All About Cooling Your Home

Published on Jun 18, 2025

Did you catch yourself eagerly counting down the days until summer arrives? And suddenly, you’re rushing to find ways to beat the heat! That’s right—the dog days of summer are finally upon us.

Troubleshooting Your Home's Cooling System

If your house suddenly feels warmer and you can't keep it cool, try these simple checks:

• Inspect Your Filter: A dusty or old filter can obstruct airflow. It may be time to replace it, Sutherlands has many sizes of filters.
• Examine Your Thermostat: Ensure it is functioning properly. Set it to your desired temperature, but make sure there’s a significant difference for the AC cooling to activate. If you notice a temperature change in the room but the thermostat remains unchanged, it might need replacing.
• DIY Voltage Check: If you're handy, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage on the unit. We recommend watching DIY videos on YouTube for detailed instructions.
• Refrigerant Check: Use a manifold to check the refrigerant levels.

Keep in mind, the last two steps may be best left to professionals.

If your home lacks a central air conditioning system or an attic or loft, many homeowners use window air conditioning units. Remember, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For more information, take a look at our previous blog titled “How to Choose the Right A/C Unit for Your Home & Maintenance Tips.”

Here’s a brief guide:

• If your room is 100 to 300 square feet, choose a unit rated at 5,000 to 7,000 BTU’s
• When your room is between 400 and 450 square feet, choose a unit that is around 8,000 to 10,000 BTU’s
• For rooms larger than that, choose a unit that is 10,000 to 12,500 BTU’s.

 

Don't overlook the benefits of a ceiling fan. Firstly, it enhances air circulation and helps maintain a cooler body temperature. As a general guideline, set the fan to rotate **counterclockwise** during the summer; this motion pushes air downward. In contrast, during winter, switch it to **clockwise** to circulate warm air that collects near the ceiling throughout the room.

Empower Yourself as a DIYer with MRCOOL

If you want to feel completely empowered as a DIY enthusiast, we’d like to introduce you to the user-friendly heating and cooling solution from our partner, Mr. Cool.

As their slogan says: “No pros, No pressure. Just you.”

This system is perfect for those challenging spaces, like an upstairs bedroom that’s tough to cool, or if you're tired of working in a hot garage. It offers an excellent solution.

• MRCOOL® DIY® is the first and only true do-it-yourself heat pump system, providing both cooling and heating functions. It can easily replace window air conditioning units and comes equipped with a thermostat. Plus, its ductless design allows for straightforward installation. Units are available in various sizes, ranging from 9,000 BTU to 36,000 BTU, with the 12K, 18K, and 24K models being Energy Star Certified.

Advantages for the Aspiring HVAC DIYer

• Quick Connect: With simple quick connect lines, you can install your MRCOOL® DIY® without the need for specialized training or costly tools.
• The patented MRCOOL® DIY® Quick Connect® Line Set is pre-charged with R-410A refrigerant, ensuring a quick and easy installation with no vacuum required.
• The thermostat on a MRCOOL® DIY® unit allows you to set the temperature between 62°F and 86°F for heating. Enjoy the warmth you deserve with the MRCOOL® DIY® system throughout the winter.

Visit your local Sutherlands, where you'll find a variety of options to help keep you cool, including tower and personal oscillating fans. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system is vital, and Sutherlands' professionals can assist you in selecting the right product.

Wishing you a happy summer—stay cool!