7 Quick Fixes to Protect Your AC in Springfield, TN Heat

An overworked AC means higher energy bills, more repairs, and a shorter system lifespan. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to protect your unit. With the right strategies, you can stay cool this summer while giving your AC a much-needed break.

Why It Matters: Avoid AC Burnout

In peak summer, your air conditioner works harder than ever. 

If you’re not careful, this can lead to:

• • Unexpected breakdowns
  • Sky-high energy bills
  • Reduced cooling efficiency
  • Costly emergency repairs

Now is the time to prepare your home for summer heat—before the hottest days hit.

1. Block Out Heat with Window Treatments

Sunlight streaming through windows raises indoor temperatures FAST.

Try this:

• Install blackout curtains or thermal blinds
• Use solar film or reflective shades to deflect heat
• Keep blinds closed during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Fun Fact: This simple step can reduce indoor temps by up to 10 degrees.

2. Use Fans to Improve Airflow

Fans don’t cool the air—but they make you feel cooler by boosting air circulation.

Tips for effective fan use:

• • Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer
  • Use floor or box fans to push cool air through your home
  • Pair fans with your AC to lower your thermostat setting without losing comfor

3. Clean or Replace Your Air Filters

Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder.

For cooling efficiency, you should:

• Check filters every 30–60 days
• Replace them more often if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area
• Clean reusable filters regularly

Bonus: Swapping out dirty air filters doesn’t just help your AC run better—it also improves indoor air quality for a healthier, more comfortable home.

4. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings

Raising your thermostat just a few degrees can make a HUGE difference.

Try this:

• Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home
• Raise it to 85°F when you’re away
• Use a programmable thermostat or smart system to automate settings

Did you know? Every degree above 72°F can save you up to 3% on cooling costs.

5. Limit Heat from Appliances

Appliances like ovens, dryers, and even TVs give off heat that makes your AC work overtime.

Keep it cool by:

• Cooking with a microwave, air fryer, or grill instead of the oven
• Running dryers and dishwashers at night
• Turning off electronics when not in use

Reducing excess heat from appliances keeps your home feeling cooler without touching the thermostat.

6. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

Your air conditioner needs seasonal maintenance—just like your car.

A spring or early-summer tune-up includes:

• Refrigerant check

• Coil cleaning
• Thermostat calibration
• Safety inspection 

Why this matters: Maintenance helps your system run efficiently, prevents breakdowns, and extends lifespan.

We can help: Call Petit Heating and Cooling and keep your cool all summer long!

7. Upgrade Your AC If It’s Time

If your AC unit is over 10 years old, frequently needs repairs, or has been causing a spike in your energy bills, it may be time to consider an upgrade.

Older systems often struggle to keep up with demand, especially during peak summer months. Newer, energy-efficient models not only cool your home more effectively—they can also reduce your monthly utility costs and offer improved indoor air quality.

Stay Cool, Stay Prepared—Call Petit Heating & Cooling

Tennessee temps can be ruthless—but your home doesn’t have to be.

At Petit Heating and Cooling, we help homeowners like you stay comfortable by offering:

• After Hours Emergency Services Available
• Affordable financing options
• Maintenance plans as low as $12 per month 
• Certified experts that will tackle all of your HVAC needs

Call Petit Heating & Cooling today to schedule your AC tune-up or talk to us about an upgrade. We’ll help you stay cool, save money, and avoid unexpected breakdowns when the heat hits hardest.