Cooling Tips

Here are some helpful hints and tips to keep you cool and get the most out of your system!

Keep outdoor unit clean - Thoroughly wash off with a hose any grass clippings, fallen leaves, and other debris on the outside of the condenser unit.

Ensure proper space around outside unit - Clear or cut back shrubs and bushes around the condenser outside since the sides of the unit require at least 12-18 inches of clearance for proper performance.

Replace your furnace or air handler filters on a regular basis - One of the biggest causes of system breakdowns and costly repair bills is the lack of regular filter changes and maintenance. Dirty filters restrict air flow, reducing efficiency and worse case, can cause even bigger problems. Disposable fiberglass filters should replaced. Electrostatic or electronic filters need to be cleaned regularly. This simple task will help a great deal!

Ensure proper flow through the system - Remove any obstructions in front of your air-return or supply grills such as furniture, boxes, etc.

Get routine maintenance -  Much like your vehicle, your air conditioning and/or heating system needs to be serviced regularly (twice each year is the recommended minimum). This helps with things like:

• Spotting minor problems before they become major system failures
• Keeping the overall system clean
• Lubrication of all moving parts
• Proper operation of each component
• Overall efficiency of the system (very important in system performance and energy use)

Upgrade to an efficient system - If your air conditioner is ten years old or more, consider upgrading to a new high-efficiency system. Today, systems can save you 30-50% in energy costs, making the investment worthwhile.

Use a programmable thermostat - These automatically raise and lower your temperature for set periods to save energy. Also, if you want to achieve a temperature change rather quickly, do not set the thermostat temperature lower than the desired temperature. The system cools at the same rate regardless of the temperature setting.