When summer temperatures soar, your air conditioner becomes more than a luxury — it’s a necessity. But just when you need it most, extreme heat can push your system to its limits. At Glacier Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to help you understand the challenges your AC faces during peak heat and give you smart tips to improve efficiency — including how regular maintenance can make all the difference.
And if you are experiencing poor cooling performance, increased noise from your AC system and higher electric bills – it’s critical to get things checked out as quickly as possible.
Common AC Challenges During Extreme Heat
1. System Overload
In excessive heat, your AC has to work harder and longer to maintain your desired indoor temperature. This constant strain can lead to wear and tear, higher energy consumption, and in some cases, complete system failure.
2. Reduced Cooling Efficiency
High outdoor temperatures can make it harder for your unit to cool your home effectively — especially if your system isn’t properly maintained or is undersized for your space. You may notice your AC running non-stop without reaching the set temperature.
3. Frozen Coils
Ironically, your AC coils can freeze even during extreme heat. If the system is overworked and airflow is restricted (often due to dirty filters or low refrigerant), the evaporator coil can ice over — causing cooling issues or even system shutdown.
4. Thermostat Struggles
Your thermostat may struggle to keep up, especially during peak hours when the sun is blazing. This can lead to temperature fluctuations or constant adjustments that increase your energy bill.
Tips to Help Your AC Run More Efficiently in High Heat
Change Air Filters Regularly
A clogged filter reduces airflow and forces your system to work harder. Check your filters monthly and replace them at least every 1–3 months during heavy use.
Don’t Throttle Your Thermostat
Keeping it at a consistent temperature (even if at 72 degrees) is more efficient than changing it multiple times throughout the day.
Keep Curtains and Blinds Closed
Blocking direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and ease your AC’s workload.
Use Ceiling fans as they circulate the cool air your AC produces, distributing it more evenly throughout the room and eliminating hot spots.
Avoid using heat producing appliances during the hottest part of the day.
Clear Around the Outdoor Unit
Make sure there’s at least two feet of clearance around your outdoor condenser. Remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris to ensure proper airflow.
Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
A professional tune-up before the peak of summer can catch minor issues before they turn into costly breakdowns.
Maximize Performance with Glacier’s Maintenance Plan
The best way to protect your investment and stay cool all summer long? Enroll in Glacier Heating and Air Conditioning’s Maintenance Plan. Our plan includes:
- Seasonal tune-ups
- Priority scheduling
- Discounts on repairs
- Thorough system inspections
- Filter checks and replacements
By keeping your HVAC system in top shape year-round, you’ll not only reduce the risk of breakdowns during extreme heat — you’ll also boost efficiency, extend the life of your system, and save on energy costs.
