When Was the Hottest Day on Earth?
The hottest day on Earth was recorded on July 22, 2024, when temperatures soared to an unprecedented level, showing the ongoing challenging of climate change. This record breaking heat wave was felt across various regions, pushing the limits of our understanding of extreme weather patterns. Such temperatures not only highlight the severity of global warming but also emphasize the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate its impact on daily life.
In Western Washington, its fair to wonder if the summer heat justifies such an investment. We can acknowledge that our hot days have become more intense than previous years, getting to 110 degrees. With this kind of heat, humidity is a danger to your home, causing mold and other allergy related issues. At Green City Heating and Air, we will help you find the best solution to keep your home cool in these harsh climates in the Western Washington area.
How Extreme Heat Affects Air Conditioning Performance
When outdoor temperatures exceed 100°F , air conditioning systems can consume more energy and may begin to malfunction or fail. Which is why its crucial to pick the right air conditioning unit. Some major affects on air conditioning performance due to extreme heat include:
- Increased workload: Air conditioners have to work harder to maintain the set temperature in hot weather, this can lead to an overrun system and cause breakdowns.
- Increased energy use: Compressors work less efficiently i higher heat, requiring more power to operate, which can increase energy bills.
- Humidity: Humidity significantly affects your AC system’s performance. When humidity levels are high, your air conditioner must work harder to remove the moist air. If your AC lacks the necessary cooling capacity, you’ll see the impact, such as sweating, clammy skin, or frizzy hair.
- Refrigerant issues: Extreme heat can cause the refrigerant in your AC system to expand and contract, potentially leading to refrigerant leaks over time and reduce cooling performance.
Staying Cool: AC Tips for Surviving Record Temperatures
AC tips during extreme heat:
- Choosing the right size
- The size of your air conditioning is crucial for its performance in the heat. If properly sized, it can control humidity better and save energy. However, a unit that’s too large for your home can create moisture problems.
- Close windows and blinds
- The heat from the sun will warm your house, closing the blinds and curtains will help reduce the impact from the sun.
- Placement
- Your AC unit should not be located in an enclosed space, blocked airflow can cause refrigerant pressures in your AC unit to rise significantly, making the equipment run much hotter than it was designed for.
- Keep it running
- Don’t turn off your AC system, even at night. Running your AC at a higher temperature can help control the heat entering your home and reduce the burden on your unit.
- Change air filters
- Changing your AC filter every month, especially during heat waves, will allow the air to flow easier and run more efficiently.
- Maintain your AC
- Clean and repair your AC regularly to improve its lifetime and efficiency.
- Spraying the AC unit with water several times throughout the day can aid in keeping it cool and properly working.
Which Air Conditioner is best for your needs?
Our team can help you pick the right air conditioning solution for your home. All of our options have heating and cooling in one unit.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners cool the air inside your home by a process called refrigeration. Typically located outside of the house, however there are some indoor options. The system is connected to the central air ducting to distribute cool air throughout your home.
Heat Pumps
Because our summers have been getting hotter in Western Washington, many people are adding air conditioning to their HVAC system. Although the name is deceiving, heat pumps are a great investment that heats and cools. If you’re looking to replace or install a furnace, this is a perfect option. They are extremely energy efficient which means your utility bill be reduced greatly. At Green City Heating and Air we offer zero down financing options with 0% interest for those who apply.
Mini-Split Ductless System
If you don’t have a central heating and cooling system in place, then a mini-split ductless system is a great option. Specifically great for really old homes, manufactured homes, and mobile homes. Mini-split duct systems are very economical, energy efficient, affordable, easy to install, AND your utility bill will be greatly reduced.
In summary, we are experiencing major heat increases during the summer in Western Washington, making it ever most important to have the right cooling system in place. Extreme heat challenges air conditioning systems, increasing their workload, energy consumption, and potential for malfunctions. High temperatures can also affect refrigerate levels and humidity control. Tips for maintaining AC efficiency during heatwaves include choosing the right unit, closing the windows and blinds, proper unit placement, keeping the AC running, changing filters regularly, and maintaining the system. Options for air conditioning systems include traditional air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini-split ductless systems, each offering different benefits and financing options.
