Washington, DC is no stranger to intense summer heat, and with a major heat wave heading our way, it’s time to get serious about prepping your home and HVAC system.
A well-maintained cooling system isn’t just about comfort—it can help lower your energy bills, prevent breakdowns, and even protect your health during extreme heat.
Here’s how to make sure your home stays cool, safe, and efficient when the temperature soars:
1. Start with a Clean, Professionally Maintained AC System
Before anything else, schedule a professional AC maintenance visit with Vito Services. A properly tuned system runs more efficiently, cools more effectively, and is far less likely to break down when you need it most.
Our 17-point maintenance check includes:
Cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils
Checking refrigerant levels
Testing electrical connections and safety controls
Inspecting and replacing air filters
Ensuring proper airflow throughout your home
Whether you have a central air conditioner, furnace system, mini split, or heat pump, regular maintenance is key to reliable performance.
2. Replace Your Air Filters
Dirty filters are one of the top reasons HVAC systems struggle in hot weather. They restrict airflow, force the system to work harder, and reduce indoor air quality.
Pro tip:
Check your filters monthly and replace them every 1–3 months—especially during high-use seasons.
3. Add UV Lights or Air Scrubbers
Want to go the extra mile? Install UV lights or an air scrubber in your system to protect your indoor air quality and HVAC equipment.
These devices can:
Kill bacteria, mold, and viruses
Reduce dust and allergens
Keep your indoor coil and ductwork cleaner
Improve your HVAC system’s overall efficiency
4. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler.
Tip:
Set fans to spin counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air down.
5. Close the Blinds or Curtains in Hot Rooms
Direct sunlight heats up your home fast. Blocking it helps your AC work less and keeps rooms cooler.
Try:
Closing blinds or using blackout curtains during peak sun hours
Installing reflective window films
Adding insulated curtains for long-term energy savings
6. Avoid Using Heat-Producing Appliances
During a heat wave, using certain appliances can work against your AC.
Avoid using:
Ovens
Stove burners
Clothes dryers
Dishwashers during the day
Instead:
Use a microwave or grill outdoors
Run heat-producing appliances early in the morning or at night
7. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Properly
Cool air escapes quickly through gaps and poorly insulated areas.
Be sure to:
Seal windows and doors
Add insulation to attics and crawl spaces
Check for drafts around vents and outlets
Pro tip:
Have Vito’s HVAC pros inspect your ductwork—leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your cooled air.
Leave It to Vito!
The best time to prepare for extreme weather is before it hits. With DC gearing up for a serious heat wave, don’t wait to take action.
Protect your comfort, your energy bill, and your HVAC system.
Schedule your AC maintenance with Vito Services today.
📞 Call 240-907-5084 now and stay cool all summer long.
