If you’ve looked at the 10-day forecast for Dallas, you know what’s coming. Days upon days of 100° heat, scorching northern Texas well into late August.
If you’re feeling the heat, then guess what? So is your home’s trusty HVAC system!
Keeping your home cool and comfortable during extreme heat is a big job for your AC, and ensuring it’s up to the task is essential. With some knowledge and proactive steps, you can keep your air conditioning system running efficiently during this heatwave.
Understanding How Extreme Heat Affects Your AC
When outside temperatures climb above 95°F, your AC system is under intense pressure. The hotter it gets, the harder your AC works to maintain a cool temperature inside your home. This constant strain can lead to inefficiencies and even damage if you’re not careful.
Your air conditioner is designed to cool your home by absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outside. But when it’s scorching outside, the AC unit struggles to expel the heat effectively. It’s like trying to run a marathon in the middle of a desert—no matter how hard it works, the heat just keeps coming.
With all this extra work, your AC’s components, such as the compressor and fan motors, are at risk of overheating. When these parts get too hot, they can temporarily shut down or even fail altogether. This not only reduces your cooling efficiency but can also lead to costly repairs.
Overheating is one of the leading causes of AC breakdowns during the summer, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your system during heatwaves.
Common AC Problems During A Heatwave
Extreme heat doesn’t just make your AC work harder—it can also bring out the worst in it. Here are some common problems that tend to crop up when the temperatures spike:
Dirty Air Filters
Air filters play a crucial role in your AC system by trapping dust, dirt, and other debris, preventing them from clogging up the system. But during the summer, these filters can get dirty fast. When a filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder to push cool air through your home. This reduced cooling efficiency can lead to higher energy bills and, over time, cause parts of your AC to overheat.
The good news? Cleaning or replacing your air filters is a simple and effective way to keep your system running efficiently. Most filters should be checked monthly during peak use and replaced every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and how much you use your AC.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the substance your AC uses to absorb and release heat. If there’s a leak in the system, your AC can’t cool your home effectively, and you might notice that the air coming from your vents isn’t as cold as it should be.
Leaks reduce cooling efficiency and can lead to severe damage if left untreated. If you suffer a compressor failure in the midst of a heatwave, it can be one of the most expensive repairs you can face.
Regular professional maintenance can help catch refrigerant leaks early before they become a significant problem. If you notice ice forming on your AC unit or warm air blowing from your vents, it is imperative that you call CAST Heating & Air Conditioning immediately so we can take a look.
System Overload and Power Grid Issues
It’s not just your AC working overtime during extreme heat—everyone else’s is. This can significantly strain the power grid, especially during peak usage times in the afternoon and early evening. You might experience power surges or even blackouts when the grid is overloaded.
If your AC is running during a surge, it could trip the circuit breaker or, worse, suffer damage from the sudden change in power. To reduce the risk, try to minimize your AC usage during peak hours by keeping your home cool in other ways, like using fans or drawing blinds and curtains to block out the sun.
If you’re experiencing frequent power issues, consider installing a surge protector on your HVAC system to protect it from electrical damage.
Tips for Optimizing AC Performance
Even when the temperatures are sky-high, there are several things you can do to help your AC run more efficiently and keep your home cool.
Proper Thermostat Use
Your thermostat is the control center of your AC system, and how you use it can make a big difference in your comfort and energy bills. During extreme heat, aim to keep your thermostat set at 78°F when you’re home and bump it up to 82°F when you’re away. This balance helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without putting too much strain on your system.
Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can make this even easier. These devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring your home is cool when you need it to be and saving energy when you don’t. Some smart thermostats even offer features like geofencing, which can adjust the temperature based on your location, so your home is always comfortable when you arrive.
Attic Insulation
Believe it or not, one of the best ways to keep your home cool is by ensuring your attic is adequately insulated. During a heatwave like Dallas is experiencing, the sun beats down on your roof and turns your attic into a giant heat sink. If your attic isn’t well-insulated, all that heat can seep into your living spaces, making your AC work even harder to keep things cool.
Good insulation acts as a barrier, keeping the extreme outside air from entering your house. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, proper insulation can reduce cooling costs by up to 40%, making it a wise investment for any homeowner.
Shading and Airflow
Your AC unit works best when it’s cool and has plenty of air circulation. One way to help it is by providing shade for the outdoor unit. By keeping it out of direct sunlight, you can reduce the amount of heat it absorbs, making it easier for the system to cool the air. Just be careful not to block airflow—keep plants, bushes, and other obstructions at least 2-4 feet away from the unit.
Preventive Maintenance to Keep Your AC Running Smoothly
When it comes to keeping your AC in top shape, preventive maintenance is key. Regular maintenance can help you catch minor issues before they become big problems and ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible.
Cleaning Condenser Coils
The condenser coils in your AC are responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from inside your home. These coils can get dirty over time, especially if your unit is in a dusty area or near trees and bushes. When the coils are dirty, they can’t release heat as effectively, which forces your AC to work harder and can lead to overheating.
Cleaning the coils regularly can help prevent this. When you sign up for a CAST Heating & Air Conditioning bi-annual maintenance plan, we will ensure that your coils are squeaky clean during the most extreme conditions.
Checking for Air Duct Leaks
Leaky air ducts can be a significant source of energy waste. If there are gaps or holes in your ductwork, cool air can escape before it ever reaches your living spaces, making your AC work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This not only reduces efficiency but can also increase your energy bills.
During your bi-annual maintenance, we can check for leaks and seal them using mastic or foil tape, ensuring that your system operates at peak performance.
CAST Is Here For You
Even with the best care, there may come a time when your AC needs a little extra help. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call your friends at CAST Heating & Air Conditioning:
- Uneven cooling: If some rooms in your home are much cooler or warmer than others, it could indicate a problem with your ductwork or thermostat.
- Unusual noises: Strange sounds like grinding, hissing, or banging can signal a mechanical issue that must be addressed before it worsens.
- Water leakage: Water pooling around your AC unit could indicate a blocked drain line or a refrigerant leak.
Regular professional maintenance, ideally once a year, can help catch these issues early and keep your system running smoothly throughout the summer.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your AC running efficiently during a Texas heatwave isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your investment and avoiding costly repairs. By understanding how extreme heat affects your system, staying on top of regular maintenance, and making thoughtful adjustments, you can keep your home cool and your energy bills in check, even on the hottest days of the year.
Remember, if your AC needs a little extra care, don’t hesitate to call us at (972) 955-2588. We’ll schedule a quick service trip to ensure your system works properly and avoid long-term damage as the temperatures rise. Stay cool out there!