As the seasons change, people across the nation must face the possibility of extreme temperatures that put a strain on their home heating and cooling systems. Extreme heat can cause air conditioning units to operate less efficiently, push up home energy bills, and even lead to long-term damage of home cooling systems. Here are three effects of extreme heat on your home air conditioning system and advice about how to tackle them.
1. Insufficient Cooling Capacity
Home air conditioning systems have a limited cooling capacity. In a home that is poorly insulated, heat might leak into the building faster than the air conditioner can work to bring down the indoor temperature. If the unit is already running at maximum capacity, turning the thermostat down will not help.
If your home gets unbearably warm in summer, keep the blinds or curtains closed to reduce the heating effects of direct sunlight. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and wear loose clothes made from light fabric. If there are members of your family who are vulnerable to heatstroke, such as elderly people, babies, or pets with thick fur, take them to a public place with air conditioning during the hottest part of the day to protect them.
2. Reduced Energy Efficiency
If you struggle to afford the cost of cooling your home in summer, you are not alone. When air conditioners are forced to battle against temperatures outside their normal operating range, they become less efficient, causing costs to spiral.
Investing in some basic home improvements can reduce the ongoing cost of running your air conditioning system. Adding insulation and sealing up gaps around windows and doors are two actions you can take to help keep cool air trapped inside your home. When your home is better insulated, your air conditioner can work more efficiently to keep you cool all summer long.
3. Increased Wear and Tear
Running at maximum capacity for an extended period can cause damage to a home air conditioning system. To prevent your air conditioner breaking down during a heatwave, schedule a tune up at the beginning of summer to ensure that all parts are in good working order.
It is also a good idea to clean the filters regularly, as they can quickly become clogged when your air conditioning system is working hard. If you do not know how to access or maintain the filters, call an air conditioning repair service for help.