Summer is officially here, and while you are trying to cool down, you are probably seeing your energy bills creeping up with the temperatures. But an easy way to avoid continually rising costs could be as easy as carrying out a few simple maintenance tasks.
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You can wash a dirty filter in warm, soapy water and make sure it’s completely dry before you reinstall it. (Some filters are washable but check the user manual for care recommendations.) If a filter is damaged or deteriorated, replace it. (Take an old one with you to the store to ensure you buy the right model and size.) If you can’t find the specific replacement filter you need, buy filter material and cut it to fit. Clean the filter once a month during cooling season.
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Vacuum the coils
Vacuum any debris from the indoor and outdoor coils with an upholstery brush attachment before you install a room air conditioner. Take care not to damage or deform the soft fins. Specially designed fin combs work much better than screwdrivers at straightening out bent fins. Remove the unit’s cover and use a soft brush or a can of compressed air to remove dirt from the inside of the coils and the bottom of the air conditioner.
Install and seal the unit(s)
Air conditioners installed in a shady spot could run up to 10 percent more efficiently, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Seal the perimeter of the installed unit with new weather stripping, if needed. Also, secure the unit so that a burglar can’t push it in and, more importantly, so that it can’t fall out of the window and injure someone.
Avoid short-cycling
Wait 10 minutes after shutting off the unit to restart it. This allows the pressure in the refrigeration system to equalize and will prolong the life of your air conditioner.
Get a FREE second opinion. We provide hassle-free second opinions on a video call. Our trained technicians will help you make an informed decision that’s right for your home’s heating, cooling, or plumbing needs.
Did you know that up to 40% of your cooling energy can be lost through leaks, especially when the ductwork goes through uncooled spaces like attics? Avoid this massive loss by ensuring that your entire system is properly insulated.
We have several blogs that go into detail about the benefits and how-to about programmable thermostats, but just a reminder, proper use of a programmable thermostat can cut your energy bill down by almost a quarter. Also, although ceiling fans are not revolutionary technology, consider installing some, so you can set your thermostat at a higher temperature.
If you do not have the time or assets to tend to your system, call Commercial Service and let our licensed professionals take care of your HVAC needs like key maintenance tasks, including changing all filters, draining the pan and drainage system, and vacuuming the blower compartments. Our technicians will also check that the system is properly charged with refrigerant, that there are no leaks, and that all mechanical components are working properly. If your HVAC cannot be repaired, it might need to be replaced altogether.
If you have questions about maintaining your AC unit, or would prefer for a Commercial Service technician to handle any maintenance tasks, schedule an appointment with our easy Online Scheduling or by calling 812-339-9114.
