Simple Tips to Help Your Home Stay Comfortable During Peak Cooling Season

As temperatures and humidity rise across the South, your HVAC system begins working harder and longer each day. A few simple homeowner maintenance practices can help improve comfort, support system performance, and help prevent unnecessary moisture-related concerns during summer months.

Replace HVAC Filters Regularly

Your HVAC filter plays a major role in airflow and overall system performance.

Change all applicable filters monthly, including:

• Main return air filters
• Bedroom return air filters
• Fresh air intake filters in the attic
• Media filters at attic HVAC units

Restricted airflow can reduce cooling performance and increase indoor humidity levels.

Some Manuel Builders homes utilize only one primary HVAC filter location. If your system includes a filter at the attic unit, additional restrictive filters at ceiling return grilles may negatively affect airflow and should not be used.

Clean Condensate Drain Lines

During summer operation, your HVAC system removes significant humidity from the air. That moisture drains through the condensate line connected to your system.

Over time, algae and debris can accumulate inside the line and potentially cause slow drainage or overflow conditions.

Recommended Routine Homeowner Maintenance:

• Flush accessible condensate drain lines with warm water and white vinegar every few months
• Ensure there is no standing water in the secondary drain pan
• Verify the secondary drain outlet remains free of blockage

Maintain Consistent Thermostat Temperatures

One of the most common misconceptions during summer is that drastically lowering the thermostat temperature will cool the home faster.

Your HVAC system is designed to gradually remove heat and humidity from both:

• The air inside the home
• The materials within the home itself

Large temperature setbacks during the day can require extended recovery times and may increase indoor humidity levels.

For best performance and comfort:

• Maintain a steady thermostat setting whenever possible
• Avoid extreme temperature swings throughout the day
• Allow the system time to gradually cool the home during peak afternoon heat

The thermostat fan setting should remain in the AUTO position rather than ON to help prevent excess humidity from circulating throughout the home.

Use Ceiling Fans Properly

Ceiling fans can improve comfort by helping circulate conditioned air throughout the home.

During summer:

• Ceiling fans should rotate in a counterclockwise direction
• This creates downward airflow that helps rooms feel cooler and more comfortable

While ceiling fans do not lower room temperature, they can improve perceived comfort and reduce stagnant airflow.

Run Bathroom Exhaust Fans During Showers

Bathroom exhaust fans help remove excess humidity generated from showers and baths.

High indoor humidity can contribute to:

• Condensation
• Longer HVAC run times
• Moisture buildup on vents and surfaces

We recommend running bathroom exhaust fans during showers or while cooking and briefly afterward to assist with moisture removal.

HVAC Service Program Recommendation

Manuel Builders highly recommends homeowners maintain a routine HVAC service program with their original HVAC installer.

Regular maintenance and seasonal servicing can help:

• Improve system longevity
• Maintain efficiency
• Identify minor concerns before they become major repairs
• Support optimal system performance during peak summer conditions

This recommendation is especially important while your home remains within Manuel Builders’ 2-year HVAC parts and labor warranty period.

If you have any questions regarding your HVAC system, please reach out to our Manuel Builders Warranty Department.