When the temperature spikes and a heatwave hits, your air conditioning system becomes your best friend – or your worst nightmare. If you’re like most homeowners, you want to keep your home cool without risking a breakdown or waiting days for a technician.

The good news? There are several simple steps you can take yourself to help your HVAC system handle the heat with no service call required.

Let’s walk through what you can do right now to get ready.

Check and Replace Your Air Filter

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and make your AC work way harder that it should, especially during extreme heat. If you haven’t checked it in a while, now’s the time.

What to do:

  • Locate your air filter (usually near the return air duct or furnace)
  • Check if it looks dirty, dusty, or clogged
  • Replace it with a new one (preferably a high efficiency pleated filter)

Pro Tip: In the summer, you may need to replace filters every 30-60 days, depending on use and indoor air quality.

Set Your Thermostat Strategically

Your AC doesn’t need to be set to arctic levels to keep you comfortable. Setting it just a few degrees higher can reduce strain during a heatwave.

What to do:

  • Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when you’re home
  • Raise it a few degrees when you’re away
  • If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, set schedules to prevent overcooling during peak hours

Bonus: Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air and make your space feel cooler without adjusting the thermostat.

Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

Your AC’s outdoor condenser needs room to breathe. If it’s blocked by weeds, mulch, or patio furniture, it’s efficiency drops just when you need it most.

What to do:

  • Trim back plants, bushes, or grass at least two feet around the unit
  • Remove leaves, sticks, or debris from the unit
  • Make sure nothing is leaning against or covering the unit

Keep Sunlight Out During Peak Hours

Direct sunlight can significantly heat up your home, making your AC work overtime. Small changes to your routine can take pressure off your system.

What to do:

  • Open all vents in your home, even in rooms you’re not using
  • Make sure furnitre or rugs aren’t blocking vents or returns
  • Walk room to room and check for uneven airflow – if a room feels hotter, this tip might help balance it

Run Your Fan (Even When the AC Isn’t On)

Your HVAC system’s “Fan Only” setting can help circulate air throughout your home, keeping temperatures more consistent during extreme heat.

What to do:

  • Set your thermostat to “Fan On” or “Circulate” mode instead of “Auto”
  • This helps distribute cool air evenly, especially in multilevel homes

Close Up Gaps and Leaks

Hot air creeping in through poorly sealed doors or windows can sabotage your AC’s hard work.

What to do:

  • Check weather stripping around doors
  • Use caulk or foam sealant for drafty windows or cracks
  • Use door draft stoppers for extra protection during extreme heat

Bonus: Prepare a “Cooling Backup Plan”

Even a well running system can struggle during extreme temperatures. Have a backup plan ready just in case.

Ideas to consider:

  • Keep extra fans or portable ACs on hand
  • Know where your local cooling centers are (especially important for elderly family members or kids)
  • Stay hydrated and stock up on ice packs and cold drinks

Final Thoughts

Prepping your HVAC system for a heatwave doesn’t have to involve tools or a service call – just a little attention and a few smart tweaks can go a long way.

That said, if your system is showing signs of struggle (like blowing warm air or cycling constantly), it’s best to get ahead of a breakdown and give your local HVAC pros a call.

Need help troubleshooting something? We’re happy to answer questions and keep your system cool, efficient, and reliable – even when temps hit triple digits.