Dallas’s summers are undoubtedly hot. When the heatwaves start to roll, it blazes. With temperatures climbing above 100°F, keeping your home cool is a question of safety and efficiency.
Unfortunately, many homeowners fight against this heat in ways that only drain their wallets and wear their HVAC systems down. Lee Air Services has helped Dallas families stay cool for decades. Their 45+ years of experience made them familiar with what works (and what doesn’t).
If you are tired of sweating through sky-high energy bills or worrying about your AC giving out in the middle of August, this guide is for you.
8 Smart Tips to Beat Dallas Heatwaves and Save on Energy Bills
Dallas’s long summers demand extra AC usage. Two main issues during this period are high bills and excess wear. So, efficiency and staying proactive with maintenance are the main priorities to prepare your HVAC system.
1. Start with Your Thermostat Strategy
Don’t set your thermostat as low as possible when the heat rises. Many think it cools the home faster, but it can’t be far from the truth. You will get the same rate of cooling regardless of the temperature you set.
What actually happens is a waste of energy. Suppose it’s 102°F outside, and doesn’t matter if you put your settings to 65° or 78°, your AC is going to cool at the same rate. In lower settings, your AC is going to end up using more energy to achieve that.
So, what’s the solution?
- Keep your thermostat at 76-78°F when you are home.
- Gradually change (2-3° at a time) from there, if you need to readjust after reaching that temperature (to avoid overworking).
- Use a smart thermostat so you don’t have to adjust manually.
Just using a smart thermostat can save almost 10% of your energy cost, while giving you maximum comfort.
2. Seal Air Leaks
A perfectly cool AC is only half the battle. No matter how perfect your system works, it won’t matter if the cool air doesn’t stay indoors to cool you. If that happens, your HVAC unit has to work overtime to keep you cool, especially during Dallas heatwaves.
Some common places through which the air passes are drafty windows and doors, attic insulation gaps, and air duct leaks.
- Install weatherstripping or caulking in drafty windows and doors.
- Insulate the attic based on the size and location of your gap (silicone, acrylic latex caulk, expanding spray for foam insulation, foam boards, etc.).
- Consult a professional if you are doubtful about the leaks and sealing.
Lee Air Services often finds that homeowners can reduce energy waste by sealing leaks before even upgrading. It is one of the cheapest ways to stay cool more efficiently.
3. Get Your Routine AC Tune-Up
Dallas heatwaves are a true test for your HVAC system. Without proper maintenance, your system has way higher chance of breaking down. Nobody wants that at the height of summer heat.
So, prepare your AC before every summer. A regular maintenance check includes:
- Filter changes (if needed)
- Condenser coil cleaning
- Refrigerant level checks
- Electrical components inspections
Tuning up your AC before a possible heatwave is like a checkup before a marathon. You wouldn’t want to run in 105°F without preparing, and neither should your AC.
4. Use Fans Smartly
Fans don’t lower the temperature. However, they do create a “wind-chill effect”; you feel cooler than the actual temperature. You can experience that for both ceiling and portable fans.
That means you can easily raise your thermostat by 2-3 degrees without noticing a difference.
For best results,
- Set the counterclockwise motion for ceiling fans in summer.
- Use fans only when you are in the room.
- Combine with AC for maximum comfort and efficiency.
If your HVAC system has to cool less, it can survive longer. This simple trick can be the difference maker between a system running 12 hours a day and a system running just 8.
5. Schedule Your Appliance Use
Heat appliances raise your indoor temperature, and the HVAC unit has to cool even more. During peak heat, it is more worrisome. Ovens, dryers, and even dishwashers release heat that adds to the load your AC has to handle.
Here’s what you can do:
- Use a microwave, an air fryer, or an outdoor grill for cooking during the day.
- Delay using dishwashers and laundry machines, preferably at night (when the AC isn’t as active).
- Switch to LED bulbs, which release far less heat than incandescents.
The goal here is to reduce extra heat generation as much as possible, and when not possible, avoid it during the hottest hours.
6. Upgrade to a High-Efficiency System
Sometimes the best way to beat the Dallas heat is to replace your old system entirely. Although it is a costly suggestion, it’s especially helpful if your AC is over 10-15 years old. This old AC is already costing you more in bills, is more likely to break down, and is going to cost you a lot in repairs.
Modern systems are always going to be more efficient. A bonus benefit would be if you could invest in a higher SEER unit. Especially in hot climates like North Texas, you can enjoy:
- Less energy usage for the same cooling
- Quiter and more consistent operation
- Advanced features like humidity control
7. Don’t Ignore Humidity
Dallas’s climate is officially humid subtropical. The humidity levels can spike even harder after summer storms. When the humidity is high, the warm air feels warmer.
If your AC has a dehumidification mode, use it. Otherwise, use a standalone dehumidifier.
An oversized AC cools too fast and can’t dehumidify properly. If your AC is oversized, you need to replace it with a perfectly fit one to tackle the humidity problem.
Proper humidity controls other air quality factors, too. It improves comfort, prevents mold growth, and protects wooden furniture and flooring.
8. Have a Backup Plan for Extreme Days
The relentless Texas heat isn’t forgiving. Even with the best preparation, your AC can fail. So, always have a backup plan so your family isn’t left at a loss.
You can prepare the backup with the following:
- Know where your breaker box and emergency shutoff are located (to restore or cut power off).
- Keep portable fans handy in case of sudden outages.
- Have a trusted HVAC company’s contact (like Lee Air Services) on ready for 24/7 emergency services.
Over the years, Lee Air Services has been a reliable lifeline for many Dallas families. You can call them at 817-438-3848 for any sort of HVAC emergencies.
Conclusion
Dallas heatwaves aren’t going anywhere. But with the right strategy, you don’t have to sweat through the summer. If you follow the tips mentioned in this article, you can stay comfortable and save a lot of money in your bank account.
Always take your checkups, repairs, and installations from a reputable contractor to prepare the best you can. If you want a veteran expert with decades of experience, Lee Air Services is available at 817-438-3848 or on their website.
