Surviving the Heat: How to Keep Your AC Running Efficiently During a Heatwave

When summer temperatures in St. Louis soar, your air conditioner becomes your best defense against extreme heat. However, prolonged high temperatures can strain your AC system, causing it to work harder and increasing the risk of breakdowns. To avoid unexpected failures and high energy bills, it is essential to understand how to keep your AC running efficiently during a heatwave.

Read on to learn more tips for keeping your AC running efficiently from our heating and air conditioning experts. To learn more or schedule air conditioner repair services to keep your AC running all summer long, contact us today.

How Extreme Heat Affects Your AC System

During a heatwave, your air conditioner faces several challenges that can impact its efficiency and performance:

Increased workload – As outdoor temperatures rise, your AC must work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor climate.
Reduced cooling capacity – High humidity and excessive heat can make it more difficult for your AC to remove warm air effectively.
Higher energy consumption – Your unit may run longer cycles, leading to increased energy usage and higher utility bills.
Potential system overheating – Overworked AC components, such as the compressor and condenser, may overheat and fail.

Understanding these challenges can help you take proactive steps to maintain efficiency and prevent costly repairs.

Tips for Keeping Your AC Running Efficiently During a Heatwave

1. Change or Clean Your Air Filters

Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder. During peak summer months, check your air filters every two weeks and replace them as needed. Clean filters improve airflow, reduce energy consumption, and help maintain indoor air quality.

2. Optimize Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat too low can overwork your AC and increase energy costs. To keep your AC running efficiently, instead:

Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust temperatures automatically.
Avoid drastic temperature changes, which can strain the system.

3. Improve Home Insulation

Proper insulation helps reduce heat transfer and keeps cool air inside your home. To enhance insulation:

Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block out sunlight.
Seal gaps and cracks around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping.
Use ceiling fans to circulate air and reduce the strain on your AC.

4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

Your AC’s condenser unit needs proper airflow to function efficiently. Ensure:

The area around the outdoor unit is free of debris, leaves, and vegetation.
The condenser coils are cleaned at least once a year to remove dirt buildup.
The unit is shaded but not obstructed to allow proper heat dissipation.

5. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is crucial to keeping your air conditioner running efficiently. Professional AC tune-ups include:

Checking refrigerant levels
Inspecting electrical components
Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
Ensuring proper airflow and system efficiency

Regular air conditioner maintenance can help detect potential issues early and prevent unexpected breakdowns during peak summer months.

Common AC Repairs Needed During Extreme Heat

Even with proper maintenance, some AC units may experience problems during a heatwave. Here are common air conditioner problems and issues that require AC repair:

Frozen evaporator coils – An air conditioner freezing up is caused by restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels.
Overheated compressor – Can lead to system shutdown and potential damage.
Capacitor failure – Results in the AC unit not starting or running properly.
Refrigerant leaks – Leads to decreased cooling efficiency and potential system failure.
Thermostat malfunctions – Prevents the AC from cycling properly.

If you notice any of these issues, it is essential to contact an HVAC professional immediately to prevent further damage and restore cooling efficiency to keep your ac running efficiently.

FAQs About AC Efficiency in Extreme Heat

Why is my AC running but not cooling my home?

Your AC may be struggling due to dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, or an overworked system. Try changing the filter and checking for airflow issues. If the problem persists, schedule an AC inspection.

How often should I service my AC to keep it efficient?

It is recommended to schedule professional AC maintenance at least once a year, ideally before summer begins, to ensure optimal performance.

Can extreme heat cause my AC to break down?

Yes, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can overwork your AC, leading to compressor failure, refrigerant leaks, and other mechanical issues.

Is it normal for my AC to run all day during a heatwave?

Yes, during extreme heat, your AC may run longer cycles to maintain indoor comfort. However, if it struggles to cool effectively, there may be an underlying issue that needs attention.

Call Galmiche & Sons for Expert AC Repair in St. Louis

If your AC is struggling to keep up with the summer heat, Galmiche & Sons is here to help. Our expert technicians provide professional AC maintenance and repair services to keep your cooling system running efficiently, even in extreme temperatures. Contact us today to schedule an HVAC maintenance or service appointment and ensure your home stays comfortable all summer long!