The South is no stranger to scorching summers, but when a heat wave hits, it can feel like stepping into an oven every time you walk outside. While you can’t change the weather, you can take steps to stay safe, comfortable, and help your air conditioner work more efficiently through the extreme heat. Whether you’re trying to cool off after yard work or simply want to keep your home from feeling like a sauna, these practical tips can make a big difference.

Why Heat Waves Are Tough on Your AC

Before we dive into the tips, it’s helpful to understand why your air conditioning system may seem to struggle more during a heat wave. AC units are typically designed to handle temperatures about 20 degrees cooler than the outside. So, if it’s 100°F outside, most systems can reliably keep your home in the upper 70s—but may struggle to maintain a cooler temperature.

Running continuously to keep up with extreme heat puts extra stress on your AC system, potentially leading to:

• Increased energy bills
• Frozen coils or overheating
• Compressor or capacitor failure
• Reduced indoor air quality
• Shortened equipment lifespan

The good news? With a few smart steps, you can stay cooler and help your AC run more smoothly, even on the hottest days.

Top Tips to Stay Cool During a Southern Heat Wave

1. Use Curtains and Blinds Wisely

Keep curtains, blinds, and shades closed during the hottest parts of the day—especially on windows that face east or west. Sunlight streaming through your windows can significantly increase indoor temperatures. Light-blocking curtains or thermal shades are even better for insulating your home from outdoor heat.

2. Set Your Thermostat Strategically

During extreme heat, don’t force your AC to keep your home at an unrealistically low temperature. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher than usual—around 76–78°F—especially when you’re not home. Programmable thermostats or smart thermostats can make adjustments automatically, helping you stay comfortable and save energy.

3. Use Ceiling Fans Correctly

Fans don’t cool air—they cool people. Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in the summer to create a wind-chill effect. You can raise your thermostat a few degrees and still feel just as cool with fans helping circulate the air.

4. Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances Midday

Ovens, stovetops, clothes dryers, and even dishwashers generate heat that can warm up your home and make your AC work harder. Try grilling outdoors, microwaving, or using slow cookers. And consider doing laundry and dishes in the early morning or late evening.

5. Hydrate and Dress Light

Staying hydrated is essential during a heat wave. Drink plenty of water throughout the day—even indoors—and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to help your body regulate its temperature.

6. Use Portable Cooling Methods

Place a bowl of ice in front of a box fan for a quick DIY air chiller. Or try a damp, cold towel on your neck and wrists. Cooling your body directly can offer relief, even if the house isn’t ice cold.

How to Help Your AC Keep Up with the Heat

1. Change or Clean Your Air Filters

A dirty air filter makes your AC work harder and reduces airflow throughout your home. During a heat wave when your system is running constantly, it’s even more important to check your filter. Replace it if it’s dirty or clogged—ideally every 30 to 90 days depending on your usage and filter type.

2. Keep Vents and Returns Clear

Make sure no furniture, curtains, or rugs are blocking air vents or return registers. Good airflow is essential to maintaining consistent temperatures and reducing system strain.

3. Seal Air Leaks

Hot air sneaking in through poorly sealed doors and windows can cancel out your AC’s hard work. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal leaks and consider adding insulation to attics or crawlspaces if your home is older.

4. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Make sure your outdoor AC condenser is free of debris, weeds, or overgrown landscaping. It needs good airflow to dissipate heat. A clogged or dirty unit can’t cool your home efficiently and is more likely to overheat or shut down.

5. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

If your AC is making unusual noises, cycling on and off rapidly, or failing to keep up with the heat, it’s time to call in a professional. Small problems can quickly escalate in extreme heat and leave you without cooling when you need it most.

When to Call the Pros

Sometimes no amount of tips and tricks can compensate for an overworked or outdated system. Here are some signs it’s time to bring in a licensed HVAC technician:

• Your AC runs constantly but can’t keep your home cool
• Strange smells or sounds are coming from your vents
• Indoor humidity is rising and your air feels sticky
• Your energy bills spike dramatically from the month before
• The system is more than 10–15 years old and breaking down frequently

At Palmetto Heating & Air, we offer fast, reliable AC service for homeowners in Southeastern South Carolina & Northeastern Georgia and surrounding areas. Whether you need a mid-summer tune-up, emergency repairs, or are ready to upgrade to a more efficient unit, our team is here to help you beat the heat.

Stay Cool and Stay Ahead

Heat waves are a part of Southern summers—but being uncomfortable doesn’t have to be. With just a few adjustments around your home and some smart AC maintenance, you can stay cool and keep your system running strong all season long.

And if your air conditioner can’t keep up, don’t sweat it—call us today and let us keep you cool.

Contact Palmetto Heating & Air today to schedule an AC inspection, repair, or replacement today.