East Tennessee summers are known for their intense heat and humidity. If your air conditioner isn’t performing at its best, you’re in for uncomfortable days and skyrocketing energy bills. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical steps you can take to keep your AC running efficiently all summer long. At Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing, we help East TN homeowners enjoy cool, comfortable homes while maximizing energy savings. Here’s how you can do the same.

1. Schedule Professional HVAC Maintenance Before Summer Begins

An HVAC tune-up is your first line of defense against poor performance and unexpected breakdowns. Our trained technicians inspect, clean, and optimize your entire AC system. This includes:

  • Checking refrigerant levels
  • Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils
  • Testing thermostat accuracy
  • Lubricating moving parts
  • Tightening electrical connections
  • Inspecting ductwork for leaks

Regular maintenance improves system efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and extends the lifespan of your AC unit.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters Every 1-3 Months

Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC system to work harder to push cool air throughout your home. This increases energy usage and wear on the system. Make it a habit to check filters monthly during summer. If you have pets or live in a dusty environment, change or clean them more often.

3. Seal and Insulate Your Home

Cool air escapes quickly through leaks in doors, windows, and poorly insulated attics. By sealing cracks and adding insulation, you can reduce the workload on your AC system. Weatherstripping, caulk, and foam insulation are low-cost improvements with high returns in comfort and energy savings.

4. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Manually adjusting your thermostat is inefficient and often inconsistent. A smart thermostat learns your preferences and adjusts settings based on your schedule. Many models can even be controlled from your smartphone. This automation keeps your home comfortable while reducing unnecessary energy usage.

5. Use Fans Strategically

Ceiling fans and box fans help circulate cool air more efficiently. While fans don’t actually cool the air, they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. This allows you to raise your thermostat setting by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.

6. Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Blocked vents prevent your AC from distributing cool air evenly. Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t obstructing airflow. Also, keep supply and return vents clean from dust and debris.

7. Keep Heat-Producing Appliances Away from Thermostats

Appliances like lamps, TVs, or ovens can give off heat that affects your thermostat readings. This could cause your AC to run more than necessary. Keep these appliances away from thermostats and consider cooking during cooler times of day.

8. Check and Clean Outdoor Condenser Units

Your outdoor AC unit needs space and airflow to function properly. Clear debris, leaves, and dirt from around the unit. Trim back shrubs or grass at least 2 feet in all directions. You can also gently rinse off the condenser fins with a hose to remove dust buildup.

9. Consider an AC System Upgrade

If your air conditioner is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time for a more efficient model. Modern AC units offer higher SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), which translates to lower energy consumption. Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing offers professional HVAC installation services in East TN to help you choose and install the best system for your home.

10. Use Curtains and Blinds to Block Heat

Direct sunlight through windows can dramatically raise indoor temperatures. Close curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat gain and ease the burden on your AC.

11. Avoid Excess Moisture Indoors

East Tennessee summers are humid, and excess indoor moisture makes your AC work harder. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, fix plumbing leaks promptly, and consider a dehumidifier to support your cooling system.

12. Get Professional Help When You Need It

Unusual noises, weak airflow, or inconsistent cooling are signs something isn’t right. Don’t wait until the system fails. Our HVAC repair team in East TN can quickly diagnose and fix the issue, preventing more expensive repairs or total breakdowns later.

Why Choose Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing?

As a locally owned and operated company serving East Tennessee, we understand the region’s unique climate and HVAC needs. Our certified technicians offer:

  • Seasonal maintenance and tune-ups
  • Emergency HVAC repair
  • Complete system installations
  • Energy-saving HVAC upgrades
  • Friendly, honest service

We’re proud to help East TN homeowners stay cool and comfortable all summer long.

When to Call the Pros

If your AC system isn’t keeping up with demand, or if your energy bills are unusually high, don’t ignore it. DIY maintenance goes a long way, but professional service ensures your system performs at its best. Call Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing today to schedule an inspection or service appointment. Let us help you keep your AC running efficiently all summer in East TN!

FAQs: Keeping Your AC Running Efficiently in East TN

How often should I service my AC system?

We recommend at least one tune-up per year, ideally before the summer season begins.

What temperature should I set my thermostat in the summer?

The U.S. Department of Energy suggests 78°F when you're home and higher when you're away.

Can a dirty air filter really affect AC efficiency?

Yes, clogged filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency, leading to higher energy bills and possible damage.

How can I tell if my AC unit is the right size for my home?

Our HVAC professionals can perform a load calculation to determine the proper system size based on your home’s square footage, layout, and insulation.

Are smart thermostats worth the investment?

Absolutely. They optimize comfort and energy use, often paying for themselves within the first year.

What SEER rating should I look for in a new AC unit?

Look for units with a SEER rating of 16 or higher for optimal energy efficiency.

Is it normal for my AC to run continuously during very hot days?

It can be, but if it’s running nonstop and not cooling properly, there may be an issue worth checking.

How do ceiling fans help with AC efficiency?

They create a cooling effect that allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without discomfort.

How do I know if my ductwork is leaking?

Signs include uneven cooling, higher bills, or dusty air. A professional inspection can confirm and seal leaks.

When should I replace my AC unit?

If it’s over 10-15 years old, frequently needs repairs, or has declining efficiency, it may be time to replace it.

Stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient this summer with Advanced Heat, AC & Plumbing — your trusted HVAC experts in East Tennessee.

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