High humidity can make summer feel unbearable—and it doesn’t just affect your comfort. Excess moisture in the air can put extra strain on your HVAC system, leading to poor performance and rising energy costs. Fortunately, there are a few smart ways to keep things running smoothly and improve indoor comfort during those sticky Missouri months.

Keep Your Air Filters Clean

A clogged air filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder than it needs to. During summer, when your system runs more frequently, filters can get dirty fast. We recommend checking them monthly and replacing them if they’re dusty or discolored.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Setting your thermostat to adjust automatically based on your schedule can reduce the load on your HVAC system during peak humidity hours. Slight adjustments—like raising the temperature a few degrees when you’re away—can help your system run more efficiently and reduce unnecessary cycling.

Seal and Insulate Your Home

Air leaks and poor insulation let humid outdoor air sneak inside. This adds extra work for your HVAC system as it tries to balance indoor temperatures and moisture levels. Sealing gaps around doors, windows, and ductwork helps maintain consistent airflow and comfort.

Check the Drain Line

Your HVAC system removes moisture from the air as it cools. That water has to go somewhere, and usually it drains through a small pipe. If this line gets clogged, moisture can back up and lead to higher humidity in your home. A quick inspection of the drain line during regular maintenance can prevent this.

Run Ceiling Fans

While fans don’t cool the air, they help circulate it, which makes you feel cooler and allows your HVAC system to run at a lower setting. Reversing the fan direction in summer—so it spins counterclockwise—creates a breeze effect that pairs well with your system’s cooling.

Schedule Routine Maintenance

Professional AC maintenance is one of the best things you can do to optimize system performance. A technician can check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and spot potential problems before they lead to costly breakdowns.

At AFC Heating and Cooling, we help homeowners in Lee’s Summit stay comfortable all summer long with expert HVAC services tailored to humid conditions. We also offer an HVAC maintenance plan to make it easy to optimize your system while saving money. If you’re ready to improve your system’s performance and lower your energy bills, contact us today to schedule a tune-up or consultation.

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