Beating The AZ Heat - Best Practices

Arizona is hot! A/C units are pushed to their limits to try to keep up with cool air demands. Below are some things you need to know about running your AC unit in these kinds of conditions.

Common Questions

Most Popular Tips

Scheduling professional inspections prevents performance issues. Technicians from Total Heating & Cooling can identify and fix potential problems before they escalate. Regular maintenance is crucial for identifying issues like refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, or wear and tear on belts and motors.

Ideal Timing for Maintenance:

Spring and fall are the ideal times for AC maintenance, ensuring your system is ready to handle extreme temperatures efficiently.

Long-Term Benefits:

Consistent maintenance not only enhances performance but also extends the lifespan of your AC unit, saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.

DIY Maintenance Tips:

Between professional checks, keep your AC in top shape by changing filters regularly, clearing the area around outdoor units, and ensuring indoor vents are unobstructed.

Enhancing Airflow and Circulation

Utilize ceiling or oscillating fans to distribute cooled air efficiently, allowing you to set the thermostat a bit higher without compromising comfort.

When To Consider Upgrading Your AC Unit:

Signs For an Upgrade: If your AC unit is older, signs like frequent repairs, uneven cooling, and skyrocketing energy bills indicate it’s time for an upgrade.

Benefits of Modern Units:

Modern AC units are designed with efficiency in mind, offering features like variable speed fans and smart thermostat compatibility. Investing in a new system can improve your home’s comfort and significantly reduce long-term cooling costs.

Consulting With HVAC Professionals:

A professional assessment from Total Heating & Cooling can help determine the right size and type of AC unit for your space, maximizing efficiency and comfort.

Setting The Ideal Temperature:

For most people, having the thermostat set between 68-72 degrees is comfortable, especially when the temperature outside in Phoenix can be over 100º. However, this takes a lot of energy for your air conditioner to maintain this temperature throughout the day unless you have a very well-insulated house. Typically with a thermostat set around 75 degrees and a fan running, you can stay plenty cool enough during the day to thwart the outside heat. Plus, if you’re going to be outside working or playing, coming into a 75-degree house will still feel refreshingly cool.

Is A Larger AC Unit Necessary?

The size of your AC unit significantly impacts its efficiency and ability to cool your home effectively. While it might seem logical that a larger unit would perform better during extreme heat, it’s crucial to find a balance.

An oversized unit can lead to rapid cycling, inefficient energy use, and uneven cooling.

Conversely, a unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your space, working overtime and wearing down quicker. The key is to assess your home’s cooling needs, considering square footage, room heights, and sun exposure, to determine the most efficient size.

Control Sunlight and Heat Sources

Shade Your Windows: Strategically shade windows on the sunny side of your house using curtains or blinds to prevent excess heat from entering your home.

Cook Outdoors:

Embrace the summer season by taking your culinary adventures outdoors with a delightful BBQ, minimizing heat buildup indoors.

Opt for Air Drying:

Skip the dry cycle on your dishwasher and leave the door open to let dishes air dry naturally, reducing heat emissions within your home.

Time Your Laundry:

Avoid running the clothes dryer during the peak heat of the day to prevent unnecessary heat generation, opting for cooler times instead for laundry chores.

Energy-Saving Tips Beyond AC Maintenance

Enhancing Airflow and Circulation: Utilize ceiling or oscillating fans to distribute cooled air efficiently, allowing you to set the thermostat a bit higher without compromising comfort.

Reduce Internal Heat:

Minimize activities that generate a lot of heat, such as cooking on the stovetop or using the dryer, during the hottest parts of the day.

Use Window Treatments Efficiently:

Utilize blackout curtains or shades to block out the sun’s rays, significantly reducing the heat entering your home.

Seal Leaks:

Ensure that doors and windows are sealed properly to prevent cool air from escaping.

The temperature of cooling is in your hand

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