If you live in California, you already know that the weather can be unpredictable. One week it’s chilly, the next it’s blazing hot. Then comes the humidity, and suddenly your air conditioner is working overtime. But is your AC system really up to the challenge?
Let’s take a look at how California’s shifting climate affects your AC system and what you can do to make sure it keeps your home cool and comfortable all year round.
How California’s Climate Affects Your AC
California is known for its weather extremes. From desert heat to cool coastal mornings, your AC system needs to be flexible and efficient to keep up. Here are some of the challenges your system might face:
- Temperature Fluctuations – Sudden jumps in temperature mean your AC must work harder and more often, which can lead to wear and tear on older units.
- Increased Humidity– While most of the state is dry, coastal regions often face muggy days. High humidity makes your AC work even harder to remove moisture from the air.
- Longer Heatwaves – Climate change is bringing more frequent and intense heatwaves, putting constant stress on older, less efficient systems.
Is Your AC Efficient Enough?
Older air conditioners often have lower Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings, meaning they use more energy to cool your home. If your system is more than 10 to 15 years old, it may be costing you more than you realize.
- Higher Energy Bills – An outdated system burns more power, especially during long heat waves.
- Inconsistent Cooling – If some rooms in your house feel cooler than others, it might be time to upgrade.
- Frequent Repairs – If your AC needs constant fixing, replacing it could be more cost-effective.
Smart Ways To Prepare Your AC For Climate Swings
Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to help your air conditioner beat the California heat.
- Upgrade To A High-SEER Unit – Newer systems are built to handle high demand while using less energy.
- Install A Smart Thermostat – These devices help you maintain comfortable temperatures and save on energy costs.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance – Change your filters, clean coils, and inspect your unit seasonally to prevent surprise breakdowns.
- Improve Your Home’s Insulation – Keep cool air in and hot air out with proper sealing and shading.
- Consider A Heat Pump – These systems offer both heating and cooling and work well in California’s fluctuating climate.
- Follow The 20-Degree Rule – Try not to set your thermostat more than 20 degrees cooler than the outside temperature. This prevents overworking your unit and helps with energy efficiency.
Helping Your AC Help You
Your air conditioner has one job: to keep you comfortable. But with California’s climate swinging from one extreme to another, it needs a little help from you to perform its best.