As the mercury rises and Oklahoma's scorching summer heat sets in, your air conditioning system becomes your home's unsung hero. According to EnergySage, the average American household consumes 2,365 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually for cooling purposes. To put this into perspective, this is equal to powering four refrigerators for an entire year.

At Blackburn Plumbing & Air, we understand the importance of keeping your AC running smoothly for your comfort and to manage energy costs. Let's explore some essential summer AC tips to help you reduce the need for unexpected AC repairs.

Why Summer Weather Strains Your HVAC System

Before diving into our tips, it's crucial to understand why summer weather can make your HVAC system work harder:

●     Extreme temperatures force your AC to run longer and more frequently

●     Higher humidity levels make your system work harder to remove moisture from the air

●     Extended daylight hours often mean more people at home, increasing AC usage

3 Summer AC Tips to Reduce Repair Needs

Schedule Regular Maintenance

One of the most effective ways to prevent sudden AC repairs is to schedule regular maintenance. At Blackburn Plumbing & Air, we recommend having your system professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year, preferably in spring before the summer heat hits. Our certified technicians will:

●     Clean or replace filters

●     Check refrigerant levels

●     Inspect and clean coils

●     Ensure proper airflow

●     Lubricate moving parts

Regular maintenance can catch small issues before they become major problems, saving you from costly repairs.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat can significantly reduce strain on your AC system. By automatically adjusting temperatures based on your schedule, you can:

●     Reduce unnecessary cooling when you're away or asleep

●     Maintain a consistent temperature, preventing your AC from overworking

●     Save up to 10% a year on your cooling costs, according to ENERGY STAR

Don't Neglect Your Air Filters

Regularly changing or cleaning your air filters is a simple yet effective way to maintain your AC's efficiency and reduce repair needs. Dirty filters:

●     Restrict airflow, making your system work harder

●     Decrease indoor air quality

●     This can lead to frozen evaporator coils

We recommend checking your filters monthly and replacing them every 1-3 months.

How Blackburn Plumbing & Air Can Help

At Blackburn Plumbing & Air, we're proud to be Durant and McAlester's go-to experts for top-notch AC services. Our team of skilled, certified professionals can keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. We offer:

●     Comprehensive AC maintenance plans

●     Expert installation of energy-efficient AC systems

●     Honest, upfront pricing with no hidden fees

When it comes to AC repair in McAlester and the surrounding areas, trust the team that puts your comfort first. Our commitment to customer satisfaction helps us stand out, and we meet your cooling needs with professionalism and expertise. Don't wait for a breakdown to occur – take proactive steps to reduce your AC repair needs this summer.