Arizona summers are known for their extreme temperatures. Average highs for temperatures sit around 99°F and can reach well over 100°F. To combat the intense heat, it’s important to have an air conditioning system that’s up to the task.
Escaping the heat, staying inside, and relying on your air conditioning more often during the summer can put a strain on your AC. With its increased workload, it’s common for homeowners to experience a variety of air conditioning issues. These issues range from unexpected noises, the AC system cycling on and off, and a decrease in cooling efficiency. All of these problems signify the need for professional AC maintenance.
Chandler Air understands how much of a battle Arizona heat can be. Read on to find helpful tips that’ll get you through the year’s hottest days.
Essential AC Maintenance for Summer
The best way to ensure your air conditioner is working its best is to start regular maintenance before summer hits. Check out our pre-summer and during-summer checkup suggestions below.
Pre-Summer AC Checkup Tips
Inspecting components of your air conditioning system such as its refrigerant levels, thermostat, and electrical connections is a crucial part of understanding the status of your air conditioning heading into the summer. Catching issues early means you can enjoy a fully functioning air conditioner during the summer heat waves.
Handling an Outside AC Unit Freezing Up in Summer
It’s a scorcher outside—so why is your AC freezing up? The outside AC unit can freeze due to low refrigerant levels, poor airflow, and continuous operation. One way to help prevent this from happening would be regularly checking and switching out your air conditioning’s air filters.
Other issues like a clogged condensate drain line, damaged or faulty wiring, and low refrigerant levels need to be addressed by a professional HVAC technician.
Get in touch with Chandler Air immediately if these issues are plaguing your AC system.
Optimal AC Settings for Arizona Summers
Arizona sees approximately 286 sunny days per year—significantly higher than the national average. With the sun beating down on homeowners, it’s advantageous to know the best AC settings—especially during the summer months.
Best AC Temperature Settings for Efficient Cooling
To strike a balance between keeping your home comfortable, and cool, while still conserving energy, the recommended AC setting would be about 78°F. This allows your home to settle at a significantly lower temperature compared to the summer heat while still saving on some energy, making for an efficient cooling experience. To foster a cooler environment, the best AC setting for cooling in general would be between 72°F and 76°F.
Adjusting Your AC Settings Throughout the Day
Sometimes all your thermostat needs is a simple adjustment. If you’re at home, adjust the settings based on outside temperatures and the comfort you want inside your home.
Another way to maximize cooling efficiency is by using a programmable thermostat, or “smart thermostat.” These thermostats can be controlled on the go, so when you’re not home, you can cut back on AC usage and save on energy consumption. These devices make for the most energy-efficient homes.
Enhancing AC Efficiency During Arizona’s Heat Waves
When those Arizona heat waves strike, you want to be equipped with the proper tools to drive up AC efficiency. These are some ways to help enhance your home’s AC efficiency during those sweltering days.
Techniques to Improve Air Circulation and Reduce AC Load
Homeowners can use several techniques to improve air circulation while reducing AC load. Start by increasing insulation levels by creating barriers. This includes creating shade from windows, making sure all possible airways are sealed tightly, and installing energy-efficient windows and roofing.
To further lighten the AC load within your home, start by turning off the electrical appliances that aren’t needed. Use fans strategically throughout the home to drive airflow. Then, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances to further cut down on energy consumption.
Importance of Air Filter Maintenance in Peak Summer
Because of the increased workload, the air filter will need to be maintained and changed more often. Make sure to keep tabs on your air conditioning’s air filters for debris buildup that will decrease its energy efficiency. Making air filter maintenance a priority during the peak summer months is a good place to start to keep your AC working at its best.
Innovative Cooling Tips Beyond AC
Aside from air conditioning, there are other innovative cooling tips Arizona homeowners can implement to help cool their homes throughout the summer.
DIY Tips for Keeping Your Home Cool Without Overusing AC
Here are some DIY tips any Arizona homeowner can incorporate into their daily lives to help curve the Arizona heat:
- Open windows at night
- Close window coverings
- Insulate and air-seal your home
- Bake and wash at night
- Cook outside instead of using the oven
Utilizing Fans and Other Cooling Systems
More options to achieve the same goal would be utilizing fans and other cooling systems. Using floor and ceiling fans can make a huge difference in cooling your Arizona home during the summer. The strategic use of these fans throughout the home will deliver cooling and proper airflow. Installing other cooling systems can also help. Just chat with one of our experts for advice.
At Chandler Air, We’re Your Expert in HVAC Solutions
Chandler Air offers a complete range of HVAC services including repair, maintenance, and installation. Chandler Air has the expertise and reliability to handle residential and commercial HVAC needs by using state-of-the-art technology and certified technicians. So when the Arizona summers are creeping up on the calendar, Chandler Air is ready to offer its expert HVAC solutions to help you keep your home cool.
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