Here’s How to Keep Cool Air Inside Your Home

Perform Regular AC Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your air conditioner and save you money on your electricity bills. Before the temperatures start rising, it’s a good idea to follow some basic AC maintenance tips to prepare for the heat:

• Turn off the power to your AC unit before attempting any maintenance or repairs

• Inspect the outside condenser unit and remove the cover to carefully clean out any debris

• Make sure your condenser unit is level to keep the compressor operating properly Check for cracks or wear in the insulation around the refrigerant line as it can affect your AC’s efficiency

• Change or clean your furnace filter to prevent clogs from overworking your air conditioner

• Book a professional AC maintenance tune-up to keep your unit running smoothly and reduce the risk of costly future repairs

Install a Duct Booster

Sometimes hard-to-cool spaces can use a boost. Installing a duct booster can help increase airflow by pumping air through the ductwork in your home. There are two types of duct booster fans available: inline booster fans and register fans. An inline duct booster is installed in a section of ductwork. Some inline boosters can be easily plugged in while others will require professional installation. A register duct booster can be installed at the vent in each room and is often a more cost-effective option when you’re only looking to boost airflow to one specific space.

Additional Tips to Keep Your Home Cool

• Keep window blinds and curtains closed during the day, especially on windows that receive direct sunlight

• Run your washing machine, dishwasher and other heat-producing major appliances in the evening instead of the day whenever possible

• Turn on your bathroom and range hood exhaust fans to help quickly cool down areas where showering and cooking have caused increased heat and humidity

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated: you’ll feel cooler and it will help offset balance any potential dehydrating effects from a constantly running air conditioner

• Turn off the stove and consider salads and BBQs as cooler alternatives to oven-cooked meals in the heat of summer

• Tuck yourself into breathable sheets made from natural fibers like linen, cotton, or percale for moisture-wicking comfort on hot summer nights

An air conditioner can help turn your home into a comfortable haven in the heat of summer. But it doesn’t have to do it alone. There are many ways you can maximize the power of your air conditioner to help cool your home. With a little forethought and some basic measures, you’ll be beating the heat and reducing your carbon footprint in cool, air-conditioned comfort this season.