Late summer in New Haven can bring intense heat, high humidity, and a heavy load on your HVAC system. Ensuring your home is prepared helps maintain comfort, reduce energy costs, and prevent system breakdowns.
1. Schedule a Late Summer HVAC Checkup
- Inspect refrigerant levels, electrical components, and airflow
- Clean coils, vents, and filters for peak efficiency
- Check thermostat operation and sensors
A mid-to-late summer checkup ensures your system can handle the remaining heat without issue.
2. Replace or Clean Air Filters
- Dirty filters reduce airflow and strain your AC
- Replace disposable filters every 30–90 days
- Clean reusable filters according to manufacturer instructions
Clean filters improve system efficiency and maintain indoor air quality.
3. Manage Indoor Heat Sources
- Limit oven, stove, and dryer use during peak afternoon hours
- Turn off unused electronics and lights
- Consider cooking outdoors or using a microwave
Reducing indoor heat helps your AC maintain a comfortable temperature more efficiently.
4. Control Sunlight and Heat Gain
- Close blinds, shades, or curtains on sun-facing windows
- Use reflective films or light-colored window treatments
- Open windows during cooler morning or evening hours if safe
Reducing heat gain decreases the workload on your AC system.
5. Use Fans Strategically
- Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise for cooling airflow
- Portable fans can help circulate air in larger or obstructed rooms
- Fans allow you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort
Fans complement your AC system for efficient cooling throughout late summer.
6. Keep Outdoor Units Clear
- Remove leaves, debris, and grass around the condenser
- Maintain at least two feet of clearance for proper airflow
- Check fan blades and protective grilles for damage
A clear outdoor unit improves efficiency and prevents costly repairs.
7. Stay on Top of Humidity
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas of your home
- Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens
- Keep indoor humidity between 40–50%
Controlling humidity enhances comfort and reduces strain on your AC system.
Final Thoughts
Late summer heat in New Haven can challenge even well-maintained homes. By scheduling a checkup, replacing filters, managing indoor heat, controlling sunlight, using fans, maintaining outdoor units, and monitoring humidity, you can enjoy a cool, efficient, and comfortable home.
Take action this August to ensure your AC stays reliable and your home remains comfortable through the end of summer.
