As the relentless sun blazes down, your air conditioning unit might seem as though it’s perspiring just as much as you are. It’s not a figment of your imagination—most air conditioners aren’t crafted to withstand extreme heat beyond the 95° mark. Here are some savvy strategies to help your unit run efficiently even as temperatures soar.

Understanding the Heat Limits

“Air conditioners are kind of in the design realm of about 95°,” says Ben Nalty, Environment Masters’ General Manager. When temperatures rise above this, your unit is tasked with pushing its limits. Often, smaller components like capacitors are the first to succumb, earning days over this threshold the nickname “capacitor days.” By understanding these constraints, you can work with—not against—your system.

Simple Adjustments Indoors

A minor tweak to the thermostat can make a world of difference. “Bump it up one or two degrees more,” advises Nalty. This small change can ease the workload on your unit without significantly altering comfort levels. After sunset, you can lower the settings once again.

Prioritize Maintenance

Changing out the air filter and ensuring the outdoor unit is clean are critical steps. “Wash your outdoor unit,” recommends Nalty. Spray it gently, keeping the coils clear of debris. This facilitates better heat transfer and optimizes your unit’s performance.

Indirect Cooling Tactics

Adopting practices that cut down on indoor heat load can assist your A/C. Keeping blinds and curtains drawn, switching off unneeded lights, and avoiding the oven can all contribute to a cooler environment—and less strain on your unit.

Stay Proactive

Routine maintenance doesn’t just keep your system running; it safeguards against nasty surprises during heatwaves. Units neglected in terms of upkeep are more vulnerable to “common failures,” warns Nalty. Scheduling regular checks can save both discomfort and unexpected expenses.

In the face of an unforgiving sun, these measures can play a pivotal role in maintaining your comfort. Stay cool, stay informed, and treat your A/C with the respect it deserves—because it’s working as hard to survive the heatwave as you are.

As stated in WLBT, these steps may save you from the increased call volumes seen in this scorching season.