When summer temperatures rise, your air conditioner works harder to keep your indoor environment comfortable. But it’s not just the heat you feel. Humidity can make your space feel warmer, heavier, and less comfortable, even when the thermostat says otherwise.
High humidity also means your HVAC system has to work harder to remove moisture from the air while continuously circulating indoor air. Keeping your system in top shape starts with a few simple maintenance habits, including replacing your air filters regularly.
Here are five ways to help your home or workplace stay cooler, more comfortable, and ready for the hottest months of the year.
1. Keep Indoor Humidity Between 30% and 50%
One of the best ways to improve indoor comfort during the summer is by maintaining the proper humidity level.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor relative humidity below 60%, with an ideal range of 30% to 50%. This range helps create a more comfortable indoor environment and can discourage excess moisture that contributes to musty odors and mold growth.
A simple digital hygrometer can measure your indoor humidity in seconds and costs only a few dollars.
Indoor Humidity Guide
- Below 30%: Air may feel dry.
- 30% to 50%: Ideal indoor humidity.
- 50% to 60%: Keep an eye on moisture levels.
- Above 60%: Your home may feel damp or sticky and your HVAC system may have to work harder.
2. Replace Your Air Filters Before They Become Dirty
During the summer, your air conditioner often runs for hours every day. That means your air filters collect airborne particles much faster than they do during milder seasons.
Fresh air filters help maintain proper airflow throughout your HVAC system, allowing it to operate more efficiently during periods of heavy use.
High-efficiency air filters also help capture airborne particles such as:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Smoke particles
- Airborne mold spores
- Lint and other household debris
If your air filters look dirty or it’s been more than 30 to 90 days since your last replacement, summer is the perfect time to install fresh ones.
3. Choose the Right MERV Rating
Not every indoor environment has the same air filtration needs.
Choosing the appropriate MERV rating helps balance filtration performance with proper airflow for your HVAC system.
MERV 8
Great for everyday filtration of dust, lint, pollen, and larger airborne particles.
MERV 10 to 12
Provides enhanced filtration for smaller airborne particles while maintaining excellent airflow in many residential HVAC systems.
MERV 13
An excellent choice for homeowners looking for advanced filtration. MERV 13 air filters capture fine airborne particles, including smoke particles, pet dander, pollen, and many airborne mold spores.
MERV 14 to 16
Offers Nordic Pure’s highest residential filtration efficiency for capturing very fine airborne particles.
Always follow your HVAC system manufacturer’s recommendations when selecting a MERV rating.
4. Reduce Excess Moisture Indoors
Your daily routine can add surprising amounts of moisture to your indoor environment.
Simple ways to reduce indoor humidity include:
- Run bathroom exhaust fans during and after showers.
- Use your kitchen exhaust fan while cooking.
- Keep windows closed during hot, humid weather.
- Repair plumbing leaks promptly.
- Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements.
Reducing excess moisture helps your air conditioner maintain a comfortable indoor environment more efficiently.
5. Schedule Seasonal HVAC Maintenance
Routine maintenance helps your HVAC system perform at its best when temperatures climb.
An annual inspection can help identify dirty coils, clogged condensate drains, worn components, or other issues that may reduce cooling performance or humidity control.
Combined with fresh air filters, seasonal maintenance helps your system operate more efficiently throughout the summer.
Stay Comfortable All Summer Long
Summer heat and humidity put your HVAC system to the test. A few simple maintenance steps can make a noticeable difference in your comfort, indoor air quality, and system performance.
Fresh Nordic Pure air filters help maintain airflow while capturing airborne particles that circulate through your HVAC system. Whether you’re preparing your home, office, or workspace for another hot summer, replacing your air filters is one of the easiest ways to help your system perform its best.
Browse Nordic Pure’s complete selection of American-made air filters and find the right MERV rating for your HVAC system today.
