How to Keep Your AC Efficient During Summer
Beat the Texas Heat Without Breaking the Bank
Welcome to the scorching summer season in Texas! When temperatures climb, your air conditioner becomes the most valuable appliance in your home.
At Cool Aid Air Conditioning, we’ve spent over 20 years helping families in Edinburg and surrounding areas stay comfortable during the hottest months.
Keeping your AC running efficiently isn’t just about staying cool—it’s about saving money, extending your system’s life, and avoiding those emergency breakdowns that always seem to happen on the hottest day of the year. Let’s explore how you can keep your cooling system working at its best this summer.
Why AC Efficiency Matters in South Texas
Living in Edinburg and the Rio Grande Valley means dealing with intense heat and humidity. When your air conditioner isn’t working efficiently, you’ll notice immediately—both in your comfort level and in your wallet.
Inefficient systems work harder and longer to cool your home, resulting in higher electric bills and more wear and tear on components.
An AC unit struggling against our South Texas heat is also more likely to break down when you need it most. Maintaining peak efficiency helps you avoid those uncomfortable, sweltering days waiting for emergency repairs during the summer rush.
Simple DIY Maintenance Tips
You don’t need to be an HVAC expert to perform some basic maintenance that can greatly improve your AC’s efficiency. Here are some simple tasks you can handle yourself:
Regularly Change Air Filters
The simplest yet most effective maintenance task is changing your air filters regularly. During heavy use summer months, check your filter monthly and replace it when it looks dirty. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and use more energy. If you have pets or allergies, you might need to change filters even more frequently.
Keep Outdoor Unit Clear
Your AC’s outdoor unit needs proper airflow to release heat. Make sure there’s at least two feet of clear space around the unit. Remove leaves, twigs, and debris that collect on and around it. Trim back shrubs and vegetation that might block airflow.
Optimize Thermostat Settings
Set your thermostat to around 78 degrees when you’re home. Each degree below that can increase your energy use by 6-8%. When you’re away, allow the temperature to rise to 85 degrees. A programmable thermostat can make these adjustments automatically.
Use Ceiling Fans Strategically
Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they make you feel cooler by creating a wind-chill effect. Running ceiling fans allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher while maintaining comfort. Remember to turn fans off when leaving the room, as they cool people, not spaces.
Close Blinds During Peak Heat
Keep blinds and curtains closed, especially on windows that receive direct sunlight. This simple step prevents your home from heating up like a greenhouse and forces your AC to work overtime.
Professional Maintenance Recommendations
While DIY maintenance is important, professional service is essential for keeping your AC working at peak efficiency. Here’s what you should know:
Annual Professional Tune-ups
Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your AC needs annual check-ups. Professional maintenance catches small problems before they become big ones and ensures all components are working properly. Our technicians at Cool Aid Air Conditioning perform comprehensive inspections and tuning that go far beyond what homeowners can do themselves.
What Professional Maintenance Includes
When you schedule a maintenance visit with Cool Aid Air Conditioning, our licensed technicians will:
- Clean or replace filters
- Inspect and clean evaporator and condenser coils
- Check refrigerant levels
- Test thermostat operation
- Check electrical connections
- Lubricate moving parts
- Inspect ductwork for leaks
- Clean drain lines
Best Time for Maintenance
Schedule your AC maintenance in early spring, before the summer heat arrives. This ensures your system is ready when you need it most and helps you avoid the peak season rush when technicians are busiest with emergency calls.
Signs Your AC System Needs Professional Attention
Even with regular maintenance, sometimes your AC needs professional help. Watch for these warning signs:
Poor Airflow
If you notice weak airflow from your vents, this could indicate clogged filters, duct problems, or a failing fan motor.
System Not Cooling Properly
When your AC runs constantly but doesn’t cool your home, there could be several causes: low refrigerant, dirty coils, or a compressor problem.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds aren’t normal. These noises often signal mechanical problems that need immediate attention.
Higher Utility Bills
A sudden increase in your electric bill (without corresponding usage changes) often means your AC is working harder than it should be.
Strange Odors
Musty smells might indicate mold in your ductwork, while burning odors could signal electrical issues that require immediate attention.
Energy-Saving Tips for Summer
Beyond maintenance, these strategies can help reduce your cooling costs:
Optimal Thermostat Settings
The smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling bill. Find the highest comfortable temperature setting and stick with it.
Programmable Thermostat Benefits
Programmable thermostats automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule. Some smart models learn your preferences and make energy-saving adjustments automatically.
Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Cool air can escape and hot air can enter through gaps around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these leaks.
Use Ceiling Fans Correctly
Make sure your ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise in summer to push air down, creating a cooling effect.
Minimize Heat-Generating Activities
Cook outdoors when possible and run appliances like dishwashers and dryers during cooler evening hours to reduce indoor heat.
When to Consider an AC Replacement
Sometimes replacement is more cost-effective than continuing to repair an aging system:
Age Factors
Most AC units last 10-15 years. If yours is approaching this age range and having problems, replacement may be more economical than repairs.
Efficiency Ratings
Newer AC units have much higher efficiency ratings than older models. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating indicates efficiency—the higher the number, the more efficient the unit.
Cost Benefits of Newer Systems
While a new system requires upfront investment, the energy savings can be substantial. Many homeowners see 20-40% reductions in cooling costs with new, high-efficiency systems.
Signs It’s Time to Replace
Consider replacement if your AC:
- Needs frequent repairs
- Uses R-22 refrigerant (being phased out)
- Can’t keep your home comfortable
- Has repair costs exceeding 50% of replacement cost
How Cool Aid Air Conditioning Can Help
As your local HVAC experts, we’re here to help with all your cooling needs:
Comprehensive Services
We offer complete AC services including maintenance, repair, and new installations. Our team is qualified to work on all makes and models of air conditioning equipment.
Experienced Professionals
Our licensed and insured technicians bring over 20 years of experience to every job. We understand the specific cooling challenges of Edinburg and surrounding areas.
Customer-First Approach
As a family-owned business, we treat our customers like neighbors—because they are! We provide clear explanations, fair pricing, and work that lasts.
Free Service Call With Work Performed
We offer a FREE service call with any work performed, meaning you only pay for the actual repairs or maintenance needed.
Stay Cool and Save Money All Summer Long
Keeping your air conditioner running efficiently during summer isn’t just about comfort—it’s about saving money and avoiding the stress of unexpected breakdowns.
By following these maintenance tips and partnering with a reliable HVAC company like Cool Aid Air Conditioning, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home all summer long.
Don’t wait until your AC stops working on the hottest day of the year. Take proactive steps now to ensure efficient operation all season.
For professional maintenance, repairs, or to discuss upgrading to a more efficient system, contact Cool Aid Air Conditioning at 956-784-2496. Our team is ready to help you beat the Edinburg heat!
