3 Tips to Prevent an AC Breakdown During a Heat Wave

New Jersey heat waves can push an air conditioner to its limits. An AC breakdown is more likely when temperatures reach the high 90s. Fortunately, many failures are preventable.

Use these three simple practices before the next stretch of extreme heat.

Tip 1: Set the Thermostat Wisely

When outdoor temperatures reach 95 or 100 degrees, your AC is already working hard. Setting the thermostat to 68 or 70 degrees does not make the house cool faster. It keeps the system running at full capacity for hours.

The Department of Energy recommends 78 degrees during cooling season. During a heat wave, try 79 or 80 degrees and use ceiling fans. A house at 80 degrees is better than a broken AC and a house at 95.

• Use ceiling fans when rooms are occupied.
• Block direct sun through south and west windows.
• Run ovens and dryers during cooler hours.

Tip 2: Check the Filter and Outdoor Unit

Restricted airflow is a common reason AC systems fail during a heat wave. Check these items before the forecasted heat arrives:

• Air filter: Replace it if dirty. A clogged filter can reduce airflow and freeze the indoor coil.
• Outdoor condenser: Remove leaves and debris. Trim plants and keep about two feet of clearance.
• Supply registers: Open vents in every room you want cooled.
• Return pathway: Move furniture or rugs that block return air.

These checks take less than ten minutes. Doing them early is easier than troubleshooting during an outage.

Tip 3: Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Schedule a professional tune-up each spring, before peak demand. Maintenance catches small problems before they become expensive failures.

• Refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant may indicate a leak.
• Electrical components: A technician can test capacitors and connections.
• Coils: Clean coils help the system transfer heat.
• Static pressure: Testing can reveal duct and airflow issues.
• Performance: Temperature readings show how well the system is operating.

If you have not scheduled a tune-up this season, call before the next major heat wave. A system that is running today may still need service.

Bonus Tips for Extreme Heat

• Pre-cool the house during cooler morning hours.
• Close blinds and curtains in the afternoon.
• Avoid using the oven, dishwasher, and dryer during peak heat.
• Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to remove heat and humidity.
• Stay hydrated and check on vulnerable family members.

What to Do If Your AC Fails

1. Turn off the thermostat and stop cycling the system.
2. Check the filter, breakers, and outdoor unit.
3. Listen for unusual sounds, but do not open electrical panels.
4. Call a licensed HVAC contractor.
5. Close blinds, run fans, and move vulnerable household members somewhere cooler.
6. Check for cooling centers in your New Jersey county.

Heat-related illness is dangerous. If your indoor temperature climbs into the 90s, getting somewhere cooler is more important than waiting at home.

How GreenLife Energy Solutions Can Help

If your AC is aging, struggling, or driving up summer bills, GreenLife can help you understand what is happening inside your home. Our New Jersey team identifies the causes of comfort problems and matches homeowners and renters with appropriate energy solutions.

• Comfort Partners: Income-qualified residents may receive free HVAC repairs or replacements, insulation, and air sealing.
• Income-Qualified (IQ) Program: Eligible residents may receive free comprehensive home energy improvements.

The first step is a professional assessment. We can show you what is working, what needs attention, and where improvements can have the biggest impact.

Schedule Your Assessment

Call GreenLife at 609-869-8909 or visit our contact page. Get ahead of summer and keep your home cool, healthy, and efficient.