When summer heat settles over Hancock County, even the best air conditioners reach their limit. Most systems can cool indoor air only about 15–20°F below the outdoor temperature. That means if it’s 94°F outside, holding 74–79°F inside is perfectly normal. Setting the thermostat lower won’t cool faster—it just forces longer run times and adds stress to the compressor.
Homes along Ridge Avenue, Jefferson Street, and up toward Laurel Hollow each face unique cooling challenges. The steep hills and valley humidity near the Ohio River trap heat and moisture that make it harder for systems to remove warmth from the air. Long AC cycles during July afternoons are typical—and usually show that the system is working properly.
New Cumberland’s hilly layout and heavy river humidity create a tough cooling environment. A properly functioning air conditioner should maintain a 15–20°F drop between intake and supply air. On a 90°F day, 70–75°F indoors is ideal. Homes near the high school or along Veterans Boulevard often see increased attic heat due to limited airflow. Adding attic insulation or ridge vents helps stabilize temperatures across upper floors.
Many older homes near Ridge Avenue or Chester Street were built before modern HVAC standards. Narrow ductwork, poor sealing, and aging insulation let cool air escape too quickly. Riverfront homes face high humidity and frequent coil clogging from dust or cottonwood fluff. Routine professional cleaning and refrigerant checks each spring restore airflow and maintain system efficiency through the summer.
Small changes go a long way in New Cumberland’s climate. Close blinds on west-facing windows during late afternoon, run ceiling fans to help circulation, and replace filters monthly. Homes on Laurel Hollow Road or around Park Drive benefit from better attic insulation and sealed returns. If your home stays roughly 15–20°F cooler than outdoors, your AC is performing as designed—even when it runs most of the day.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes available at (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent