If you live in Houston, you know that summer isn’t just a season—it’s an endurance test. With the humidity soaring and the heat index often climbing well above 100 degrees, staying cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety.
At JW East Mechanical, we’ve been keeping Houston homes comfortable for years. We know exactly what the Texas sun can do to your utility bills, your AC unit, and your well-being. Here is our comprehensive guide on how to protect yourself, your home, and your furry friends during the hottest months of the year.
1. Protect Yourself: Stay Cool and Hydrated
The Houston heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke faster than you might think.
- Hydrate Early and Often: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. If you’re spending time outdoors, aim for 8 ounces of water every 15–20 minutes.
- Time Your Outings: Avoid heavy outdoor activity between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when the sun is at its peak. If you need to do yard work or exercise, aim for sunrise or sunset.
- Dress for the Climate: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing (like cotton or linen) to help your body regulate its temperature.
- Know the Signs: If you feel dizzy, nauseated, or develop a headache, get to a cool area immediately.
2. Protect Your Home: Efficiency is Key
Your air conditioner is the MVP of your home during a Texas summer. To keep it running smoothly and keep your energy bills from skyrocketing, follow these tips:
- Schedule a Summer Tune-Up: A struggling AC unit consumes more energy and is prone to breaking down when you need it most. Have a professional from JW East Mechanical inspect your system to ensure it’s charged, clean, and ready for the heat.
- Change Your Filters: In the summer, your AC runs almost constantly. Check your air filters every 30 days. A clogged filter restricts airflow and puts unnecessary strain on your system.
- Manage Your Windows: Keep your blinds or curtains closed during the day, especially on windows that face south or west. This prevents the “greenhouse effect” from heating up your living room.
- The 20-Degree Rule: Remember that most AC units are designed to cool your home to about 20 degrees cooler than the outside temperature. If it’s 100°F outside, your AC will struggle to hit 68°F. Setting your thermostat to a reasonable 75°F–78°F can prevent your system from freezing up or burning out.
3. Protect Your Pets: They Feel the Heat Too
Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, and they are much more susceptible to heatstroke than humans.
- The Pavement Test: Before a walk, touch the pavement with the back of your hand. If you can’t hold it there for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Stick to the grass or walk during the early morning/late evening.
- Never Leave Them in the Car: Even with the windows cracked, a car in Houston can reach 120 degrees in minutes. It is never worth the risk.
- Fresh Water Access: Ensure your pets have access to plenty of fresh, cool water at all times. If they stay outside, they must have deep shade and a constant breeze.
- Watch for Overheating: Heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing are emergency signs. Use cool (not ice-cold) water to lower their temperature and call a vet immediately.
Stay Cool with JW East Mechanical
Don’t wait for your AC to fail in the middle of a July heatwave. Whether you need a routine maintenance check, a quick repair, or a full system replacement, JW East Mechanical is here to serve our Houston neighbors.
Is your home feeling a little too warm? Give us a call today to schedule your AC inspection and stay cool all summer long!