5 Tips To Keeping Your AC Working All Summer Long

There are lots of things to love in Montgomery County, Texas about the summer time. Boating on Lake Conroe, family barbecues and pickleball, hiking, live music and more.  However, those scorching temperatures can quickly turn your home into an unbearable oven if your air conditioning isn’t up to the challenge. Keeping your AC system in peak condition is essential for truly enjoying all the fun that summer has to offer. After all, you’ll need a cool, comfortable retreat from the heat after a day spent hiking trails or soaking up rays at an outdoor concert. To ensure your sanctuary stays breezy all season long, follow these five essential tips for maintaining your air conditioning unit. With a little preventative care, you can sit back and savor the joys of summer without getting roasted.

Summer HVAC Service In Montgomery, Spring, Tomball, Conroe, & Surrounding Areas

Schedule Regular AC Tune-Ups

 One of the most effective ways to ensure your air conditioning system is prepared for the intense heat of summer is to schedule a professional tune-up before the hot weather arrives. At Maner Heating & Cooling, our comprehensive AC tune-up service includes a thorough inspection, cleaning, and adjustment of all key components to optimize performance and efficiency.

During a tune-up, our skilled technicians will:

– Inspect condenser and coils to ensure proper functionality: The condenser and evaporator coils are critical components of your AC system. The condenser coil releases heat from the refrigerant, while the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air inside your home. Over time, these coils can become dirty or corroded, reducing their ability to transfer heat effectively. During a tune-up, our technicians will thoroughly inspect the coils to ensure they’re operating at peak efficiency.

– Check the thermostat for accurate temperature control: Your thermostat is the brain of your AC system, controlling when and how long the unit runs. If the thermostat is not calibrated correctly or is malfunctioning, it can cause your AC to run longer than necessary or fail to cool your home adequately. Our technicians will test your thermostat to ensure it’s accurately sensing the temperature and sending the proper signals to your AC unit.

– Ensure no wires are exposed: Loose, frayed, or exposed wiring can be a serious safety hazard and can cause your AC unit to malfunction. During a tune-up, our technicians will carefully inspect all the electrical connections and wiring to ensure everything is secure and properly insulated. This not only helps prevent breakdowns but also protects your home and family from potential electrical fires.

– Test the capacitors and contactors for reliability: Capacitors and contactors are essential electrical components that help start and run your AC unit’s motors. Over time, these parts can weaken or fail, causing your system to work harder or not turn on at all. Our technicians will test these components using specialized equipment to ensure they’re functioning properly and replace them if necessary.

– Clean or replace the air filters to maximize airflow: Air filters play a crucial role in both the efficiency and air quality of your AC system. When filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, it restricts airflow and makes your unit work harder to circulate cool air throughout your home. This not only puts extra strain on your system but also allows allergens and pollutants to circulate through your living space. During a tune-up, our technicians will clean or replace your filters as needed to ensure optimal airflow and air quality.

– Measure the refrigerant charge and adjust if needed: Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system, absorbing heat from the air inside your home and releasing it outside. If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak or other issue, it can significantly reduce its cooling capacity and efficiency. Our technicians will measure the refrigerant charge using precision gauges and add more if needed to restore proper operation. They’ll also check for any signs of leaks and repair them to prevent future issues.

By identifying and correcting minor issues before they become major problems, regular AC tune-ups can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs during the summer months. Plus, a well-maintained air conditioner operates more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly energy bills. It’s already getting hot, but it’s not too late to schedule your AC tune-up today in Montgomery, Tomball, Spring, Conroe, Magnolia, and Willis!

Embrace Preventative Maintenance

In addition to annual tune-ups, ongoing preventative maintenance is crucial to keeping your AC system in top shape. By enrolling in Maner Heating & Cooling’s Maintenance Membership Plan, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with regular checkups, priority service, and discounted repairs.

Our maintenance plan includes:

– Two comprehensive tune-ups per year: With our plan, you’ll receive two thorough tune-ups each year – one in the spring to prepare for summer and one in the fall to get ready for winter. This consistent maintenance schedule helps ensure that your system is always operating at its best and can identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

– 15% discount on any necessary repairs: Even with regular maintenance, repairs may still be necessary from time to time. As a member of our maintenance plan, you’ll receive a 15% discount on any repairs your system may need. This can add up to significant savings over time, especially if you have an older unit that may require more frequent repairs.

– 5% discount on equipment replacements: If your AC unit does eventually need to be replaced, our maintenance plan members receive a 5% discount on new equipment. This can make a big difference in the overall cost of upgrading to a new, more efficient system. Plus, with regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your current unit and delay the need for replacement as long as possible.

-We call you to schedule: When it’s time for your AC tune-up, we will call you. That’s right! You don’t have to hassle with remembering all the dates to keep your AC unit running in top shape. We’ll reach out to schedule your appointment so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

– Transferable to any home within our service area: If you move to a new home within our service area, your maintenance plan can move with you. This means you can continue enjoying the benefits of regular maintenance and discounts, even if you relocate. This added flexibility is just one more way we strive to provide exceptional value to our customers.

