How to Boost Your AC Efficiency This Summer

Summer in Nashville brings soaring temperatures—and your air conditioner has to work overtime to keep up. But if your system isn’t running efficiently, that extra effort can lead to higher energy bills and less comfort at home. Fortunately, there are simple, effective ways to improve AC performance without replacing your entire unit. From smart thermostat use to routine maintenance, small adjustments can have a big impact. The Maynard Man is here to help you get the most out of your cooling system with tips that save energy, reduce wear and tear, and keep your home consistently comfortable. Here’s how to boost your AC efficiency and stay cool all summer long.

Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up

If you only do one thing to improve your AC’s performance this summer—make it a professional tune-up. Just like your car needs regular oil changes, your air conditioner needs seasonal maintenance to stay in top shape. A tune-up gives your system a full checkup, catching small issues before they turn into big problems.

During a Maynard AC tune-up, our technicians will:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Check and adjust refrigerant levels
• Inspect electrical components and tighten connections
• Lubricate moving parts
• Test thermostat accuracy and system controls

These steps help your system run more efficiently, cool more effectively, and last longer. Plus, regular maintenance reduces your risk of mid-season breakdowns—when you need your AC the most.

Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly

One of the simplest—and most important—ways to boost your AC’s efficiency is by keeping the air filter clean. When your filter is clogged with dust, pet hair, or debris, it restricts airflow. That makes your system work harder to push cool air through your home, using more energy and reducing overall performance.

To keep things running smoothly:

• Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use
• Replace it every 1–3 months, depending on your household (pets and allergies may require more frequent changes)
• Use high-quality filters rated for your system type
• Consider HEPA filters or electrostatic filters for improved air quality

A clean filter helps your system breathe easier—which means better airflow, cooler air, and lower energy bills.

Use Your Thermostat Strategically

Your thermostat plays a big role in how efficiently your AC performs—especially during Nashville’s hot, humid summers. With a few simple adjustments, you can reduce energy usage without sacrificing comfort.

Raise the Temperature When You’re Away

There’s no need to cool an empty house. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you’re at work or out for the day. Even a 5–7 degree difference can lead to noticeable energy savings over time.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust cooling automatically based on your schedule. Many models offer remote control via smartphone, usage reports, and energy-saving settings. Plus, they help eliminate the guesswork from temperature management—keeping your home comfortable and efficient, even when you’re not thinking about it.

Using your thermostat wisely helps your AC run less often and for shorter cycles, which means lower bills and less strain on your system.

Seal and Insulate Your Home

Even the most efficient air conditioner can’t keep up if your home is leaking cool air. Gaps, cracks, and poor insulation allow heat to sneak in and conditioned air to escape—forcing your AC to work harder than necessary.

To improve efficiency and keep cool air where it belongs:

• Seal windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to block drafts
• Close gaps around plumbing and wiring where they enter your home
• Insulate attics, crawl spaces, and walls to slow heat transfer
• Use thermal curtains or blinds to block sunlight during the hottest parts of the day
• Keep windows closed during peak heat hours, especially in the afternoon

A well-sealed home holds onto cooled air longer, giving your AC a well-deserved break—and helping you enjoy a more consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the day.

Use Ceiling Fans to Support Cooling

Ceiling fans don’t actually lower the temperature—but they make you feel cooler by circulating air across your skin. When used properly, they can help your AC run less often without sacrificing comfort.

Here’s how to make the most of your fans:

• Set fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer—this pushes cool air downward
• Use fans in occupied rooms only—they cool people, not spaces
• Raise your thermostat by a few degrees while running ceiling fans to save energy without feeling the difference
• Turn them off when you leave the room to avoid wasting electricity

By pairing ceiling fans with your air conditioning, you can reduce cooling costs while keeping your home feeling fresh and comfortable all summer long.

Consider System Upgrades If Your AC Is Older

Even with perfect maintenance, older AC units can only do so much. If your system is 10–15 years old—or if it’s constantly struggling to keep up—it may be time to start thinking about an upgrade. Today’s high-efficiency systems are designed to cool better while using less energy.

Here’s what modern AC systems have to offer:

• Higher SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for better performance
• Variable-speed motors that adjust output based on your home’s needs
• Smart thermostat compatibility for hands-off comfort and control
• Quieter operation and improved airflow throughout your home
• Enhanced humidity control to help you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat

While a new system is an investment, it can pay off in energy savings, fewer repairs, and greater comfort—especially during Tennessee’s hottest months.

Wrap Up: Stay Cool Without Wasting Energy

Boosting your AC efficiency doesn’t have to mean replacing your whole system—it starts with smart habits, seasonal maintenance, and small upgrades that make a big difference. From changing your air filter to sealing up drafts and scheduling a professional tune-up, these simple steps can help your air conditioner run smoother, last longer, and cost less to operate.

The Maynard Man is here to make sure your home stays cool and comfortable—without draining your wallet. Whether your system needs a quick fix or it’s time for an upgrade, our team is ready to help you make the most of your AC this summer.

Want to get your system in shape for the season? Contact Maynard Plumbing, Heating, Cooling today and schedule your AC tune-up with Nashville’s trusted comfort experts.