Summer is here! For the kids, it means summer vacation. For everyone else, it’s a break from the unexpected year we had. With different parts of the country reopening, the world seems full of possibilities. One thing that’s stayed the same throughout the past year into today is our need to maintain and tend to house chores. For some, it’s the last thing we want to do — but being prepared will save money and time in the long run.
The HVAC and electrical teams at A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical have put together our top tips to get your home in shape this season (consider it your last homework assignment before school is out)!
The Homeowner’s Guide to Summer
We’re all ready for some fun in the sun, but is your home equipped to handle the heat? Our team answers some common FAQs related to air conditioning and electrical problems:
Why is my AC not cooling in summer?
Is the air conditioner running, but your home doesn’t feel like it? Cycling on and off with little to no effect on your home’s temperature could be caused by a few things:
- Air filter is too dirty
- Thermostat is set incorrectly
- Evaporator coil is frozen
- Refrigerant leak
- Incorrectly sized HVAC system
- Damaged air conditioner
There are many issues that could be contributing to this problem — some, like thermostat and air filter problems, can be troubleshot DIY-style. But other issues, such as problems with evaporator coils and refrigerant leaks, should be handled by professionals.
What to do if your AC goes out in the summer?
If you’ve ever lost AC in the middle of the summer heat, you don’t need to imagine the discomfort — you’ve lived it! But what do you do to solve these problems?
Troubleshoot Your AC Problems
First, check to make sure your thermostat is set correctly — with so many more people home from school and work during the summer, it’s fairly common for someone to accidentally raise the temperature or turn off the fan accidentally. If the thermostat appears to be set to the correct temperature and still isn’t cooling, try these other troubleshooting tips.
Another cause of this problem could be as simple as a blockage. Check your air filter to make sure that it isn’t too dirty and blocked up. If the filter looks clean, head outside and check the outside condenser for obstructions or blockage. Dirt and debris can block airflow and prevent your system from cooling your home to your desired temperature.
Again, while some problems can be fixed on your own, any major issues or problems with the electrical system inside your HVAC unit should be handled by professionally trained technicians.
Can heat cause electrical problems?
Heat and electrical problems may seem to correlate, but in actuality, power outages in the summer are more often than not caused by inclement weather and widespread overuse of electrical appliances.
If you do lose power, keep these tips in mind to stay safe and comfortable until the power comes back on:
- Keep all freezers and refrigerators closed as much as possible. The fridge will keep your perishables cold for about four hours — a freezer keeps its temperature for 48 hours.
- Stock the pantry with dry stock foods that don’t require refrigeration.
- Do not use gas appliances inside — this can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Turn off and disconnect expensive electronics and large appliances. Power surges can damage your home and possessions.
The easiest way to protect your energy at home this summer is to use electrical appliances such as your HVAC system, washing machine, and dishwasher during off-peak hours. If you have equipment that can’t be turned off (such as medical equipment), installing a backup generator will help you keep your power even if the grid goes down.
Contact A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical for Electrical and AC Needs!
Our professionally trained technicians are standing by to help you live comfortably this summer! Contact our team for repairs, installations, and maintenance: (503) 694-3396