Summer in Springfield, Missouri, can be a real scorcher. With average highs around 88°F and humidity levels hitting 70%, it's no wonder many of us struggle to keep our homes cool. If your air conditioner is running non-stop during those extreme heat waves and still can’t maintain the set temperature, you're not alone. Older systems, especially, may seem to be doing all they can without much success. But don’t worry—there's often nothing fundamentally wrong with your unit. As soon as the temperatures drop back to normal, these systems usually perform just fine. So, what gives?

Here are some reasons why your AC might be struggling during extreme weather:

Springfield's Hot and Muggy Summers: Our climate is characterized by high temperatures and humidity. This combination can be tough for any air conditioning system, especially older models.
Older HVAC Systems and Manual J Load Calculations: In the past, many HVAC systems were not sized using a Manual J load calculation. Instead, they were installed based on the square footage of the home without considering factors like the direction the house faces, window placement, and insulation levels. This can lead to systems that are either too large or too small for the home’s actual cooling needs.
Uninsulated Ductwork in Older Homes: Many older homes in Springfield still have uninsulated ductwork in the crawl space, which can lead to significant energy loss and reduced cooling efficiency.

One key thing to remember is that air conditioning systems should not be oversized. An oversized system will turn off and on too quickly, failing to remove humidity effectively and making your home feel less comfortable.

The Solution: Two-Stage or Variable Drive Air Conditioners

So, how can you fix your AC issues during extreme weather without rebuilding your home? This is where two-stage or variable drive air conditioners come into play.

Two-Stage Air Conditioners:

Two-stage air conditioners operate at two levels of intensity: high and low. On milder days, the system runs on the lower setting, which is more energy-efficient and better at dehumidifying the air. When the temperature spikes, it switches to the higher setting to provide extra cooling power. This approach offers several benefits:

Enhanced Comfort: By running at a lower speed for longer periods, two-stage units maintain a more consistent indoor temperature and effectively remove humidity.
Energy Efficiency: Operating primarily at the lower setting saves energy and reduces wear and tear on the system, leading to longer equipment life.
Quiet Operation: Lower speed operation is quieter, making your home more peaceful.

Variable Drive Air Conditioners:

Variable drive (or variable speed) air conditioners take efficiency and comfort a step further by adjusting the cooling capacity in small increments. They can operate at any level between 30% and 100% capacity, matching the cooling output precisely to the needs of your home. The advantages include:

Precise Temperature Control: Variable speed units provide the most accurate temperature control, maintaining your desired comfort level regardless of outdoor conditions.
Superior Humidity Control: By running almost continuously at varying speeds, these systems remove more moisture from the air, which is crucial in humid climates like Springfield.
Maximum Energy Savings: Because they operate at lower speeds for longer periods, variable speed air conditioners use less electricity and can significantly lower your energy bills.
Improved Air Quality: Continuous operation at lower speeds improves air filtration, reducing dust, allergens, and other indoor air pollutants.

Why Manual J Load Calculations Matter

At SS&B Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of properly sizing your HVAC system. That’s why we perform Manual J load calculations for all our replacement bids. This precise calculation ensures that the system we install will keep your home at your desired temperature, no matter how extreme the weather gets.