Virginia’s Recent Heat Wave
Summer 2024 has been hot. We even experienced a heat wave. While not the most extreme heat wave predicted, there were reports of widespread highs in the 90s, with some areas reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This was a significant increase from normal highs in the mid-80s.
The heat wave lasted for over a week, with the hottest days between June 21 and 24. Many localities issued advisories and opened cooling centers for residents.
A key safety recommendation during heat waves and hot weather is to use your air conditioning system if you have one. In this blog, we will discuss how to assess your air conditioner’s performance and what to do to maximize the system’s performance in summer weather.
Evaluating Your AC’s Performance
To self-evaluate your AC’s efficiency, you can take the following steps:
- Power on your AC unit and allow it to run for at least 15 minutes on a hot day. This ensures the system is under load and operating at full capacity.
- Use a digital thermometer to measure the air temperature at a supply register close to the air handler. After five minutes, record this temperature.
- Next, take a temperature reading at a return air vent.
- Subtract the initial supply register temperature from the return vent temperature.
A temperature difference of 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit indicates efficient operation. A lower differential (less than 14 degrees Fahrenheit) suggests potential issues like clogged filters, low refrigerant levels, or airflow restrictions, warranting professional inspection.
What You Can Do to Maximize Your AC Performance
As scorching summer temperatures arrive, your air conditioner faces its toughest challenge. However, there are steps you can take to improve your AC’s efficiency and keep your home cool and comfortable.
Some key strategies to maximize your air conditioner's performance during hot weather involve:
- Maintaining a clean air filter. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and use more energy. Check and clean your air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations, typically once or twice a month.
- Adjusting your thermostat strategically. While it's tempting to crank the thermostat down to escape the heat, even a small increase in temperature can significantly reduce energy consumption. Aim for a setting around 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you're at home and raise it a few degrees higher when you're away or sleeping.
- Minimizing heat indoors. Block direct sunlight with curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day. This prevents heat from radiating into your living space and reduces the workload on your AC.
- Closing windows and doors. While you may want fresh air, it is not a good idea to leave your doors and windows open. In doing so, you are letting cool air leave your home and asking your AC to overwork and try to keep up with the warm air coming in from outside.
- Optimizing airflow. Ensure furniture and other objects aren't obstructing vents or the return air registers. Keep the outdoor condenser unit free from debris like leaves and branches to maintain proper airflow.
- Utilizing ceiling fans. Ceiling fans set counterclockwise create a wind chill effect, enhancing comfort and allowing you to raise the thermostat slightly. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off in unoccupied spaces.
By following these tips, you can ensure your air conditioner runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the hot summer months, keeping your home cool and comfortable without overtaxing your energy bills.
Let Us Help Improve Your HVAC Efficiency
Whether you need a routine maintenance inspection or an AC repair service, Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is ready to help. For over 30 years, we have been providing quality service at affordable rates. Known for treating our customers with respect, we are also trusted because we hold NATE certification.
Schedule an AC service today by calling (703) 457-8676 or using our online form.