9 Common Summer HVAC Issues (And How To Prevent Them)

Summer in Washington can push your HVAC system to its limits. As outdoor temperatures rise, your air conditioner works harder to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. If it’s not running efficiently, you could be facing breakdowns, high energy bills — or worse. At Apex Air, we want to help you stay cool and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Let’s explore some of the most common AC problems in summer — and what you can do to stop them before they start.

1. Clogged Air Filters

Dust, pollen and other particles can quickly clog your air filter, reducing airflow and forcing your AC system to work harder. Left unchecked, this can reduce efficiency, increase your energy bill, and cause wear and tear on your system’s components.

Prevention Tip:
Check your air filters every 30–90 days and replace them as needed. This small maintenance task can improve performance and extend the life of your HVAC system.

2. Low or Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is what helps your system absorb and remove heat from your home. If there’s a leak or the refrigerant level drops, you may notice poor cooling performance, warm air blowing from vents or even ice forming on your evaporator coil.

Prevention Tip:
Schedule annual maintenance to check for refrigerant issues. Only a certified HVAC technician can safely handle refrigerant and recharge your system to factory specs.

3. Dirty Condenser Coils

The outdoor unit’s condenser coils release the heat your system pulls from inside. If they’re coated in dirt, leaves or grass clippings, the system can’t expel heat effectively — which forces your AC to run longer and harder.

Prevention Tip:
Clear debris away from the outdoor unit and rinse coils gently with a garden hose. Schedule seasonal cleanings to ensure optimal performance.

4. Electrical Component Failures

Summer heat can place a heavy load on your system’s electrical parts. Capacitors, contactors and circuit boards may overheat, leading to AC short cycling, inconsistent cooling or a total system failure.

Prevention Tip:
A pre-season inspection from Apex Air can identify worn or overheating components before they lead to bigger problems.

5. Thermostat Issues

A malfunctioning or misconfigured thermostat can throw off your entire HVAC system. You might experience uneven temperatures, short cycling or an AC that simply won’t turn on.

Prevention Tip:
Place thermostats away from heat sources like windows or appliances, and consider upgrading to a smart or programmable model to optimize cooling and energy efficiency.

6. Clogged Drain Lines

Your air conditioner removes moisture from the air, which drains through a condensate line. If that line clogs, you could see water pooling around the unit or signs of mold growth.

Prevention Tip:
Pour vinegar, followed by water, into the drain line access point once a month, and keep an eye out for damp areas near your indoor AC unit. Also be sure to have the drain line flushed during annual maintenance.

7. Weak Airflow

Weak airflow is one of the most common AC problems in summer. It can stem from a variety of causes including clogged filters, duct obstructions or a struggling blower motor.

Prevention Tip:
Change filters regularly, keep vents unblocked and schedule duct cleaning if you suspect buildup is restricting airflow.

8. Excessive Humidity

Washington summers can be humid, and your AC might not be enough to keep indoor moisture in check. High humidity makes your home feel hotter, triggers allergies and encourages mold growth.

Prevention Tip:
Consider installing a whole-home dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity and take stress off your AC system.

9. Unusual Noises or Smells

Clanking, squealing or buzzing sounds could point to loose components or failing motors. Musty or burning smells may indicate mold or electrical issues.

Prevention Tip:
Never ignore strange noises or odors. Schedule an inspection to diagnose the issue before it becomes a serious (and costly) repair.

Prevent Problems Before They Start

Routine maintenance is the key to avoiding many of these common AC problems in Washington summers. A professional tune-up before the season begins can identify small issues, boost efficiency and keep your system running smoothly when you need it most.

Stay Ahead of Summer HVAC Trouble

Your HVAC system should bring you relief — not headaches. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, or your system hasn’t received summer maintenance, contact the experts at Apex Air today! We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Washington with trusted, reliable cooling solutions to keep you comfortable all season long.

10 Home Air Cooling Hacks Without Overworking Your AC

During the hot summer months in Washington State, it’s tempting to keep your air conditioner running around the clock. But constant AC use can wear out your system prematurely and send your energy bills skyrocketing. At Apex Air, we believe staying cool doesn’t have to come at the expense of your comfort — or your wallet. If you’ve been wondering how to keep your home cool without overworking your AC in summer, you’re in the right place.

Here are some practical, energy-efficient tips to help you stay cool and extend the life of your HVAC system.

1. Make the Most of Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are one of the simplest ways to circulate cool air. Just make sure they’re set to rotate counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes air downward and creates a wind chill effect, helping you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.

2. Block Out Direct Sunlight

Sunlight streaming through your windows can increase indoor temperatures by up to 10 degrees. Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. For an added boost, consider installing reflective window tint to reduce solar heat gain while still enjoying natural light.

3. Limit Heat-Producing Activities

Appliances like ovens, stoves, dryers and even incandescent light bulbs generate heat. Alternative options:

  • Grill outdoors instead of cooking inside.
  • Hang-dry laundry to avoid running your dryer.
  • Use LED bulbs instead of incandescent ones.
  • Unplug unused electronics, which generate heat even in standby mode.

4. Use Exhaust Fans Strategically

Turn on kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans while cooking or showering. These fans pull excess heat and humidity out of your home, making it easier for your AC to maintain a consistent temperature.

5. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Drafty windows and doors let warm air in and cool air out. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal leaks, and check your attic insulation. Upgrading insulation keeps hot air out and cool air in, reducing your AC’s workload.

6. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats allow you to schedule temperature changes throughout the day. For example, raise the temperature when you’re away and lower it just before you return home. This can lead to increased energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

7. Control Indoor Humidity

Excess humidity makes the air feel warmer and harder to cool. Your AC removes some moisture, but in humid conditions, a whole-home dehumidifier can ease the burden. Lowering indoor humidity not only improves comfort but also helps prevent mold and mildew.

8. Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

A clogged air filter forces your AC to work harder than necessary. Replace filters every 1–3 months, and make sure your ducts are clean and free of obstructions. Regular maintenance by a professional technician ensures your system runs efficiently and catches small issues before they become costly repairs.

9. Let in Cool Air Naturally

Take advantage of cooler mornings and evenings by opening windows and creating cross-ventilation. Just remember to close everything up before the heat of the day sets in to trap the cool air inside.

10. Schedule Professional AC Service

Sometimes, your system may already be overworked. If it’s struggling to keep up, making strange noises, or blowing warm air, it’s time to call in the experts. A seasonal check-up can ensure your AC is ready to perform efficiently all summer long.

Stay Cool and Save Energy with Apex Air

Now that you know how to keep your home cool without overworking your AC in summer, you can enjoy greater comfort, lower bills and a longer-lasting HVAC system. But if your air conditioner isn’t keeping up or you’re noticing signs of strain, don’t wait for the problem to get worse.

Contact the experts at Apex Air for air conditioning service, maintenance or repairs. We’re here to help you stay cool, energy-efficient and comfortable all season long.