Stay Cool in a Heatwave - Upgrade Your Commercial or Home AC

Posted on July 22nd, 2025

The hottest days seem to arrive faster each year. Streets shimmer, sidewalks bake, and every enclosed space without reliable cooling quickly turns unbearable. Air conditioners, often taken for granted in cooler seasons, become the frontline defense during these peaks. But not every system is ready to meet that demand.

Gradual decline is easy to miss—until the equipment breaks down at the worst moment possible. In both homes and businesses, that single failure can derail comfort, productivity, and even safety. That’s why it’s worth paying attention now, before the next heatwave tests your system beyond its limit.

Is Your AC Costing You More Than It Should?

It’s not always easy to spot the point where maintenance turns into a money sink. An aging air conditioner doesn’t usually fail in one dramatic moment—it fades. Quietly. Slowly. And expensively.

A noticeable rise in energy bills, especially in the summer, could mean the unit is working harder to keep up. In most cases, older systems rely on outdated components that draw more electricity for less output. This slow creep in energy use often goes unnoticed until it starts leaving a real mark on monthly expenses.

Another signal that’s easy to brush off is how often a technician has to be called. It might start with a capacitor, then a coil, then another strange noise. Each visit might seem small on its own, but together they tell a clear story: the system’s wearing out. If the parts are older or no longer stocked, wait times and service costs tend to stretch longer than anyone would prefer.

On top of that, cooling may no longer be consistent across rooms. That office in the back corner never seems to cool down, or the bedroom hits icebox levels while the kitchen stays muggy. These aren’t just quirks—they’re signs the system isn’t distributing air effectively anymore.

When Summer Heat Pushes Your AC Past Its Limits

Every HVAC unit has a limit. And the moment that separates manageable discomfort from a full-blown emergency usually happens when the mercury spikes.

One of the first warning signs is noise. Not only does a running machine emit a low hum, but it also emits screeches, bangs, and grinding or clicking sounds that were absent the previous year. These odd noises often point to internal wear. Electrical smells or a musty scent could signal mildew inside or an overheating component, both of which carry risks beyond just bad air.

Then there’s the issue of nonstop cycling. If the AC seems like it never stops running but still can’t cool the space, it’s likely operating far beyond its comfort zone. Dirty coils or low refrigerant might be a part of it, but more often, the system is simply undersized or overstressed. When that happens, even a fully functioning unit can’t catch up—and that stress only shortens its remaining life.

And sometimes, the system provides you a more visible clue. Cracked casings, signs of rust, moisture pooling around the unit—these visual red flags are often ignored because the system still turns on. But damage like this means the machine is nearing retirement. A scheduled inspection can confirm what the eye suspects and help avoid being caught off guard.

Cooling Is More Than Just a Number on a Thermostat

Temperature might be the most obvious part of a comfortable room, but it’s not the only factor. Poor airflow, strange humidity levels, and uneven coverage can all make a space feel off—even when the thermometer says otherwise.

In some homes or commercial settings, the temperature from room to room shifts dramatically. While overhead fans can help circulate air, they’re not solving the root problem if the AC can’t distribute cool air evenly. Modern zoning systems are built to prevent this by giving each room independent control, avoiding the all-or-nothing approach of older systems.

Unit size plays a big role, too. A model that’s too powerful for a space will blast air quickly and shut off before it has time to remove moisture. This leads to a cold but clammy feeling that no one really wants. On the other hand, a unit that’s too small keeps working overtime, struggling to hit the target and quietly burning itself out in the process. A proper size calculation, which takes into account not only the square footage but also the insulation, usage, and layout, can significantly impact performance.

There’s also the issue of ductwork. It’s easy to blame the unit when a room doesn’t cool, but occasionally, the problem lies in the vents. Leaks, blockages, or poor design keep even the best system from performing well. A quick check of the duct condition might reveal why that particular room always feels warmer than the others.

How to Keep Cool When Temperatures Surge

You can’t control the weather, but you can prepare for it. A few smart practices and updates to your HVAC setup can prevent those heat-induced panic moments and keep your space comfortable even during long hot spells.

A lot starts with the thermostat. Setting it to 78°F while you’re home strikes a good balance between comfort and efficiency. When no one’s around, bumping it a few degrees higher cuts back on power use without affecting your space long-term. And if you’re tired of constantly adjusting it yourself, switching to a smart or programmable thermostat can take that off your plate. These systems learn your habits and adjust accordingly, making them a low-effort way to avoid overuse.

Regular maintenance also plays a major role. Just like a car needs an oil change, HVAC systems benefit from regular checkups. Dirty filters, blocked coils, or low refrigerant levels make the system work harder—and that wear builds up fast during extreme temperatures. Getting an inspection before the season kicks into high gear can catch small problems before they become emergencies.

Other tricks include strategic fan use and controlling sunlight. Ceiling fans push cool air down where it’s needed most. Closing blinds or curtains in sunny rooms can stop heat from pouring in. These might seem like minor adjustments, but during a heatwave, every degree counts.

Why Replacing Now Makes More Sense Than Waiting

It’s easy to postpone a big upgrade. But when the costs, risks, and discomfort keep stacking up, replacement starts to look more like the practical choice—and less like a luxury.

One of the biggest incentives is how much modern systems save on power. High-efficiency models use newer motors and components that deliver the same results with less energy. Those monthly utility bills, which seem to climb every summer, can drop significantly with the right system in place. Over time, those savings make up a good chunk of the initial investment.

The newer systems also operate more quietly and consistently. Instead of the loud start-stop cycles of older units, variable-speed fans maintain stable cooling without all the noise. Some even learn your habits, adjusting automatically so you stay comfortable without constant input.

And there’s more than comfort and cost savings on the table. Many states and energy providers offer rebates, credits, or tax deductions for switching to efficient models. These programs can cover part of the purchase or installation cost, easing the financial impact right away.

Smart timing helps, too. Replacing your system during milder months means better availability and fewer delays. That way, when the next heatwave arrives, you’re already prepared—and won’t be competing for technician time in an emergency.

Plan Ahead So You’re Not Left in the Heat

Some signs of an aging AC are subtle at first: a slight uptick in your electric bill, a room that always seems warmer than the rest, or a service call that feels a little too familiar. Left unchecked, these little inconveniences often turn into larger problems, particularly when the weather becomes unforgiving. By recognizing them early, it becomes much easier to act before discomfort turns into downtime.

Jetway understands exactly what’s at stake when a home or commercial space loses its ability to cool properly. That’s why the focus isn’t just on installation—it’s on matching each client with a dependable solution that fits the space, the budget, and the urgency. Whether it’s a home system that needs updating or a commercial upgrade that’s overdue, Jetway delivers systems designed to last and perform under pressure.

Don’t wait for a system breakdown—schedule your residential or commercial HVAC replacement with Jetway before the next heatwave hits.

If you'd like to discuss options or book a service, call (718) 708-9544 or send a note to [email protected]. Now is the right time to prepare—not just for the heat, but for the comfort and reliability that should come with every summer day.