Mauzy Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, and Electrical is proud to serve homeowners across San Diego County with expert cooling, heating, plumbing, and electrical solutions. When a Southern California heatwave strikes, air conditioners across the region go into overdrive — and for many homeowners, that’s when problems begin.
If your AC seems to struggle right when you need it most, you’re not alone. Understanding why your system has a hard time during extreme heat (and what to do about it) can help you stay cool, protect your equipment, and keep your energy bills manageable.
Why AC Systems Struggle in Extreme Heat
When temperatures soar past 90°F — common in areas like El Cajon, Santee, and inland San Diego — your air conditioner must work harder to maintain indoor comfort. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
1. Reduced Heat Exchange Efficiency
Air conditioners rely on the temperature difference between indoor and outdoor air to release heat. During heatwaves, outdoor air is hotter, making it harder for your system to expel heat effectively.
2. Overworked Compressors
Your compressor is the heart of your system. When it runs nonstop for hours or days, it experiences extra stress that can lead to overheating or premature wear.
3. Refrigerant Pressure Spikes
High outdoor temperatures increase refrigerant pressure, which can trigger system safety shutoffs or cause cooling performance to drop.
4. Dirty Coils and Filters
Heat amplifies existing maintenance issues. Dirty coils or clogged air filters reduce airflow and make cooling less efficient — often leading to frozen coils or short cycling.
Signs Your AC Is Struggling
If you notice any of the following during a heatwave, your system may be overworked or in need of professional attention:
- The thermostat never reaches the set temperature
- Warm air blowing from vents
- Weak or inconsistent airflow
- Strange noises or vibrations
- Rising energy bills despite similar usage
Ignoring these signs can lead to major breakdowns right when repair appointments are in high demand.
How to Help Your AC Perform Better in Heatwaves
1. Replace Air Filters Regularly
A clean filter allows smooth airflow, helping your system breathe and cool more effectively. During the summer, check your filter every 30 days.
2. Shade and Protect the Outdoor Unit
If possible, create shade around your condenser with landscaping or an awning (without blocking airflow). Shaded units can operate up to 10% more efficiently in extreme heat.
3. Close Curtains and Blinds During Peak Hours
Blocking direct sunlight between noon and 4 PM can significantly reduce indoor heat gain — giving your AC a much-needed break.
4. Raise the Thermostat a Few Degrees
Setting your thermostat to 76–78°F keeps your system running efficiently while maintaining comfortable indoor conditions. Each degree below that can raise energy use by up to 3–5%.
5. Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Before the hottest months arrive, schedule a professional AC tune-up with Mauzy. Our technicians inspect coils, test refrigerant levels, and ensure your system is ready for high-demand conditions.
6. Consider a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats automatically adjust cooling patterns based on weather forecasts and occupancy, helping prevent your system from overworking on scorching days.
When to Call a Professional
If your AC is short cycling, blowing warm air, or tripping breakers during a heatwave, it’s time to call a licensed technician. Continuing to run an overstrained system can cause compressor damage — one of the most expensive HVAC repairs.
Mauzy’s team offers same-day service across San Diego County, including diagnostics and emergency repairs during high-demand periods.
Long-Term Solutions for Better Heatwave Performance
If your system struggles every summer, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Modern high-efficiency and variable-speed systems are designed to handle extreme heat more effectively, maintaining steady temperatures without overworking.
Pairing a new system with:
- Proper insulation
- Zoned cooling
- Smart home integration
…creates the ultimate comfort solution for San Diego’s climate. Mauzy’s experts can assess your home and design a system that performs flawlessly — even during the most intense heatwaves.
Why San Diego Homeowners Trust Mauzy
As a family-owned, community-driven company, Mauzy has served San Diego County for decades with reliable, energy-efficient HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services. Our licensed technicians bring a personal touch to every job, ensuring your comfort and safety come first.
From preventative maintenance to full system replacements, Mauzy delivers craftsmanship, honesty, and results you can feel.
Call to Action
Feeling the heat? Don’t wait for your AC to fail.
Call Mauzy today for expert HVAC service, maintenance, or system upgrades anywhere in San Diego County.Want peace of mind before the next heatwave?
Schedule your preventative tune-up with Mauzy and experience comfort done right — no matter how hot it gets outside.