There’s nothing quite like the Chicago heat, which is why it’s so important to find ways to stay cool during the summer months. As a heating and air conditioning company that’s based in Chicago, we’re all too familiar with the somewhat unpredictable weather that the Windy City (perhaps, during the summer, it should be called the “Sunny City”) has to offer.

Thankfully, there are plenty of practical cooling tips that you can follow this summer to stay comfortable and sane. There are also a number of home cooling solutions — like central air conditioning and window units — that we’d be happy to install for you if you’re interested.

Whether you’re a newcomer or have been living in Chicago your whole life, the Wantuck team has got you covered!

The Best Home Cooling Solutions

Before we get into specific strategies for home cooling, let’s take a look at some common cooling systems that are available to homeowners and renters in Chicago. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your current home cooling system, you’re in the right place!

1. Central Air Conditioning: Needless to say, you can’t go wrong with central air conditioning. As you may or may not know, it provides consistent, whole-house cooling through a network of ducts and vents installed throughout your home. Of course, installing a central air conditioning system can be quite an investment. Most people agree that it’s worth it, though — especially during the summer months. Once again, the Chicago heat is no joke, and you shouldn’t have to settle for being uncomfortable!

2. Window Units: Window units are an especially popular choice for apartments and smaller homes. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, window air conditioners are affordable, easy to install, and provide cooling for specific rooms. The only downside is that they can be less efficient than central air conditioning systems. They may also obstruct natural light in some cases. Many people feel like installing window units is worth it regardless of that fact, though!

3. Portable Air Conditioners: Portable air conditioners are ideal for renters — or anyone who’s looking for a flexible home cooling solution for that matter. The great thing about portable AC units is that they can be moved from room to room as needed. They’re super easy to set up and require no permanent installation. That said, they may be less powerful than window units or central air conditioning systems. For this reason, a lot of

people agree that it’s worth installing central AC and/or window units along with using portable air conditioners.

Strategies For Beating the Heat and Saving Money

Home cooling systems are great, but what else can you do to keep your home cool and comfortable this summer? There’s also nothing worse than realizing just how expensive it is to run a window unit or portable air conditioner. By using the strategies listed below, you’ll be able to stay cool and avoid expensive energy bills. Yes, really!

Proper Insulation

This is going to be the key to keeping cool air in and hot air out (where it belongs!). By making sure that your home is properly insulated (don’t forget to insulate the attic, as well), you can prevent energy waste and reduce the workload on your cooling system.

Window Treatments

Wantuck highly recommends investing in energy-efficient window treatments (like shades or blackout curtains). This will help to block out the sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure to open them back up at night to let to cool air in!

Seal Leaks

If you’ve noticed that your house is a little drafty, it might be because you have leaks around your windows, doors, and vents. Don’t worry — this is a common issue, and it’s quite easy to fix. You can use caulk or weatherstrips to seal these leaks and prevent the hot summer air (or the cold winter air, for that matter) from getting in.

Smart Thermostats

The weather in Chicago can be a little bit unpredictable, which is why a lot of people choose to upgrade to a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat will take your cooling preferences into consideration and adjust the temperature in your home accordingly.

Local Regulations Specific to Chicago

In 2022, Chicago actually adopted an ordinance that requires residential buildings to install AC equipment in common areas — so you’re likely to see AC units in the communal areas of your building if you happen to live in an apartment. Just a fun fact for you.

 

If you’re considering making upgrades to your current cooling system (or want to install an entirely new cooling system), you should make sure to check the local building codes and regulations in Chicago — just to make sure you’re following the rules.

Since Chicago experiences intense heat waves every year, it’s no surprise that HVAC repair services are in high demand. By choosing Wantuck Comfort Solutions to do your HVAC maintenance and repairs, you’ll be able to benefit in a number of ways.

For example, we’re very familiar with the weather patterns in Chicago — that’s why choosing a local service is a great choice! Not only that, but we’re aware of the most common issues with HVAC units in Chicago, and will be able to provide you with quick, efficient service for this reason.

Beat the Chicago Heat With Wantuck Comfort Solutions

This summer (and every summer), finding the right cooling system for your home is going to be especially important. Temperatures have been above average as of late, after all, and it’s only getting hotter! Whether you decide to get a central air conditioning system installed or go the portable air conditioner route, Wantuck has got your back.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the summer heat, don’t hesitate to reach out to Wantuck Comfort Solutions. Our technicians are licensed, insured, background checked, and drug screened. Whether your HVAC system needs repairs, or you want to get a new air conditioning unit installed, you can rest assured that we’ll get the job done!

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