Beat the Heat
A heat wave is a period of abnormally hot weather that can last for several days or even weeks. It often involves unusually high temperatures which can pose significant risks to human health, infrastructure and the environment. One of the primary defenses against extreme heat is your home’s cooling system. Staying indoors, particularly for young children and the elderly, is often the safest choice. That's why it's crucial to ensure your air conditioner is prepared and functioning well. A heat wave can be a real stressor, both for you and your air conditioner. When temperatures soar, your AC works overtime to keep your home cool. To ensure it's up to the task, here are some essential steps to prepare your AC for a heat wave.
1. Professional Maintenance
Schedule a tune-up: Before the heat wave hits, have a professional technician inspect and service your AC. They can clean filters, check refrigerant levels, and identify any potential issues. Remember, regular maintenance and attention to detail can go a long way in preventing breakdowns and ensuring optimal performance.
Address maintenance issues: If your technician finds any problems, complete AC repairs promptly to prevent breakdowns during the heat wave.
2. Clean and Maintain
Clean filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder and potentially leading to overheating and breakdowns. Check and clean or replace filters regularly.
Clear outdoor unit: Remove any debris, such as leaves or grass clippings, from around the outdoor unit. This helps ensure proper airflow and prevents overheating.
3. Check for Leaks
Inspect for leaks: Look for signs of water leaks around the indoor and outdoor units. Leaks can indicate problems with the refrigerant or drainage system.
Call a professional: If you notice any leaks, give us a call to schedule an AC repair appointment.
4. Set the Right Temperature
Avoid extreme settings: When the temperature soars, don’t rely solely on your air conditioner to handle the entire load. Setting your AC too low can strain the system and increase energy consumption. Aim for a comfortable temperature, around 75-78°F.
Use fans: Running ceiling fans can help circulate cool air and make your home feel cooler, allowing you to set your AC at a higher temperature.
5. Reduce Heat Gain
Close curtains and blinds: During the hottest parts of the day, close curtains and blinds to prevent sunlight from entering your home and heating it up.
Seal air leaks: Caulk around windows and doors to seal any air leaks that can let in hot outside air.
Avoid heat generating appliances: Appliances such as your stove, oven, and dryer add heat to your home. Avoid using these appliances during the hottest parts of the day, by using them early morning or later in the evening instead.
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air
Preparing for a heat wave involves a combination of proactive planning, understanding the risks, and taking practical steps to safeguard your home and health. By staying informed about weather forecasts, ensuring your cooling systems are in top condition, and following these tips, you can help ensure your AC is ready to handle the heatwave and keep your home cool and comfortable. As part of your preparation, consider scheduling an annual air conditioning maintenance with LA Construction, Heating and Air. Regular maintenance not only ensures your system runs efficiently during peak times but also helps extend its lifespan, giving you peace of mind when you need it most. Contact us today to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.
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