Air Conditioning Tips!
There are plenty of things you should be doing that can save you money in the long run including regular maintenance. Here are some suggestions for you:
Energy Saving Tips
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Don't locate your air conditioner in direct sunlight-particularly on the south side of your home where it will be forced to work much harder to do its job.
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Reduce your cooling costs by increasing the thermostat setting by a degree or two. Try setting you thermostat around 26OC. Use a programmable thermostat so you can adjust the temperature setting when you're not at home.
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When you want to achieve rapid temperature change for comfort, don't set the thermostat higher or lower than the desired temperature. That doesn't cool or heat a home any faster-it just makes the system work longer and may ice up the compressor.
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The use of window air conditioners can be more cost effective than a central cooling system as you only cool down the areas required.
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Close off the kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans as soon as they've done their job. In just one hour, these exhaust fans can blow away a houseful of costly, cooled air.
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Keep doors and windows shut whenever cooling. If fresh outdoor air is required, turn off the air conditioning first or use an air exchanger system.
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Clean or replace the filter at least once a month. Use your electric bill be your regular reminder to clean or change the filter.
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Turn the power supply to the cooling system off during the winter. Remember to wait 24 hours after breaker is turned back on prior to next season's start-up.
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Good insulation in your home can more than pay for itself in just a few years, in money saved on air-conditioning and heating operation.
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Dirty filters cause unnecessary strain and can lead to equipment breakdowns. Air-conditioning servicemen say about half of their trouble calls are traced to dirty filters. We suggest changing or cleaning your filters at least once a month, preferably every two weeks for best results.
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If your unit is 10 years old or more consider a new, properly sized, high efficiency system.
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Check your duct system for air leaks and for adequate insulation.
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Attic temperatures can soar in the summer so good attic ventilation will lower the temperature and reduce cooling requirements inside your home.
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Seal leaks around doors, windows, electrical receptacles & switches, roof and wall protrusions.
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You can save money by shading the glass with awnings, solar screens or shutters. Trees and shrubs that shade your home also help to reduce the air-conditioning workload. Venetian blinds or drapes are helpful as well.
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Close up your firebox area and fireplace damper during the summer (when not in use) to help prevent cool air from going up the chimney.
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If you have questions about your present system or how to improve it, seek further professional advice from an expert such as a qualified and licensed air conditioning contractor.
Maintenance Tips
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Regardless of the type or age of your equipment, it is a good idea to make sure that it is operating properly before and during use.
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Whether you have a window unit, central air unit, or a heat pump, you can do many of the maintenance tasks. These include cleaning coils, replacing filters, lubricating motors, and checking belts.
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Indoor unit coils should be cleaned periodically with a vacuum cleaner or brush. The outdoor coils should be kept free of grass, leaves, shrubbery and other obstructions.
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If your air conditioning equipment needs servicing, hire a professional. They can perform the more difficult tasks such as pressure testing, recharging with refrigerant, checking thermostats and sensors, and repairing or replacing electrical and mechanical components.
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Check your owner's manuals for information about proper start-up and operation of their equipment. Also, make sure that registers and vents are not restricted or blocked by furniture, carpets, rugs or curtains.
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