How’s summer 2022 treating everyone out here in southwest Florida? Staying cool enough?
We know it’s hot, and in Florida, hot weather is uncomfortable and expensive at best, and dangerous at worst.
Still, this is paradise, and Air America’s professional cooling experts are here to help you enjoy your summer without worrying about your AC system.
So in Sarasota summer of 2022, when we’re having excessive heat combined with supply chain issues that can delay AC repairs and replacements, here are a few tips from your local Sarasota-Bradenton HVAC experts to keep you cool.
Because our No. 1 priority is your comfort. Do what you can and don’t hesitate to give us a call for the rest.
Check Your Thermostat
Did you know that air temps are usually the warmest between noon and 4 p.m.? And we get our coolest temps just before dawn?
Your AC is going to be working its tail off in the middle of the day. Overnight should be a break for the AC system and for your energy bills.
Are you home during the day or is the house empty? Are you ever too cold at night?
If you’re one of us “Make it an igloo in here” people—and we are those people, too—experiment with bumping up the thermostat when you can. If you’re comfortable or a little chilly, see if you even notice when it’s set one degree warmer. And if you’ve got a programmable thermostat, make sure you’re taking advantage of those times when no one’s home to give your air conditioning a break.
Maximize Your Insulation
In the summertime, your home is a cozy, cool little oasis, and all that hot Florida weather just wants to get inside. There are a million places it will try to penetrate, but with a little bit of diligence, you can keep it at bay.
- Make sure windows are closed tight
- Draw your shades and curtains during the day
- Check that weatherstripping is still new and supple, not dry, rigid and/or cracking
- Do you see sunlight around your door jambs? Ensure doors close tightly.
- Skylights, chimneys, exhaust pipes and other home features can leak air, too. Make sure they’re sealed tight.
- Have an expert inspect your attic insulation to make sure it’s still doing its job. If it’s old, see if there’s a more efficient option on the market.
Clean Up Indoors and Out
Indoor air quality can be an overlooked aspect of AC efficiency and service. But when you’re going to be spending this much time inside, you want the air you breathe to be as clean and fresh as possible. And guess what: Your AC thrives on clean air, too.
To ensure you’re comfortable breathing the air circulating through your space, and to ensure your AC can keep that air pumping at max capacity, you need to remove dust, especially where it gathers and where it most interacts with your AC flow. That means cleaning your AC vents, and changing your AC unit’s air filter if you can. Trust us: These small chores can make a big difference in your comfort.
Outside, pollen, dirt and yard debris can interfere with your AC’s operations and even get pulled inside. Make sure you account for leaves and fallen branches, especially if they land directly on your unit. Sarasota-Bradenton’s summer storms pack a wallop, so do what you can when it’s sunny out, and clean up quickly afterwards.
Just remember: In this weather, you shouldn’t spend more than 30 minutes in direct sunlight. Have lots of water on hand from the second you start, and take frequent breaks.
Want more help on these or other tips or service, just give Sarasota’s air conditioning service experts a call!