As HVAC professionals serving Bucks County, Philadelphia, and the Delaware Valley, we help homeowners deal with cooling problems during extreme summer heatwaves every day. A recent Northern Ireland World article outlined some common but surprising homeowner mistakes that contribute to overheating. Here's our expert HVAC breakdown, plus what you can do about it.
Mistake #1: Letting Sunlight Heat Up Your Home (and Overwork Your AC)
Leaving blinds or curtains open during peak sunlight hours is like inviting a heatwave into your home.
HVAC Pro Tip: Use thermal or blackout curtains on windows facing south or west. You can reduce indoor heat gain by up to 33%, giving your air conditioner a break and lowering your energy bill. Reflective window film is another option for year-round energy efficiency.
Mistake #2: Running Appliances That Raise Indoor Temperatures
Ovens, dryers, dishwashers, and even your computer generate heat. If you’re running these during the hottest part of the day, you're making your AC system work overtime.
HVAC Pro Tip: Delay running large appliances until early morning or late evening. Many dishwashers and laundry machines now include a “delay start” function, use it! And switch to LED lights and smart plugs to reduce passive heat from electronics.
Mistake #3: Poor Ventilation Hurts Cooling Efficiency
Opening windows at night only helps if the outdoor air is significantly cooler than your indoor air. During a Southeast PA heatwave, that often isn’t the case.
HVAC Pro Tip: If your home gets stuffy at night, don’t rely on open windows alone. Use mechanical ventilation like attic fans or whole-home ventilators. Even better: consider upgrading to a ductless heat pump with inverter technology, which maintains steady indoor temps and operates efficiently—even in extreme heat.
Bonus Mistake: Using an Outdated Thermostat
A manual or basic programmable thermostat can't respond quickly enough to fluctuating temperatures, which can make your home uncomfortable and increase your energy usage.
HVAC Pro Tip: Install a smart thermostat that adjusts based on your schedule, outside temperatures, and even humidity levels. This small investment can lead to significant savings and improved comfort.
Ready to Beat the Heat?
If your home still feels too warm, even with your AC running, the problem could be your system, not just your habits. We offer expert AC tune-ups, ductless heat pump installations, and energy-efficient cooling solutions for homes throughout Bucks County, Philadelphia, and the Delaware Valley. Schedule your cooling system inspection today!
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
