Staying Cool During a Heatwave: Expert Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

With temperatures reaching high levels this week, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions and avoid common mistakes during a heatwave. Staying cool and safe in extreme heat requires a combination of proper strategies and avoiding actions that can exacerbate the situation. To help you beat the heat, we have compiled expert advice from our HVAC specialists, as well as information from reputable sources like universities and the U.S. Government. Let’s explore what to do and what not to do during a heatwave.

What Not To Do In A Heatwave:

Relying solely on fans for cooling: While fans create air flow and offer some comfort, they do not lower body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses. It’s essential to have other cooling measures in place, such as air conditioning or access to cooling centers in your community. [Source: CDC]

Leaving people or pets in a closed car: Never leave anyone, including pets, in a parked car during warm weather, as the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly and become life-threatening. Always find a cooler place for yourself and your pets. [Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Overlooking the importance of a dehumidifier: High humidity can make a room feel warmer and uncomfortable. Using a dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air, making the room feel cooler and more pleasant. [Source: Home Alliance]

Running your AC on too low a temperature: Setting your air conditioner to extremely low temperatures will strain the unit, leading to higher energy bills and decreased efficiency. Opt for a reasonable temperature difference between the internal and external environment to balance comfort and energy consumption. [Source: Tonna Mechanical]

Using electric fans as the sole cooling method: Electric fans create a breeze that provides temporary relief, but they don’t actually cool the air in the room. When temperatures exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, fans may even contribute to heat gain. Combine fans with other cooling methods like air conditioning or natural ventilation for better results. [Source: HVAC Laboratory]

What To Do During a Heatwave:

Seek cool places: Identify locations in your community, such as libraries or shopping malls, where you can go to escape the heat. Contact your local health department for information about cooling centers. [Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security]

Recognize the signs of heat illness: Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and confusion, which could indicate heat-related illnesses. Act promptly and seek medical attention if needed. [Source: CDC]

Dress appropriately: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to stay comfortable and reduce heat absorption. Wide-brimmed hats can also provide extra protection from the sun. [Source: CDC]

Hydrate regularly: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration. [Source: CDC]

Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours: Refrain from engaging in high-energy activities or working outdoors during midday heat, typically between 11 am and 4 pm. Opt for early morning or late evening activities when temperatures are cooler. [Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

How to Prepare Your A/C for a Heatwave

Preparing for a Heat Wave: A Family Guide to Staying Safe and Cool.

As summer reaches its peak, so does the possibility of heat waves. Extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for families with children and older adults. To protect your loved ones and ensure their well-being during scorching temperatures, it’s crucial to prepare in advance. This blog post will provide essential tips on getting your family ready for a heat wave, ensuring everyone stays safe and cool throughout the hot days.

Stay Informed
To start your preparations, stay informed about weather forecasts and heat advisories issued by local authorities. These alerts will give you an idea of the expected intensity and duration of the heat wave. Keep an eye on updates so you can plan accordingly.

Create a Family Emergency Plan
Develop a family emergency plan specific to heat waves. Involve all household members in the planning process to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of extreme heat-related emergencies. Your plan should include:

• Identifying nearby cooling centers or friends/family members’ homes where you can seek refuge if your home lacks air conditioning.
• Ensuring you have essential emergency supplies, such as water, non-perishable food, and first-aid items.
• Designating a family member to check on vulnerable individuals, such as older adults or those with medical conditions, during the heat wave.

Prepare Your Home
Prepare your home to create a cooler environment during the heat wave:

• Install window shades or blackout curtains to block out direct sunlight during the day’s hottest hours.
• If you don’t have air conditioning, consider investing in portable fans or evaporative coolers to circulate air in your living spaces.
• Check and maintain your air conditioning system to ensure it’s in proper working condition. Consider scheduling a professional inspection to avoid last-minute issues.

Preparing Your A/C for a Heatwave

During a heatwave, your air conditioning system becomes a lifeline for comfort. To ensure your cooling system is ready to perform at its best when needed, consider scheduling an A/C tune-up with Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling. Recommended by the EPA, US Department of Energy, ENERGY STAR, and local utility companies, an annual air conditioner tune-up can boost your system’s efficiency and save you money on energy bills.

At Hillside, we understand the importance of a properly maintained cooling system during heat waves. Our HVAC technicians have the expertise to tune up various cooling systems, including central air conditioning units, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits. With our team’s training, certifications, and knowledge, you can trust that your cooling system is in capable hands.

What’s Included in Hillside’s Air Conditioner Tune-Up?

Our comprehensive A/C tune-up is designed to optimize your cooling system’s performance and enhance its longevity. For just $99, Hillside’s air conditioner tune-up includes the following services:

1. Clean condenser coil
2. Clean indoor coil (where accessible)
3. Oil and inspect motors
4. Inspect wiring and tighten electrical connections
5. Check capacitor
6. Check contactor
7. Check and change the air filter (customer-supplied)
8. Clear condensate drain line
9. Inspect refrigerant lines connections
10. Check system refrigerant charge
11. Check the thermostat for proper operation
12. Check supply and return air temperatures
13. Check the amp draw of the compressor
14. Check the amp draw of the condenser motor
15. Check the amp draw of the blower motor

Please note that parts needed for repair or optimal performance, including refrigerant, are not included in the $99 tune-up fee. Additionally, Hillside does not supply air filters due to the vast variety of sizes and shapes available. However, we are happy to clean or change the air filter if you provide an extra one.

Invest in Your Cooling System’s Efficiency:

An A/C tune-up from Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling invests in your cooling system’s efficiency, reliability, and overall performance. Not only can regular maintenance save you money on energy bills, but it can also provide you with insights into your system’s lifespan, allowing you to plan for any future replacements proactively.

Don’t wait for your cooling system to break down during a heatwave; schedule your A/C tune-up with Hillside today! Call us at 302-738-4144 (DE&PA) or 410-398-2146 (MD) if your air conditioning system makes loud or strange noises. Stay cool and comfortable all summer long with Hillside’s top-notch HVAC services.

Hillside’s 70 Years of Experience

Working with certified HVAC professionals is paramount when it comes to installing, maintaining, and repairing your central air unit. These experts possess the knowledge, training, and experience required to navigate the complexities of modern HVAC systems.

With seven decades of experience, Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling has built a strong foundation of trust and reliability in the industry. Over the years, they have honed their expertise, fine-tuned their services, and adapted to changing market dynamics.

Their long-standing presence in the market is a testament to their dedication to customer satisfaction and excellence in every aspect of their business. When you choose Hillside, you partner with a company that has withstood the test of time and continues delivering exceptional results.

Over 2,500 Customer Reviews – A True Measure of Excellence
In today’s digital age, customer reviews are crucial in shaping a company’s reputation. With over 2,500 positive customer reviews, Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling has earned the trust and praise of a vast clientele.

These reviews reflect the experiences of satisfied customers who have benefitted from Hillside’s reliable services, transparent communication, and top-notch installations. Such positive feedback is a powerful endorsement of Hillside’s commitment to customer satisfaction and attests to its exceptional performance.

Selecting the right central air unit is a decision that affects your comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality for years to come. By partnering with Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling, you are choosing a company with over 70 years of experience, a team of certified HVAC professionals, and a stellar reputation backed by over 2,500 satisfied customers.

Don’t compromise on your HVAC needs; let the experts at Hillside guide you towards the perfect central air unit for your property. With their unwavering commitment to excellence, you can trust that your heating and cooling system is in the best hands possible. Experience the difference that over seven decades of industry expertise can make – choose Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling today.