As Bay Area homeowners know, summer can be challenging for air conditioning systems. As the hot weather continues, AC units are pushed to their limits, often leading to various issues that can compromise their efficiency and effectiveness.
Common reasons why your AC might struggle during the summer, particularly after a season of use:
- Increased demand and cooling load
- Problems with ductwork
- Clogged air filters
- System inefficiencies
- Repair problems
Due to outdated technology and worn components, older air conditioning systems tend to be more susceptible to trouble. As these systems age, their efficiency naturally declines, making it more challenging to meet the increased cooling demands of hotter temperatures. They may also lack modern features that improve performance and energy efficiency.
Practical Solution #1: Support Your AC More Effectively
Many of the issues listed above can be mitigated through proactive support of your cooling system. Boosting your home's cooling doesn't have to be time-consuming, complex or expensive. Instead, focus on small things you can do to encourage improved cooling throughout your home.
Tips to help your AC operate more effectively:
- Utilize programmable thermostats
- Turn on the intuitive scheduling features on your smart thermostat
- Use ceiling fans or room fans to help distribute cool air more effectively
- Keep blinds and curtains closed during peak sun hours
- Change air filters every three to four months
- Make sure vents and registers are open and pointing in the correct direction
A quick note on ceiling fans: to more effectively distribute cool air, ceiling fans should spin counterclockwise. In contrast, during the winter, you should switch the fan's direction to clockwise.
Practical Solution #2: Schedule Yearly Professional Maintenance
Regular professional maintenance is crucial for keeping your AC system running efficiently. Remember, older or poorly maintained systems are more prone to inefficiencies and breakdowns. Working with a professional AC expert like Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, can make a big difference in your system's long-term performance.
Things with which our professional AC specialists can help:
- Thermostat calibration
- Refrigerant checks
- Inspections to ensure your system is adequately sized
- Upgrading to a more energy-efficient model when it is time for a replacement
- Ductwork inspections for repair issues and air leaks
- Routine duct cleaning every three to five years
Bonus Summer Cooling Solution - Consider Installing a Ductless System
A ductless AC system can be an excellent solution for homeowners looking to bring air conditioning to new areas like garages, ADUs or room additions. Ductless systems, or mini-splits, consist of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units.
These systems are highly efficient and allow for flexible installation without the need for extensive ductwork. They’re ideal for spaces not connected to your home’s central HVAC system, providing adequate cooling where you need it most.
A Warning Against Using Portable Air Conditioners
While portable air conditioners can provide a temporary respite from the heat, they should not be viewed as a long-term solution for your cooling needs. These units are often less efficient than central HVAC systems and can struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home, especially during peak summer months.
Struggling with an AC emergency? Read our blog for tips on what to do while you wait for our service technicians to arrive.
If you frequently rely on portable units to cool your space, it's a clear sign that your existing system may not be adequate to meet your needs. Instead of depending on these short-term fixes, consider working our professionals at Valley to replace or upgrade your AC system to one that is better matched to your needs. Our team can help ensure that your system is up to date and in good condition, providing you with reliable and efficient cooling solutions for years to come.
For more help keeping your home cool this summer, contact us online.