Ohio summers can get brutal when temperatures soar into the 90s or even hit record highs. Keeping your home cool doesn’t have to mean sky-high energy bills or an overworked air conditioner. Here are practical, homeowner-friendly tips to stay comfortable and save money during heat waves.
1. Schedule a Pre-Heatwave AC Tune-Up
Before summer peaks, schedule an inspection. Our technicians check refrigerant levels, clean condenser coils, and inspect electrical components. A tuned AC runs more efficiently and uses up to 15% less energy—plus you avoid surprise breakdowns during the hottest days.
2. Replace Filters Regularly
Clogged filters restrict airflow and make your AC run harder. Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months, especially during peak usage. That small step improves efficiency and extends system life.
3. Raise Thermostat When You’re Away
Set your thermostat to around 78 °F (26 °C) when you’re at home, and raise it by 7–10 °F while away or asleep. That easy adjustment can cut cooling costs by 10–15%. A programmable or smart thermostat makes this automatic and effortless.
4. Use Ceiling Fans as a Support System
A ceiling fan doesn’t cool the air, but it does make you feel cooler by circulating it. Run fans counterclockwise at about 8–10 feet per second. When paired with your AC, you can raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
5. Block Out Heat with Window Coverings
Close blinds, shades, or curtains, especially on south and west-facing windows, between late morning and early evening. Reflective or blackout window treatments can block up to 80% of solar heat, reducing cooling load.
6. Seal Leaks and Add Insulation
Gaps around doors, windows, electrical outlets, or attic access let cool air escape and let hot air in. Caulk and weather strip leaks, and check attic insulation levels. Proper sealing and insulation keep your home cool for longer.
7. Minimize Heat from Appliances
During heat waves, avoid using ovens, dryers, and dishwashers during peak hours. Instead, grill outside, use microwaves, or run appliances at night. That way, your AC won’t fight with extra indoor heat.
8. Create Cool Zones with Dehumidifiers
High humidity makes it feel hotter. Running a dehumidifier in your basement or central area can significantly improve comfort. Your AC won’t have to work as hard removing moisture, and you’ll feel cooler at higher temperatures.
9. Consider Zoning or Ductless Add-Ons
If some rooms stay warm, think about adding ductless mini-split units or installing zoning dampers. This lets you target cooling to specific areas without overcooling the whole house.
10. Know When to Replace Your AC
Older AC units lose efficiency. If yours is over 10–15 years old, you may save more by replacing it with a high-SEER ENERGY STAR model. Modern systems use less energy and cool faster, especially beneficial during Ohio heat waves.
Ready for a summer of smart cooling and lower energy bills? Contact David White Services today for a maintenance check, smart thermostat installation, or AC upgrade. We’ll help you stay comfortable and keep your energy use in check, no matter how high the mercury rises.