– Priority service: As a maintenance plan member, you’ll receive priority service when you need repairs or other assistance. This means that when you call with an issue, you’ll be placed at the front of the line for scheduling, ensuring that your problem is addressed as quickly as possible. In the heat of a Texas summer, this priority service can be a lifesaver when your AC unit is on the fritz.

With professional maintenance from our experienced technicians, you can rest assured that your air conditioner will be ready to handle whatever the Texas summer throws at it.

Change Your Air Filters Regularly

One of the simplest yet most important things you can do to ease the strain on your AC unit is to replace the air filters on a consistent basis. When filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, it restricts airflow and makes your system work harder to circulate cool air throughout your home.

Depending on the type of filter you use and the conditions in your home (such as pets or allergies), you should change your filters every 30 to 90 days. Set a reminder on your phone or mark it on your calendar to stay on top of this essential task. Not only will regular filter changes lighten the load on your AC, but they’ll also improve your indoor air quality.

There are several types of air filters available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:

– Fiberglass filters: These are the most basic and inexpensive filters, made from spun fiberglass material. While they can capture large particles like dust and lint, they’re not as effective at filtering out smaller particles like pollen or pet dander. Fiberglass filters typically need to be replaced every 30 days.

– Pleated filters: Pleated filters are made from polyester or cotton fabric that’s folded into pleats to increase the surface area for filtration. They’re more effective than fiberglass filters at capturing smaller particles and typically last 60 to 90 days before needing replacement.

– High-efficiency filters: These filters, such as HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters, are designed to capture very small particles like smoke, bacteria, and viruses. They’re often used in homes with allergies or respiratory issues but may restrict airflow more than other types of filters. High-efficiency filters usually need to be replaced every 60 to 90 days.

– Washable filters: Some filters are made from materials that can be washed and reused multiple times. These filters are more environmentally friendly and can save money over time but require more frequent cleaning (usually monthly) to maintain their effectiveness.

When choosing a filter for your home, consider factors like your budget, the size of your AC unit, and any specific air quality needs you may have. Our technicians can help you select the best filter for your system and provide guidance on how often to change it based on your individual circumstances.

Use Ceiling Fans and Other Cooling Strategies During the Heat of The Summer

While your air conditioner is the star of the show when it comes to keeping your home comfortable, it doesn’t have to work alone. Incorporating other cooling strategies can help reduce the burden on your AC system and lower your energy costs.

One of the most effective ways to supplement your air conditioning is to use ceiling fans in occupied rooms. By circulating the cool air more effectively, ceiling fans can make a room feel several degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting a bit without sacrificing comfort. 

Ceiling fans work by creating a wind chill effect, which makes you feel cooler by evaporating sweat from your skin. This means that ceiling fans don’t actually lower the temperature of the room, but rather make you feel more comfortable at a higher temperature. When used in conjunction with your AC system, ceiling fans can allow you to raise your thermostat setting by 3-4 degrees without sacrificing comfort. This small change can lead to significant energy savings over the course of the summer.

When using ceiling fans, it’s important to remember a few key tips:

– Make sure the fan is rotating counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes cool air down, creating the wind chill effect. In the winter, switch the direction to clockwise to help distribute warm air without creating a noticeable breeze.

– Adjust the fan speed based on your comfort level. Higher speeds will create a stronger wind chill effect, while lower speeds will provide gentler circulation.

– Turn off the fan when you leave the room. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, so leaving them on in unoccupied spaces is a waste of energy.

Other cooling tactics include:

– Closing blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun’s heat.  Pro tip- tilt the blades of your blinds all the way up in the summer to keep the sun out, and down in the winter to let extra warmth in!

Blocking out the sun’s heat can make a significant difference in how hard your AC unit has to work to keep your home cool. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, closing your blinds or drapes can reduce heat gain by up to 45%. This is especially important for windows that face south or west, which receive the most direct sunlight.

When choosing window coverings for energy efficiency, consider these factors:

– Reflectivity: Light-colored, reflective blinds or shades can help reflect more of the sun’s heat away from your home.

– Insulation: Cellular shades or insulated curtains can provide an extra layer of insulation to help keep heat out in the summer and in during the winter.

– Opacity: The more opaque the window covering, the more effectively it will block out light and heat. Blackout curtains or shades are a good choice for bedrooms or media rooms where you want maximum darkness and cool temperatures.

Remember, the goal is to keep as much of the sun’s heat outside as possible, so it’s best to close your window coverings before the sun hits the windows in the morning and keep them closed during the hottest part of the day. You can open them again in the evening when the sun is lower in the sky and temperatures start to cool down.

– Using heat-generating appliances (like the oven or dryer) in the evening when it’s cooler, or use an airfryer, instant pot, or other small but mighty appliance. 

