Don’t Burn Out Your AC: How to Protect Your System During a Heatwave – Top HVAC Tips

When temperatures soar, it’s tempting to turn your home into an icebox. But cranking your AC to the lowest setting is actually one of the worst things you can do during extreme heat. Many homeowners unintentionally damage their air conditioning systems with habits that seem helpful but end up causing costly repairs.

HVAC professionals say that trying to cool your home faster or “optimise” airflow without understanding your system can lead to burnout, inefficiency, and breakdowns right when you need cool air the most.

🚫 Top 5 AC Mistakes Homeowners Make During Heatwaves

✅ Setting the thermostat too low. Turning it down drastically won’t cool your home faster. It forces your system to run non-stop, increasing wear, tear, and energy bills.

✅ Closing vents in unused rooms. This creates pressure imbalances that strain your AC and reduce efficiency.

✅ Neglecting air filter changes. Dirty filters block airflow, making your AC work harder and consume more electricity.

✅ Skipping annual maintenance. Minor issues can turn into expensive repairs if your system isn’t serviced regularly.

✅ Leaving windows open. Even slightly open windows let hot air in, making your AC work overtime to compensate.

💡 HVAC Expert Tip

Keep your thermostat at a reasonable temperature (around 24-25°C or 75-77°F) during extreme heat and schedule regular maintenance to keep your AC running efficiently and extend its lifespan.