Mobile's Scorching Summer

This summer, Mobile, AL endured relentless heat waves with daily highs repeatedly climbing into the 90s—and heat indices surpassing 105 °F in many areas—thanks to a persistent heat dome and soaring humidity levels , the combination of oppressive midday temperatures and muggy nights pushed HVAC systems into overdrive.

Many air conditioning units, particularly those in rental properties or older homes, struggled to keep up. Continuous operation led to overheating components, inefficient cooling, inconsistent temperature control, and sometimes complete breakdowns. Tenants reported sweltering indoors despite units running non-stop—an indication of systems under severe strain.

Looking Ahead: Intensifying Heat

Climate projections paint a stark picture: around 1990, Mobile experienced roughly 7 days per year over 95.5 °F. By 2050, that number is expected to surge to nearly 48 such days annually

. Meanwhile, broader models suggest Alabama could face 30–60 days exceeding 95 °F within the next several decades

. These trends highlight an urgent need for proactive preparation.

Preparing HVAC Systems for Next Summer

To avoid future meltdowns, homeowners and rental property managers can take several key steps:

Schedule professional maintenance

A yearly tune-up should include refrigerant checks, coil cleaning, and airflow testing. This helps prevent unexpected failures during peak heat

Change air filters regularly

Clogged filters restrict airflow and overwork HVAC motors. Aim to replace them every 30–90 days

Seal, insulate, and block heat

Weatherstrip doors, seal ductwork, upgrade attic insulation, and add shading (like reflective window treatments or blackout curtains) to reduce cooling load

Use smart thermostats and zoned cooling

Programmable or smart thermostats maintain efficient temperature control, while zoning allows unused areas to remain warmer, saving energy and reducing strain

Complement AC with fans

Ceiling and portable fans enhance comfort, allowing the thermostat to be set a few degrees higher without sacrificing coolness

Improve attic ventilation, consider cool roofing materials, and add exterior shading via trees or awnings to minimize solar heat gain

Mobile’s summer heat is only intensifying, and HVAC systems are increasingly challenged. By investing in preventive maintenance, improving home resilience, and optimizing cooling practices, homeowners and landlords can better safeguard properties and tenants from next summer’s inevitable heat spikes.