Appliances like ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers generate a lot of heat when in use, which can make your AC system work harder to keep your home cool. By using these appliances in the evening when outdoor temperatures are lower, you can minimize their impact on your indoor temperature and give your AC a break.

Alternatively, consider using smaller, more efficient appliances that generate less heat. For example:

– Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food crispy and delicious, but with less heat than a traditional oven. They’re also more energy-efficient and can save you time in the kitchen.

– Instant pots and pressure cookers use steam and pressure to cook food quickly, with less energy and heat than stovetop cooking. They’re great for making soups, stews, and other one-pot meals without heating up the whole kitchen.

– Slow cookers are another energy-efficient option that generates minimal heat. You can prep your ingredients in the morning, let them cook all day, and come home to a delicious, cool kitchen and a ready-to-eat meal.

When you do need to use your oven or stovetop, try to keep cooking times as short as possible and use the exhaust fan to help remove heat and humidity from the kitchen. You can also consider cooking outside on a grill or outdoor kitchen setup to keep the heat out of your house entirely.

– Grilling outside instead of cooking indoors to keep excess heat out of your home

Outdoor grilling is a summer staple for many Montgomery County families, and it’s not just because of the delicious smoky flavors. Grilling outside can also help keep your home cooler by moving the heat of cooking outside.

When you cook indoors, the heat and humidity generated by your stove or oven can raise the temperature of your kitchen and surrounding areas, making your AC work harder to compensate. By grilling outside, you eliminate this extra heat source and allow your AC to focus on cooling the rest of your home.

Grilling is also a great way to entertain guests during the summer without overloading your AC system. Instead of having everyone gather in your kitchen or living room, you can move the party outside where there’s plenty of fresh air and space to spread out.

If you don’t have an outdoor grill or prefer not to use one, consider cooking meals that don’t require the stove or oven. Cold salads, sandwiches, and no-cook dishes like gazpacho or ceviche can be refreshing and satisfying on a hot summer day, without generating any extra heat in your home.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

If you’re still using an old, manual thermostat, you could be placing unnecessary strain on your air conditioning system. Upgrading to a smart, programmable thermostat can help optimize your AC’s performance and reduce energy waste.

With a smart thermostat, you can set a schedule that automatically adjusts the temperature based on your daily routines and habits. For example, you can program the thermostat to raise the temperature a few degrees while you’re away at work, then cool things back down just before you return home. This way, your AC unit isn’t working overtime to cool an empty house. 

Smart thermostats offer several advantages over traditional models:

– Remote access: Most smart thermostats can be controlled from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, allowing you to adjust the temperature from anywhere. This means you can cool down your house before you get home from work, or turn off the AC if you forgot to do so before leaving for vacation.

– Learning capabilities: Some smart thermostats, like the Nest Learning Thermostat, use artificial intelligence to learn your temperature preferences and habits over time. They can automatically create a custom schedule based on when you typically wake up, leave for work, return home, and go to bed, optimizing your energy usage without any extra programming on your part.

– Energy reports: Many smart thermostats provide detailed energy reports that show you how much energy you’re using and when. This can help you identify opportunities to save energy and money by making small adjustments to your temperature settings or schedule.

– Compatibility with other smart home devices: Some smart thermostats can integrate with other smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. This allows you to control your thermostat with voice commands or as part of a larger smart home automation setup.

When choosing a smart thermostat, consider factors like compatibility with your HVAC system, ease of use, and the specific features that are important to you. Our technicians can help you select and install the best smart thermostat for your needs, ensuring that it’s properly calibrated and programmed for optimal performance.

Keeping Cool During The Summer with Maner Heating & Cooling

At Maner Heating & Cooling, we know how brutal the Texas summer heat can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping our Montgomery County friends and neighbors stay cool and comfortable all season long with our expert AC services. From tune-ups and maintenance to repairs and installations, our skilled technicians have the knowledge and experience to keep your air conditioner running at peak performance.

In addition to the tips we’ve covered here, there are a few other things you can do to help your AC run more efficiently and effectively:

– Make sure your outdoor unit is clear of debris and has plenty of space for airflow. Trim back any plants or shrubs that may be blocking the unit, and avoid storing objects like lawn equipment or furniture nearby.

– Consider adding insulation to your attic or walls to help keep cool air inside and hot air outside. This can reduce the workload on your AC system and help you save on energy bills.

– If your AC unit is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. Newer units are much more energy-efficient than older models, and can often pay for themselves in energy savings over time. Our team can help you evaluate your options and choose the best system for your home and budget.

At Maner Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help with all your air conditioning needs. Whether you need a routine tune-up, a quick repair, or a full system replacement, our team of experienced professionals is ready to serve you. 

Don’t let the summer strain get the best of your AC unit. Contact Maner Heating & Cooling today to schedule your tune-up, enroll in our maintenance plan, or explore our other cooling solutions.

Call us at 936-444-5627 or visit our website to request service online. With Maner on your side, you can beat the heat with confidence.

Read our next blog on Ultimate Guide To Replacing Your Air Conditioner Near You.