When Arizona’s summer heat hits full stride, it’s easy to feel like your air conditioner is working overtime. That’s probably because it is. But keeping your home cool shouldn’t come with sky-high energy bills, and a struggling system that needs costly AC repair in Casas Adobes, AZ.
With just a few simple adjustments, you can help your system run more efficiently and keep your home comfortable all season long. Here are our top AC efficiency tips to beat the Arizona heat while keeping your energy use in check.
1. Keep the Sun Out
One of the easiest ways to reduce the need for air conditioning is to block sunlight from streaming into your home. Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Consider investing in reflective shades, UV-blocking window film, or even planting shade trees where possible. Less sunlight means less heat building up inside so your AC doesn’t have to work as hard.
2. Seal Those Drafts
Even in the summer, leaky doors and windows can wreak havoc on your home’s energy efficiency. Warm air sneaking in through cracks forces your air conditioner to work harder. Weatherstripping, caulk, and proper insulation can go a long way toward keeping cool air in and hot air out.
3. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, but they make it feel cooler by moving it around. This lets you raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Just make sure your fans are rotating counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air down.
4. Program Your Thermostat—or Upgrade
One of the smartest ways to reduce AC use is by programming your thermostat to match your daily routine. If you’re still using an old manual thermostat, it may be time to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, helping you avoid unnecessary cooling when no one’s home, saving energy and money without you having to think about it.
5. Clean Air Filters Monthly
A dirty air filter restricts airflow and forces your AC to work harder. In Arizona’s dusty climate, we recommend checking and cleaning or replacing your air filter every month during the summer. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
6. Keep Coils Clean and Space Clear
Your outdoor AC unit needs room to breathe. Clear away any debris, leaves, or weeds around it, and make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Dirty coils can also reduce efficiency, so give them a rinse or schedule a professional cleaning to keep everything running smoothly.
7. Schedule Professional Maintenance
If you haven’t had your AC professionally serviced this year, don’t wait. A tune-up can catch small problems before they become big (and expensive) ones. Regular maintenance also keeps your system operating at peak performance and efficiency.
8. Watch for Signs of Trouble
Is your AC making strange noises, cycling on and off frequently, or failing to cool your home evenly? These can all be signs that something’s wrong. The sooner you call for AC repair, the better—because a struggling system uses more energy the longer the issue goes unresolved.
Need help? Our expert team is standing by to keep your AC running efficiently and your home cool all summer long. Don’t sweat it—give us a call today!
Contact Picture Rocks Cooling, Heating & Plumbing today with any questions or to schedule an appointment with our professionals.