Maximise HVAC Efficiency Before the Summer Heatwave Hits

air conditioning installation

Prepare Your Air Conditioning System – Reduce Costs & Keep Things Comfortable

Summer is nearly here!! And, businesses across Surrey and South London should be preparing for warmer days… and record-breaking heatwaves. If your commercial air conditioning system isn’t ready, you could be facing inefficient cooling, unexpected breakdowns, and soaring energy bills.

But… good news… a few simple steps can significantly improve your HVAC system’s efficiency – ensuring comfort, reliability, and efficiency throughout the hottest months of the year.

Step 1. Book a Pre-Summer HVAC Service!

Before the first hot spell hits, make sure your system is ready to perform under pressure with a professional air conditioning service.

  • Clean filters and condenser coils
  • Check refrigerant levels and airflow
  • Test electrical connections
  • Spot early signs of wear or faults

Booking in spring avoids long lead times and emergency callout fees when HVAC engineers are at their busiest.

Step 2. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Clogged filters reduce airflow, force your system to work harder, and lower cooling performance – especially under heavy summer loads.

  • Improved Energy Efficiency.
  • Better Air Circulation.
  • Healthier Indoor Air Quality.

Aim to check and replace filters every 1–3 months depending on system usage and environment.

Step 3. Optimise Thermostat Settings & Controls

Many businesses waste energy by cooling unoccupied spaces or overcompensating for temperature extremes.

  • Set Reasonable Summer Temperatures (e.g. 22–24°C).
  • Use Smart Thermostats or BMS to Create Cooling Zones.
  • Program Systems to Align with Actual Operating Hours.

Even a 1°C adjustment can cut cooling energy use by up to 8%.

Step 4. Inspect Outdoor Units for Obstruction or Damage

Over winter, debris, leaves, and dirt often build up around outdoor condenser units, restricting airflow and reducing heat exchange efficiency.

  • Clear Blocked Vents.
  • Check for Damaged Fins or Casing.
  • Remove Overgrown Vegetation or Equipment Stored Nearby.

Step 5. Seal Gaps and Minimise Heat Gain

Efficient cooling starts with keeping heat out. If your building is absorbing heat faster than your HVAC can remove it, you’ll spend more for less comfort.

  • Seal Gaps in Windows, Doors & Ducting.
  • Install Reflective Window Films or Blinds.
  • Insulate Sun-Facing Rooms & Ceilings.

Combine building efficiency upgrades with HVAC tuning for the biggest impact.

Step 6. Use Zoning & Occupancy Control

If your HVAC system supports zoning, take full advantage of it by cooling only the areas in use.

  • Reduce cooling in unoccupied meeting rooms
  • Adjust based on time-of-day patterns
  • Provide custom comfort zones for departments or functions

This improves comfort and reduces total energy use.

Step 7. Monitor & Benchmark Energy Usage

Install or review smart meters or energy tracking tools to measure how your HVAC system performs during peak summer months.

  • Daily & Weekly Energy Usage
  • Peak Demand Times
  • Performance Before & After Maintenance or Upgrades

Data helps you identify where to improve and justifies future upgrades.

 

Efficiency Matters More Than Ever

With rising energy costs, increased cooling demand, and more frequent heatwaves in the South East, optimising your HVAC system isn’t just smart – it’s now essential.

 

Contact RC Cooling for Air Conditioning Services in Surrey & South London

 

Book Your Pre-Summer HVAC Service Today

Don’t wait until the heatwave hits. Prepare your business now to stay cool, stay efficient, and stay in control.

Call us on 07747 601346 or email us at sales@rc-commercial.co.uk.