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Understanding Your Home's Cooling Needs
The scorching heat of summer can put a severe strain on air conditioning systems, especially during extreme weather events. As temperatures rise, understanding how your HVAC system works becomes crucial in maintaining comfort and efficiency in your home. For homeowners, this means being proactive in managing your air conditioning unit before problems arise, particularly when heat advisories are in effect.
HVAC Systems Under Pressure
This week, HVAC experts have reported an unusual spike in service requests. "We’re overwhelmed by calls," shared Josh Thompson, a service manager at Quality Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electrical. As homes across Knoxville work overtime to stay cool, many units are overwhelmed, showcasing the importance of regular maintenance and quick troubleshooting.
Top Tips for Keeping Your A/C Running Smoothly
To help homeowners navigate the stresses of summer heat, Thompson offers some sound advice: Check Your Air Filters. Dirty or clogged filters impede airflow, reducing efficiency and making it difficult for your unit to cool your home effectively. A clean filter can significantly improve your system's performance, especially when outside temperatures soar.
Another critical aspect is understanding temperature differentials. According to Thompson, ideally, your AC should cool your living space to about 20 degrees cooler than the outside temperature. If it’s sweltering outside, you should expect your indoors to stay relatively comfortable if everything is functioning properly.
Mind the Power Grid
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has also raised concerns about heightened energy demands during this heatwave, urging residents to be mindful of their power usage. The TVA predicts peak household usage to reach 33,000 megawatts, surpassing last year's highs. Homeowners are advised to run major appliances like washing machines and dryers during off-peak hours, ideally after 8 PM, to help ease pressure on the energy grid.
Stay Informed and Prepared
With the WVLT First Alert Weather team issuing alerts for extreme temperatures, it’s essential to stay updated. Not only does this help homeowners prepare for potential outages or repairs, but it also encourages proactive measures to ensure your home can withstand the heat. When facing extreme conditions like these, having a maintenance plan for your HVAC system can prevent inconvenient breakdowns and allow you to save money on utility bills.
Embrace Your DIY Spirit
For homeowners who are handy or wish to tackle issues on their own, there are many resources available for DIY repairs and maintenance. From troubleshooting tips to appliance checklists, taking ownership of your HVAC system can not only give peace of mind but also empower you as a homeowner. Remember, small regular upkeep can prevent major issues down the road.
Don’t wait for the next heatwave to understand how to keep your home cool! Schedule a routine inspection of your HVAC system, stay informed, and be prepared. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your house remains your safe, comfortable haven through even the hottest days.
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