Summers in Michigan can be unpredictable, but one thing’s for sure, when the heat hits, you’ll want to be ready. Whether you’re a homeowner trying to protect your family or a business owner focused on keeping your operations running smoothly, the strain on your air conditioning system can spike quickly during a heat wave. That’s why we’re sharing expert-approved tips to help you stay cool and efficient when temperatures soar.
Why Efficiency Matters During a Heat Wave
Running your air conditioning full blast might keep you cool temporarily, but it also increases your energy bills and puts added stress on your HVAC system. Over time, that strain can shorten the life of your equipment and lead to expensive repairs. Efficiency isn’t just about saving money, it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your home or building stays comfortable and safe.
At Warren Systems, we’ve been serving Michigan homeowners and businesses with reliable HVAC service for over 20 years. We’ve seen what works and what doesn’t, and we’re here to help you make smart, energy-efficient choices when it matters most.
Tip #1: Schedule a Pre-Season HVAC Tune-Up
An efficient system starts with regular maintenance. Before a heat wave hits, schedule an HVAC tune-up to ensure your system is clean, optimized, and ready to handle the pressure.
What we check during a tune-up:
- Refrigerant levels and pressure
- Thermostat accuracy
- Evaporator and condenser coil condition
- Electrical connections and components
- Air filter status and airflow levels
- Blower components and motor operation
A professional tune-up can improve performance by up to 15%, helping your system cool more effectively with less energy use.
Contact our team today to schedule your HVAC tune-up. It’s one of the simplest ways to boost efficiency before the next heat wave.
Tip #2: Seal and Insulate Your Home or Business
Cool air escapes quickly if your space isn’t properly sealed or insulated. That means your AC has to work harder to maintain the same temperature.
Quick fixes to improve insulation and air sealing:
- Add weatherstripping to doors and windows
- Seal gaps around vents, pipes, and baseboards with caulk
- Install or upgrade attic insulation
- Use thermal curtains to block sunlight
Even small gaps can lead to significant energy loss. If your energy bills are unusually high, air leakage might be the cause.
Need help identifying leaks or insulation problems? Our team can assess your space and recommend improvements that save money year-round.
Tip #3: Replace or Clean Your Air Filter Regularly
One of the easiest and most effective ways to stay energy-efficient is to clean or replace your air filter every 1–3 months. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder and reducing overall cooling efficiency.
Signs your filter needs replacing:
- More dust than usual in your home
- Increased energy bills
- Uneven cooling across rooms
- Allergy or respiratory issues
A clean filter keeps your indoor air fresh and your system running smoothly.
Tip #4: Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats help you stay comfortable while cutting unnecessary cooling costs. You can program temperature changes throughout the day based on when you’re home, asleep, or away.
Thermostat tips for energy savings:
- Set it to 78°F when you’re home
- Increase to 82–85°F when you’re away
- Use a smart thermostat to adjust automatically
- Avoid setting your thermostat lower than needed to “cool faster” — it doesn’t work that way
Smart thermostats can reduce energy use by up to 10–12% annually.
Ask us about smart thermostat installation. We can help you choose and install the right model for your system.
Tip #5: Block Heat from the Outside
When direct sunlight enters through windows or doors, it can quickly raise the indoor temperature. Blocking that heat helps your AC work more efficiently.
Simple ways to reduce solar heat gain:
- Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight
- Use reflective window films
- Install exterior shades or awnings
- Landscape with shade-providing trees or shrubs
Reducing sunlight exposure can lower indoor temps by several degrees, making your space easier to cool.
Tip #6: Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances During Peak Hours
Your oven, dryer, and dishwasher generate a lot of heat, especially when used during the hottest part of the day.
Tips to reduce internal heat:
- Cook meals early in the day or use a microwave or grill
- Run your dishwasher and laundry overnight
- Switch to LED lightbulbs, which emit less heat
- Turn off electronics and lights when not in use
These small changes reduce your cooling load and improve energy efficiency.
Tip #7: Use Fans to Boost Airflow
Ceiling and portable fans can complement your AC by improving airflow and helping distribute cool air more evenly.
Fan tips for maximum impact:
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer
- Place box fans in windows during cooler nights to pull in fresh air
- Use fans to push cold air into rooms that tend to get warm
Fans don’t cool the air, they cool people. Turn them off when you leave a room to save energy.
Tip #8: Know When It’s Time to Upgrade Your HVAC System
If your air conditioner is more than 10–15 years old, it may be costing you more than it’s worth. Older systems are less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, especially under stress during heat waves.
Signs you may need a new system:
- Frequent repairs
- Rising energy bills
- Uneven or inadequate cooling
- Strange noises or odors
Modern HVAC systems are up to 30% more efficient than units from just a decade ago. An upgrade can pay for itself in energy savings over time.
Wondering if it’s time for an upgrade? Request a free quote from Warren Systems and let us walk you through your options.
Tip #9: Check Your Ductwork for Leaks or Blockages
Your AC system can only perform as well as your ductwork allows. Leaky or blocked ducts waste cooled air and force your system to work harder.
How to tell if your ducts need attention:
- Inconsistent temperatures between rooms
- Whistling or rattling noises
- Visible dust or dirt around vents
- Higher energy bills without a clear cause
Professional duct inspection and cleaning can dramatically improve your HVAC system’s performance.
Tip #10: Stay Ahead of the Weather
Keeping an eye on weather forecasts lets you take action before a heat wave begins. The sooner you prepare, the easier it is to manage indoor comfort.
Steps to take before the heat arrives:
- Schedule a system inspection
- Stock up on filters
- Adjust your thermostat schedule
- Close off unused rooms
- Alert family or employees about your heat plan
Warren Systems is here to help you stay proactive – not reactive – when it comes to comfort and energy efficiency.
Why Choose Warren Systems?
We’re not just HVAC experts; we’re your neighbors. Located right here in Lapeer, Michigan, we take pride in keeping our community safe, cool, and comfortable. Our experienced technicians are trained to handle any HVAC situation with care and professionalism.
What our customers love about us:
- Friendly, timely service
- Transparent pricing
- High-efficiency systems and expert installations
- A local team you can trust
Whether you need emergency repairs, preventive maintenance, or a complete system upgrade, we’re here when you need us most.
Ready for the Next Heat Wave?
Don’t wait until you’re sweating indoors to make a change. These tips are your first step toward a cooler, more energy-efficient home or business. If you need help implementing any of these solutions, Warren Systems is just a phone call away.