How to Beat the Illinois Heat Without Overworking Your AC
Illinois summers can bring sweltering heat, and your air conditioner can easily become your best friend during these hot months. However, running your AC nonstop can wear it out quickly and spike your energy bills. Luckily, there are several ways to stay cool without overworking your system. From improving your home’s insulation to using fans effectively, there are simple steps you can take to support your AC without pushing it to its limits. At BELOMAN, in Belleville, IL, we’re here to help you stay comfortable this summer while keeping your energy costs in check.
Use Your Thermostat Wisely
Your thermostat is a powerful tool when it comes to managing your home’s temperature. If you’ve ever cranked your AC down to the lowest setting in the summer, you know it doesn’t necessarily cool your home any faster. In fact, it just makes your system work harder and costs you more money. To give your AC a break, set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re not home or while you’re sleeping. A temperature of 78°F is comfortable for most people and is a good balance between staying cool and saving energy.
Consider the convenience of a smart thermostat. These devices can learn your habits and adjust the temperature for you, so you don’t have to worry about constantly managing your AC. They can cool your home just before you arrive, ensuring your comfort without the stress of manual adjustments.
Block Out the Sun
The sun blasts heat into your home, especially in the afternoon when it shines directly through your windows. To stay cool without cranking up the AC, blocking that sunlight is key. Close the curtains or blinds in rooms that get the most sun to prevent heat buildup. Light-colored or reflective curtains are a smart investment, as they can help bounce the sun’s rays away and keep your space cooler.
Another option is to add some outdoor shading to your home. Planting trees or shrubs outside can help block the sun’s heat before it even reaches your windows. Shade from trees can make a big impact, especially on the west side, where the sun is strongest in the afternoon. You can also add awnings or shade screens to your windows for extra protection. Blocking the sun doesn’t just make your home feel cooler; it also takes some of the pressure off your AC.
Improve Airflow with Fans
Improving air circulation in your home can provide a sense of relief from the heat. Ceiling fans and portable fans are perfect for this. Ceiling fans, especially, can create a cool breeze by pushing air downward, making the room feel cooler and more comfortable.
You can also use box fans or standing fans in rooms that need extra cooling. Place a fan near a window or door to create a cross-breeze. Opening windows early in the morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside can help bring in fresh, cooler air and push out the hot air that’s built up during the day. While fans don’t lower the temperature, they help circulate the air, making it feel cooler. When used in conjunction with open windows, fans can create a more effective cooling system and give your AC a break.
Keep Your AC in Good Shape
Taking care of your air conditioner is one of the most important steps in making sure it runs efficiently all summer. A well-maintained AC unit will cool your home faster, use less energy, and last longer. The first step in keeping your AC in good shape is to change or clean the air filter regularly. A clogged filter reduces airflow, which can make your system work harder and use more energy.
Next, clean the coils and check the refrigerant levels. Dirty coils can cause your AC to overheat and lower its efficiency, while low refrigerant can make it harder to cool the air. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues and potentially save you hundreds in repair costs. If you don’t feel comfortable doing these tasks yourself, consider hiring a professional to give your AC a tune-up. An annual check-up before summer starts will help keep your system running smoothly, so you’re not stuck with an AC that can’t handle the heat.
Call Us Today for an Efficient AC
Staying cool in the Illinois heat doesn’t have to mean running your AC on full blast all day. If you need tips or professional help optimizing your cooling system, BELOMAN is ready to assist. Call us today and let us help you stay cool all summer long with our AC maintenance services. We also provide plumbing services such as drain cleaning, water heater installation, and gas line services.
