With temperatures surpassing 90 degrees consistently, you might find your Jersey Shore home’s HVAC system struggling to meet the temperature you’ve set the thermostat to. No need to panic, your AC is likely doing the best it can! During these periods of peak heat, your
system will likely:
– Run consistently without stopping
– Struggle to meet your desired temperature.
If you’re really not sure if there is a serious issue with your system, the best way to tell is by feeling the air coming from the registers around your home. If it’s cold or even cooler than the air in the rest of the room, chances are it’s doing the best it can.
If you have a thermometer nearby, check the temperature of the supply air. If it’s between 15- 20 degrees lower than the outside temperature, the system is doing the best it can. For example, if it’s 100 degrees outside and your system can only make it down to 78 degrees, it’s
actually doing better than the expectation of a local, family-owned HVAC company like Rostron Premium Home Services.
We can all use a little boost now and then, though. Take a look at some of these best practices to keep your unit running at peak efficiency and to avoid the heat:
Top 7 Ways to Not Feel the Burn
#7: DRAW CURTAINS/BLINDS
The outside summer sun beaming into your home will raise temperatures inside. While you may want to soak up some summer sun from the great indoors, we recommend you cover windows to prevent an unintended rise in temperature in your home.
#6: UTILIZE FANS
From ceiling fans to standing fans, your HVAC system will thank you for the relief they bring. Fans will not physically lower the temperature in your Jersey Shore home, but they can circulate the air in your home, giving your system a breath of fresh air (literally). Still air will also feel
much warmer than that which is moving.
#5: LEAVE YOUR THERMOSTAT AT THE DESIRED TEMPERATURE
Your first thought when you hear your AC system running continuously might be to shut it off to “give it a break.” By doing so, you’re allowing the heat and humidity to enter your Jersey Shore home. When you do decide to turn it will have trouble climbing back down to the temperature that is most comfortable for you.
#4: STAY HYDRATED
It may sound unrelated, but dehydration can make heat and humidity feel much worse than it is. Even if you aren’t thirsty, it’s best to drink water continuously throughout the day. Yes, lemonade and iced tea counts, too!
#3: CHECK YOUR FILTER
Your system is working, but it’s still struggling to meet temperature. Take a moment to check on the filter in your Jersey Shore home. One that is free of pet hair and dust is best for airflow, giving your system yet another advantage against the excessive heat!
#2: OPEN DOORS IN YOUR HOME
Closing doors and registers to rooms you aren’t using may be a logical choice to cooling the areas you are using, but shrinking your home’s square footage is not a great idea. Your system and ductwork was designed to provide and carry the proper amount of airflow to your entire
home, not just a portion of it. Shutting vents and cordoning off rooms can result in your system short-cycling or even turning off on a high-limit fault. When the airflow isn’t adequate, your system can’t do its job properly.
#1: MEAL PLAN
Summer is all about the BBQ, right? During periods of high heat, it’s best to avoid using appliances that generate heat inside your home, like ovens or stoves. Grilling outdoors is a great option to keep the heat outside. Looking to kill two birds with one stone? A nice, fresh salad can also be hydrating!
System Not Cooling at All?
If your system isn’t cooling at all, the first step is to turn the unit off, either at the thermostat or the emergency switch, to prevent any kind of frozen components. Rostron Premium Home Services offers cooling, heating, plumbing and electric services to Monmouth and Ocean County, New Jersey. Give us a call at 732-223-8221 or fill out a form right here on our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
