Summer in Southlake, TX, can feel like stepping into a pressure cooker—soaring temperatures, high humidity, and a sun that doesn’t quit. When heat spikes past 95°F and patches of humidity hover around 60%, your cooling system works overtime. Preparing for that heat isn’t just smart—it’s essential to stay cool, avoid breakdowns, and keep energy bills in check.
Getting ready now means fewer sweat-filled moments and fewer emergency calls in July or August. From checking key system parts to smart scheduling, the small steps outlined here help you stay comfortable and stress-free throughout the entire season.
Inspect and Tune Up Your Cooling System
Before summer hits full tilt, schedule a professional checkup. A trained tech will clean coils, test refrigerant levels, and ensure thermostats are accurate. This prep helps your system cool efficiently, boosts performance, and cuts energy waste. A clean cooling unit runs more smoothly and lasts longer, which saves you money in the long run. Even simple tasks, such as removing debris around outdoor units, can improve airflow and reduce strain. Think of it as a summer workout for your cooling setup: a quick check now prevents major falls later.
Get a Professional to Inspect Your Cooling System
Get a Professional to Inspect Your Cooling System
Even if everything seems fine, a system check by an expert can catch problems you might not notice. A trained technician knows how to look for signs of wear, low refrigerant levels, and parts that need cleaning or adjustment. Professional inspections help prevent breakdowns during the hottest part of the year and keep your system running efficiently. Have a trusted air conditioning company in Southlake, TX, inspect your system. Their certified technicians handle full inspections, tune-ups, and repairs, drawing on years of experience in handling the tough Texas heat. They ensure your system runs at peak performance so you stay comfortable all summer.
Replace or Clean Filters Regularly
Dirty filters block airflow, causing your system to work harder and leading to shorter cycles and higher energy consumption. To stay efficient, aim to replace or clean your filter every 1–3 months, especially during heavy use. Select filters with MERV ratings that are suitable for removing dust and pollen without compromising airflow. Checking filters now means fewer clogs and better performance when the heat is at its worst. Keep a filter schedule: mark dates on your calendar or set a reminder on your phone. Clean filters help your setup run smoothly and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Seal Ducts and Check Insulation
Leaky ducts allow cooled air to escape into attics or crawl spaces, reducing the effectiveness of your system. Sealing those leaks saves energy and improves comfort. Grab a flashlight, inspect visible ductwork, and seal gaps with metal tape or mastic sealant. You may need a pro to handle tight spots or hard-to-reach ducts. Insulation matters too. Well-insulated attics and ceilings keep heat from seeping in. Add or replace insulation where it’s thin or damaged. With proper sealing and insulation, you’ll keep more cool air circulating where it belongs and reduce energy waste on hot days.
Install Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats do more than adjust temperature—they help you save. You can set higher temps when no one is around, and have it lower just before you return. This prevents cooling an empty space and keeps energy costs down. New models also send filter reminders, track usage, and even send alerts if readings are off. You can control settings from your phone, so you’re always in charge. With scheduling, weekly patterns, and geofencing, your setup works smarter, not harder, helping you stay comfy without overpaying.
Check Windows and Doors for Drafts
Cool air escaping around windows and doors can quickly undo your system’s hard work. Before summer peaks, inspect weatherstripping for cracks or gaps. If you can see light or feel a draft, it’s time to replace seals. Applying fresh weatherstripping or caulk around frames helps keep cool air inside and blocks warm air from sneaking in. Even small gaps can raise energy costs. By sealing these trouble spots early, you can improve comfort, reduce energy waste, and help your cooling system operate more efficiently while maintaining steady indoor temperatures.
Use Ceiling Fans Effectively
Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they make a room feel cooler by circulating air and creating a breeze effect. In the summer, ensure the fan blades spin counterclockwise to push cool air downward. Fans help reduce the load on your cooling system, allowing you to raise your thermostat setting by a few degrees and still feel comfortable. Run fans only in occupied rooms to avoid wasting electricity. This simple tip can help you feel cooler, reduce energy use, and make your indoor spaces more pleasant during the hottest days.
Manage Indoor Humidity Levels
Summer heat often brings high humidity, making rooms feel sticky and uncomfortable. Managing humidity inside helps you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat too much. A whole-house dehumidifier or a portable unit in problem areas like basements or bathrooms can pull out excess moisture. Keep humidity between 30–50% for ideal comfort. Reducing humidity also protects furniture and helps prevent mold growth. By controlling moisture, you help your cooling system work efficiently and create a healthier indoor environment.
Shade and Protect Outdoor Units
Outdoor cooling units can’t do their job properly if they’re baking in the sun or surrounded by weeds. Before the summer heat arrives, clear vegetation, grass, and debris around your unit to allow for good airflow. If possible, add a light shade structure—like an awning or strategically planted shrubs—that won’t block airflow but will reduce direct sunlight. Shading the unit can improve its efficiency and reduce strain on its components, keeping things running smoothly even during the hottest afternoons.
Prepare Outdoor Living Spaces
Your outdoor areas matter too. Shade patios and decks with umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas to keep outdoor temperatures lower. This makes your yard more enjoyable and helps reduce the heat that radiates into indoor spaces near windows and doors. Potted plants and trees placed around patios can help block direct sun. These steps enable you to enjoy time outside while also maintaining indoor comfort, creating a seamless and relaxing space for entertaining or unwinding after a long day.
Preparing for Texas summers means examining your entire space, from ducts to doors to outdoor units. Small steps, such as sealing drafts or installing a smart thermostat, reduce energy waste while enhancing comfort. The earlier you start, the better your results. With just a little care, your space can stay cool, efficient, and ready to handle whatever summer brings, letting you relax, enjoy the season, and stay comfortable all summer long.
