General HVAC
- Run your air conditioner or heating unit for a few minutes in the weeks leading up to when you’ll really need it. If you wait until the first hot or cold day to discover the system isn’t working, you’ll find yourself on a waiting list, freezing OR sweltering for days before an HVAC specialist can come to fix it.
- “Tune-up” your heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) system with an annual maintenance contract. Even a new ENERGY STAR qualified HVAC system, like a new car, will decline in performance without regular maintenance. A maintenance contract automatically ensures that your HVAC contractor will provide “pre-season” tune-ups before each cooling and heating season. You will save energy and money, and your system may last years longer with simply investing the minimal costs of a yearly maintenance plan.
- Install an ENERGY STAR qualified programmable thermostat to automate your HVAC system. This simple device, which is easily installed in place of your existing thermostat, optimizes HVAC operation “24/7” based on your schedule and habits.
- Plug leaks around doors and windows with weather stripping and caulking. Caulking and weather stripping help you eliminate drafts and keep the comfortable air temperature consistent on the inside of your home.
- If the condenser fan makes a clicking or grating noise it may indicate that the blades may be striking an obstruction. If a blade becomes bent, do NOT try to straighten the blade. A straightened blade may become unbalanced and can loosen the fan motor or hit the condenser coil. Call a professional to make this repair.
- Keep vegetation at least 2 feet away from outdoor units on each side and above. Aim grass clippings away from the unit when mowing the lawn. During the fall, keep the fan grill free of leaves.
- If possible, shade the outdoor compressor unit. Air in shaded space is typically 5 to 6 degrees cooler than the surrounding air. Proper shading can help your system perform up to 10 percent more efficiently throughout the summer months..
- Raise the temperature setting on your thermostat if possible. Each degree of temperature can represent up to 9 percent savings in cooling costs.