Summer and Your HVAC

Efficiency, Comfort, and Cost Control are important. Important steps involve maintaining your system, managing indoor heat and humidity, and using smart controls to reduce energy waste.

1) Tune up your cooling system early

Regular maintenance keeps your AC running efficiently and prevents mid-summer breakdowns. Perform annual servicing and monthly filter checks to maintain airflow and avoid expensive failures. A professional tune-up improves performance and extends system life.

2) Use smart or programmable thermostats

Smart thermostats help reduce energy use by adjusting temperatures automatically when you’re away. Programmable thermostats as one of the easiest ways to maintain comfort while lowering costs. Trane notes that setting your thermostat around 78°F in summer can reduce cooling costs, with each degree above 72°F saving up to 3%.

3) Manage sunlight and indoor heat gain

Keeping blinds and curtains closed during peak sun hours significantly reduces indoor heat load. Keep doors/windows closed and blinds drawn on south-facing windows to keep cool air in and heat out.

4) Improve airflow and circulation

Ceiling fans set to counterclockwise create a wind-chill effect, helping you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.

5) Control humidity

High humidity makes your home feel hotter and forces your AC to work harder. Control humidity by cooking outdoors and eating fresh food to minimize kitchen humidity. Run the bathroom fan or open a window when showering. Trane recommends considering a whole-house dehumidifier if humidity is a persistent issue. Cleaning your condenser unit is also essential to prevent mold and moisture buildup.

6) Seal, insulate, and optimize your home envelope

Seal air leaks and insulate to keep cool air inside and reduce AC workload. Make sure vents and registers are open and unobstructed.

7) Consider energy-efficient upgrades

Upgrade older systems (12+ years) to higher-efficiency models for significant energy savings.

8) Adjust temperatures when away

Trane advises raising your thermostat 7–10°F when you’re out for 8+ hours to save up to 10% annually on cooling costs