air Conditioner Poor Performance

·         Dirty Air Conditioner Air Filter

When your AC unit has a clogged air filter, it won’t get enough airflow and as a result, your AC won’t be able to cool your house properly.

·         Undersized or Oversized AC Unit

To get the maximum out of your cooling unit, you’ll have to ensure that you have a right-sized AC unit in your space. When you buy an oversized or undersized cooling unit, it won’t be able to cool your space and consume more electricity.

·         Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leak

Over time, due to various reasons, refrigerants can start to leak from the AC unit. And when there is a leak in the refrigerant, heat removal capacity of your AC will decrease drastically.

·         Leaks in the Air Ducts

And finally, if there are leaks in the air ducts of your HVAC system, produced air will leak through them. As a result, your cooling unit will have to operate longer and your comfort will be affected.

If you’re currently facing any of the above problems, you’ll have to call an HVAC professional ASAP and fix it. Otherwise, it’ll be harder for your AC to tackle intense heat waves.

See the summary of this content in an infographic – 4 Tips to Cool Your Home during Heatwaves [Infographic]