When temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, your air conditioning system is working harder than it does at any other time of the year. During a heat wave, even a healthy system may run nearly nonstop to maintain your desired indoor temperature.
If it feels like your AC isn’t keeping up with the heat, that doesn’t automatically mean something is broken. The good news? There are a few simple things every homeowner can do to help their air conditioner perform its best and avoid unnecessary breakdowns.
1. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear
Your outdoor condenser needs plenty of airflow to remove heat from your home. If weeds, tall grass, bushes, or debris have grown around the unit, your system has to work much harder.
Take a few minutes to:
- Trim grass and weeds around the unit.
- Maintain at least 18–24 inches of clearance on all sides.
- Remove leaves, sticks, cottonwood fluff, and other debris.
- Gently rinse the coil with a garden hose if it appears dirty (avoid using a pressure washer).
A clean condenser can improve efficiency and reduce strain on your equipment. If it’s been more than a year since your system had a professional cleaning, an air conditioning tune-up covers what you can’t safely reach yourself.
2. Replace Your Air Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of poor cooling performance.
When airflow becomes restricted, your system:
- Uses more electricity.
- Cools less effectively.
- Experiences additional wear and tear.
- May even freeze up on extremely hot days.
If you can’t remember the last time you changed your filter, now is the perfect time. During periods of heavy summer use, many homes benefit from replacing filters every 1–3 months.
3. Keep Sunlight Out
Direct sunlight can quickly heat up your home. Closing blinds, curtains, and shades on windows that receive afternoon sun can dramatically reduce heat gain and help your air conditioner maintain a comfortable temperature.
It’s one of the easiest—and least expensive—ways to lower the workload on your cooling system. Sunlight is only one way heat sneaks in; we cover the rest in 3 causes for why your home isn’t staying cold in the summer.
4. Is It Normal for Your AC to Run Constantly in a Heat Wave?
Many homeowners become concerned when their air conditioner runs continuously during extreme heat. In reality, that’s often exactly what it’s designed to do.
On the hottest days of the year, your system may run for long periods to maintain indoor comfort. This steady operation is generally more efficient than constantly starting and stopping.
If your home is holding close to your thermostat setting, your system is likely doing its job—even if it rarely shuts off. It’s when your home keeps getting warmer that it’s worth a closer look.
5. Warning Signs Your AC Isn’t Just Working Hard—It Needs Help
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to give us a call:
- Warm air coming from your vents, or the AC not blowing cold air at all.
- Weak airflow.
- Ice forming on refrigerant lines or the indoor coil.
- Unusual noises.
- Water leaking around your indoor unit.
- Your home continuing to get warmer despite the system running.
Addressing small issues early can often prevent much larger—and more expensive—air conditioning repairs. And if your system quits on you after hours, our 24/7 emergency service is a phone call away.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Unfortunately, HVAC systems don’t always choose convenient times to fail. That’s why Reitz Home Services offers 24/7 emergency air conditioning repair throughout Lancaster County.
Whether your system needs a repair, a seasonal tune-up, or it’s simply reached the end of its life, our experienced technicians are ready to help. We also provide free replacement estimates and can help you choose a new high-efficiency air conditioning or heat pump system that’s right for your home—with financing options to fit your budget.
Don’t wait until you’re without air conditioning during the next heat wave. If your system isn’t keeping up, give Reitz Home Services a call. We’re here to keep your family comfortable—day or night.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and let us know if we can help!