Living in Gilbert, AZ means dealing with scorching hot summers. As the temperatures rise, keeping your home cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. At Simply the Best HVAC, we understand the challenges of staying cool in this desert climate. In this blog post, we'll share ten valuable tips to help you effectively cool your Gilbert home and beat the summer heat.
1. Set Your Thermostat Efficiently:
To maximize energy efficiency, adjust your thermostat to higher temperatures when you’re away from home. Consider raising the temperature by a few degrees even when you’re at home, as each degree can make a significant impact on energy consumption. Programmable thermostats are an excellent investment for precise temperature control and energy savings.
2. Utilize Ceiling Fans:
Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to supplement your air conditioning system. They create a cooling breeze that helps circulate air and creates a wind-chill effect. By running ceiling fans in occupied rooms, you can set your thermostat a bit higher without sacrificing comfort. Remember to adjust your fan blades to rotate counterclockwise in the summer for optimal cooling.
3. Seal Air Leaks:
Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings can undermine the efficiency of your cooling system. Inspect your home for gaps and cracks, and seal them using weatherstripping or caulking. Properly sealing air leaks prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from infiltrating your living spaces, enhancing the effectiveness of your air conditioning system.
4. Keep Sunlight Out:
During the day, close curtains, blinds, or shades on windows that receive direct sunlight. This simple step minimizes heat gain and reduces the workload on your air conditioner. Consider using reflective window films or solar shades to further block out heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays.
5. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your air conditioning system running efficiently. Schedule professional HVAC maintenance with Simply the Best HVAC to ensure that your system is clean, properly calibrated, and free from any potential issues. Our experienced technicians will inspect and tune up your system, improving its performance and energy efficiency.
6. Clean or Replace Air Filters:
Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy. Clean or replace your air filters every one to three months to maintain proper airflow. This simple maintenance task not only improves energy efficiency but also helps maintain better indoor air quality.
7. Opt for Zoning Systems:
Consider installing zoning systems in your home to enhance energy efficiency. Zoning allows you to divide your home into different areas or zones, each with its own thermostat and cooling settings. This way, you can cool occupied areas more effectively while minimizing cooling in unoccupied spaces, leading to energy savings.
8. Use Programmable Thermostats:
Take advantage of programmable thermostats to create cooling schedules that align with your daily routine. Set higher temperatures when you’re away from home or during sleeping hours and lower temperatures for your return or waking hours. Programmable thermostats allow you to automate temperature adjustments, ensuring comfort when needed while conserving energy when you’re not home.
9. Insulate Your Home:
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a cool indoor environment. Ensure that your walls, attic, and ductwork are well-insulated to minimize heat transfer. Insulation helps to create a barrier that prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from seeping into your home. Consider upgrading insulation or consulting a professional to assess your insulation needs.
10. Ventilate Strategically:
Take advantage of cooler evenings and mornings by opening windows and utilizing natural ventilation. This allows fresh air to circulate through your home, providing a natural cooling effect. However, be mindful of outdoor temperatures. As the temperature rises, close windows and blinds to prevent heat from entering the home as quickly.
Stay Cool and Save Energy with Simply the Best HVAC!
By following these ten tips, you can keep your Gilbert, AZ home cool and comfortable during the hottest summer months while also saving energy and reducing your utility bills. Remember, at Simply the Best HVAC, we’re here to help you every step of the way.