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As temperatures soar and the sun blazes over Surf City, your air conditioner becomes your most valued home appliance. But with peak summer heat comes increased energy use, higher utility bills, and the risk of overworking your AC system.
The good news is that staying cool and keeping your energy bills under control doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a few strategic steps, you can enjoy a more comfortable home while improving your system’s performance and efficiency. Here are six smart ways to beat the heat and keep your home cool and your air conditioner running at its best during the hottest months of the year.
1. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up
Your AC system works hard during summer, especially in humid coastal areas like Surf City. Just like your car, it performs better with regular maintenance. A professional tune-up includes inspecting, cleaning, and calibrating key components, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring proper airflow.
Why it matters:
- Increases system efficiency
- Prevents costly breakdowns
- Extends the lifespan of your AC unit
- Keeps energy bills in check
If you haven’t had your system serviced this year, now is the time to schedule a maintenance visit before summer demand peaks.
2. Change Your Air Filters Regularly
Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC system to work harder to cool your home. This not only raises your energy bills but can also reduce indoor air quality.
Tip: Replace filters every one to three months, depending on usage, household size, and whether you have pets or allergy sensitivities.
3. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set cooling schedules that align with your daily routine. For example, you can set the temperature a few degrees higher when you’re not home and have it cool down before you return.
Benefits include:
- Lower energy consumption
- More consistent indoor temperatures
- Enhanced comfort without manual adjustments
Smart thermostats can even provide energy usage reports and adjust settings automatically based on humidity and occupancy.
4. Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home
Even the most powerful AC unit will struggle if your home is leaking cool air. Check for air leaks around windows, doors, and attic hatches. Weatherstripping and caulking are affordable fixes that make a big difference. Add insulation where needed, especially in the attic, to reduce heat transfer and help your AC maintain consistent temperatures more efficiently.
5. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans help circulate air throughout your home, making you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. They’re especially useful in rooms that are frequently used during the day.
Pro tip: In summer, make sure your ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise to push cool air downward.
6. Block Out the Sun
Natural sunlight heats up your home quickly. During the hottest parts of the day, keep curtains or blinds closed – especially on south- and west-facing windows. Consider using thermal or blackout curtains to block heat more effectively. You can also install reflective window film to reduce solar heat gain without blocking natural light entirely.
At Gideon Heating & Air Conditioning, we like to say that our work isn’t just good – it’s Gideon Guaranteed! Contact us today to schedule HVAC services.