Beat the Heat: Tips for Efficient Air Conditioning in Summer

As temperatures soar during a Pittsburgh summer, your air conditioning system becomes your best friend. But running it at full blast all season long can put a strain on both your equipment and your energy bills. At Van Bremen’s Heat & Air, we want to help you stay cool efficiently—saving money and avoiding wear and tear on your system. Whether you're running central air or a ductless unit, these tips will help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

1. Schedule a Pre-Summer HVAC Tune-Up

Your air conditioner works hard during the summer, so make sure it’s ready before the heat hits. A professional AC tune-up from Van Bremen’s Heat & Air includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, inspecting electrical components, and optimizing airflow. This not only improves performance but can also extend the life of your system and catch minor issues before they turn into major breakdowns.

Pro Tip: Schedule your annual maintenance early—spring is ideal!

2. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly

One of the easiest ways to maintain AC efficiency is to check your air filters every 30–60 days. Dirty filters reduce airflow, forcing your system to work harder and increasing energy use.

Van Bremen Recommends: Use high-quality, pleated filters for better air quality and performance. Ask us which filters work best for your system.

3. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Modern thermostats do more than just set the temperature—they help you optimize energy usage. A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature based on your schedule, while smart thermostats learn your habits and automatically adjust settings for maximum efficiency.

Energy Saving Tip: Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away to reduce energy usage without sacrificing comfort.

4. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean and Clear

Your outdoor condenser unit needs breathing room to work efficiently. Check for leaves, weeds, or debris that may be blocking airflow and keep at least two feet of space clear around it.

Regular cleaning helps prevent overheating and allows your system to cool your home more effectively.

5. Use Ceiling Fans to Boost Circulation

Ceiling fans can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler by circulating air, reducing your dependence on your AC. Just make sure the fan is set to spin counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air down.

This small step can make a big impact on your comfort and cooling costs.

6. Seal and Insulate Your Home

Leaky windows, doors, and poorly insulated attics allow cool air to escape and hot air to seep in. Use weather stripping, caulk, and proper insulation to keep conditioned air inside where it belongs.

This improves both comfort and energy efficiency all year round.

7. Consider an AC System Upgrade

If your air conditioner is over 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider a high-efficiency replacement. New ENERGY STAR®-rated systems can dramatically lower your energy bills while keeping your home cooler and quieter.

Not sure if you need a replacement? Schedule a consultation with Van Bremen’s Heat & Air—we’ll assess your current system and recommend the best solution for your home and budget.

8. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

Unusual noises, poor airflow, or rising energy bills could indicate an issue with your AC system. Addressing problems early prevents costly repairs and keeps your system running efficiently when you need it most.

Call Van Bremen’s if you notice anything off—we’re here to help with fast, reliable service.

Stay Cool With Help From Van Bremen’s Heat & Air

Keeping your AC system in peak condition is the key to surviving the summer heat without skyrocketing utility bills. Whether you need maintenance, a repair, or a whole new system, Van Bremen’s Heat & Air is your trusted local HVAC partner in Pittsburgh.

Contact us today to schedule your seasonal maintenance or learn more about energy-efficient cooling solutions!