If you live in an area that frequently experiences heat waves during the warmer months of the year, you should know how to keep your HVAC system operating as efficiently as possible. This will not only help you save on utility bills, but also extend the life of your air conditioner. Neglecting to maintain efficiency in hot temperatures will cause your AC unit to work overtime to keep up with your cooling demands. To prevent the unnecessary wear and tear that results from this, take the following steps to help your air conditioner endure excessive heat conditions. 

How to Keep Your HVAC System Running Efficiently in High Heat 

Set Your Thermostat to the Right Temperature

Though you may prefer to keep your home a little warmer or cooler, 78 degrees is the ideal temperature to set your thermostat to when you’re home. The lower you go, the longer your air conditioner will have to run to reach the desired temperature. When you’re away from home, turn the thermostat up a few degrees rather than turn it completely off. This way your AC won’t have to work harder to cool the indoor temperature all the way back down upon your return. 

Replace Filters Regularly 

Changing your HVAC filters regularly is beneficial to your health, and it also helps improve your system’s efficiency by a significant percentage. When a filter is clogged with dirt and debris, airflow is inhibited, which will increase the strain on your air conditioner as it struggles to distribute cool air. The general recommendation is that you replace your AC filter every one to three months, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Reduce the Amount of Heat Generated Indoors 

There are several measures you can take to reduce the amount of heat that’s generated inside your living environment. This will help decrease the pressure your air conditioner is under to keep your home cool enough when the temperatures soar. Shade your windows during the day to prevent heat from the sunlight coming in, use fans to keep cool air moving throughout your house, close off unused rooms, limit your use of the dryer and dishwasher, and cook outside as much as possible instead of the kitchen.

Schedule Professional Maintenance Annually 

Routine maintenance is crucial for achieving better HVAC efficiency. So, schedule professional air conditioner service once a year. During a thorough inspection and tuneup, your technician will make sure every part of the unit works at peak performance. They will also address any minor issues that need to be fixed before they become a costly problem. 

Maintaining efficiency is the key to cutting cooling costs and avoiding a premature air conditioner replacement. For help making sure your HVAC system stays in good working order, turn to B&B Plumbing and Heating. They have provided the residents of Oxford, OH, with quality air conditioner service since 1985 and offer effective solutions for keeping your home cool in even the hottest of temperatures. Call (513) 523-4010 to get a job estimate, or visit their website to learn more about signing up for an HVAC Service Agreement.