Our weather has really been nice the past couple of weeks, but Arizona’s heat really is just around the corner – Summer time! So it’s also time to make sure your house will be as cool and energy-efficient as possible when the temperatures start to climb – as we know they will – here in the Valley. Energy bills are higher for everyone in this climate in the summer; but there are many steps you can take to limit the usage of energy-intensive air conditioning, as well as increase the efficiency of the AC itself. Before summer comes, try these 5 ways to prepare your Arizona home for warm weather:

1. Clean your air conditioner. Of these 5 ways to prepare your Valley-Metro home for warm weather, this may be the most essential. Over time, air conditioners can accumulate dirt, dust, and lint in the air filters and condenser coils, which blocks the flow of air. This can be a matter of safety as well as efficiency. Often, a professional service is the best choice for this project.

1. Make sure the house is sealed well. Poor insulation and air leaks can let hot air in. Check around the doors and windows to make sure there is enough insulation. Inspect caulking to make sure there are no gaps between the windows or doors and walls, which can occur due to the expansion and contraction of wood during the cooler, wetter seasons. If you find air leaks, the fix is easy; just use sealant or silicone caulk.

1. Beware of heat-emitting appliances. Incandescent light bulbs can emit considerably more heat than fluorescent and LED bulbs, so if you haven’t made the switch yet, the summer is the time to do it. In addition, clean your dryer vent; a dirty vent can raise the temperature by preventing warm air from leaving the room.

1. Change the ceiling fan direction. In the summer, ceiling fans should blow air downward. Fans use considerably less energy than air conditioning, so it’s a good bet to keep the fans on and the AC a few degrees higher.

1. Change filters. Air filters act as a barrier between the air in your home and the AC unit, preventing dust and debris from getting into the AC system and reducing its efficiency. Changing filters regularly will ensure that your AC system operates efficiently and uses less energy.

Spring is also the best time for a thorough inspection of your AC unit. Cooper Climate Control offers a 16-point AC inspection that will get your system ready for summer.

If your air conditioning system is 10 or more years old, you might want to consider replacing it. Recent advances in technology have resulted in highly efficient and quiet systems that will really reduce your utility bills and make your home much more comfortable. Remember, estimates are always free from Cooper Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning, so give us a call or click here to request service.