July in Scottsdale, AZ isn’t just hot—it’s brutally hot. Triple-digit temperatures dominate the forecast, and with monsoon season creeping in, your air conditioner becomes both your best friend and your biggest utility expense. I'm Andy Pasterchick, proud owner of Varsity Zone of Scottsdale. My team and I specialize in keeping homes and businesses cool, efficient, and reliable year-round.
As an experienced HVAC company in Scottsdale, we know exactly what it takes to stay comfortable without letting your electric bill go through the roof. Here are 10 expert HVAC hacks to beat the July heat, boost your system’s efficiency, and save serious money.
1. Replace Air Filters Monthly
Why it matters: In a desert climate like ours, filters get clogged quickly with dust, pet dander, and pollen—especially after a dust storm. A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes your AC work harder, raising your energy consumption.
Pro Tip: Change your filter every 30 days during peak summer months. This is one of the simplest ways to improve system efficiency.
At Varsity Zone of Scottsdale, we recommend using MERV 8-11 filters for optimal performance and air quality.
2. Clean Your Outdoor Condenser Coils
Your outdoor unit is exposed to intense heat and constant dust. If the coils are dirty, your system loses efficiency fast.
DIY Step: Turn off the power to your system, then gently spray the condenser coils with a hose to remove debris.
Pro Step: Schedule professional coil cleaning with an HVAC company Scottsdale residents trust—like ours—to ensure deep internal cleaning without damaging the unit.
3. Reverse Ceiling Fan Direction
Ceiling fans are underrated power-savers. In the summer, they should rotate counterclockwise to create a wind-chill effect, allowing you to raise your thermostat setting by 2-4°F without noticing the difference.
Savings Tip: Raising your thermostat just 1°F can save up to 3% on cooling costs.
We often recommend this to clients at Varsity Zone of Scottsdale during summer tune-ups.
4. Seal Ductwork and Home Leaks
Up to 30% of cooled air is lost through leaky ducts in the average home. Combine that with window and door leaks, and you're cooling the outdoors.
What We Do: As an experienced HVAC company in Scottsdale, we test and seal ductwork, check attic insulation, and weatherstrip problem areas to keep your cooled air where it belongs.
5. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a game-changer. It learns your patterns and adjusts your cooling schedule automatically, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when you're not home.
Ideal Settings: Set your thermostat to 78°F while home, and 82°F or higher while away, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Local Pro Tip: We install and program smart thermostats as part of our energy-efficiency services at Varsity Zone of Scottsdale.
6. Keep Your Condenser Unit Shaded
When your outdoor AC unit sits in direct sunlight, it works harder to expel heat.
Quick Fix: Provide shade with plants, awnings, or screens—but always maintain 2-3 feet of clearance around the unit.
Trusted by Locals: Our technicians at Varsity Zone of Scottsdale, a top-rated HVAC company in Scottsdale, can recommend cooling-friendly landscaping and shading solutions.
7. Check Refrigerant Levels
Incorrect refrigerant levels make your AC inefficient and can damage the compressor. Low refrigerant also means higher energy bills and poor cooling.
What We Offer: At Varsity Zone of Scottsdale, we perform full refrigerant diagnostics, inspect for leaks, and recharge systems to manufacturer specs.
Did You Know? Refrigerant issues are one of the top causes of poor AC performance during Scottsdale summers.
8. Schedule Mid-Summer Tune-Ups
Just like your car, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to run efficiently. Summer is peak season—and also prime time for breakdowns.
What’s Included: Our July tune-up includes:
- Inspecting electrical components
- Testing capacitors and relays
- Flushing condensate lines
- Checking thermostat calibration
- Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
Trust your HVAC company in Scottsdale to catch small problems before they turn into big ones.
9. Improve Indoor Air Quality
High dust levels and monsoon humidity affect not just your comfort, but your system’s longevity.
Solution: Install UV lights and advanced filtration systems to keep air clean and your system stress-free.
We offer customized IAQ packages at Varsity Zone of Scottsdale to enhance both comfort and HVAC efficiency.
10. Monitor Energy Usage Trends
Smart thermostats and home energy monitors help you track usage and detect spikes that could indicate an issue.
Data = Savings: By analyzing your trends, we can recommend system changes that optimize efficiency.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, cooling accounts for up to 50% of summer electricity usage in hot climates like Scottsdale.
FAQ: Cooling Down Your Scottsdale Home
Q: How often should I replace my AC filter in summer?
A: Every 30 days—especially after dust storms.
Q: Can ceiling fans really make a difference?
A: Absolutely. They allow you to raise your thermostat without sacrificing comfort.
Q: What temperature should I set my thermostat in July?
A: 78°F while home; 82-85°F while away.
Q: Should I clean my outdoor AC unit myself?
A: You can hose off dust gently, but deep cleaning is best left to a licensed HVAC company in Scottsdale.
Q: When should I schedule an HVAC tune-up?
A: Ideally, before or in early July to ensure your system runs efficiently through peak heat.
About the Author
Hi! I’m Andy Pasterchick, owner of Varsity Zone of Scottsdale. I’m passionate about HVAC and proud to serve Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and beyond. My team and I are committed to honesty, transparency, and lasting value—guided by our EEAT values. You’ll recognize our work by excellent craftsmanship, thorough diagnoses, and clear communication.
If you’re looking for an HVAC company in Scottsdale that values your comfort, we’re here for you.
Don’t let scorching July temperatures take a toll on your wallet. Let Varsity Zone of Scottsdale help you stay cool, comfortable, and cost-efficient.
Ready for a mid-summer tune-up or thermostat upgrade? Contact your trusted HVAC company in Scottsdale today to schedule an appointment!