July 19, 2019

It’s been over 100 degrees for weeks when that daunting envelope arrives. You know, the one containing that dreaded letter informing you it’s time to pay your utility bill. You become abundantly aware that your air conditioning system is cranked into high gear, and has remained in that state 24/7 since the hot weather hit. You anxiously expose the contents of the envelope to read what you already knew was coming–a utility bill with an extra zero on the end of it.

You knew your air conditioning costs would be high… but the number on your bill seems too high, disproportionately high! If this is the case, then your HVAC system might not be the BEST fit for you. Follow these HVAC maintenance tips to lower your utility bills and increase your HVAC’s efficiency. You’ll feel calm, cool, and collected in no time.

How to Get Your AC Working Smarter, Not Harder

1. Size Matters When It Comes to HVAC Systems

Bigger is not synonymous with better. Running an oversized air conditioning system can cause mold and mildew, potentially breakdown the system, or result in increased utility costs. When a large unit is installed in a small space, it runs shorter cycles, trapping water within the indoor coil, and creating a humid living environment. Humid conditions then cause mold or mildew growth. Shortened cycles also contribute to high energy use, as the unit is constantly shifting on and off. This causes additional wear and tear, shortening the lifespan of your system.

Just as running an AC unit that is too large poses problems, so does installing an AC unit that is too small. An undersized AC system requires a large amount of energy because it needs to run constantly to cool your home.

The efficiency of an HVAC system relies on a perfect fit, and each home has different requirements. The proper air conditioning unit depends on the size of your home, the number of windows in your residence, your amount of shaded square footage, insulation, air leaks, and the number of heat-generating home appliances you use. To find the BEST fit, talk to one of our certified professionals.

2. Hands Off the Thermostat

During the summer, set your thermostat to 78 degrees, as it will optimize the efficiency of your HVAC system. Your home will cool at the same rate whether you set your thermostat to 65 degrees or 78 degrees, so stop fiddling with it! Every time you lower, or change, the temperature on your thermostat, its cycle elongates to accommodate your new request, inevitably using more energy.

Programming your thermostat will lower utility costs. Using a programmable thermostat is extremely beneficial, as you will be able to pre-set a warmer temperature for when you are out-and-about and a cooler temperature for when you plan to be home, allowing your air conditioner to remain energy efficient and your climate comfortably cool.

3. Maintain a Happy, Humid Free Environment

As we all know from checking weather applications, the actual temperature and the “felt temperature” are rarely the same. Humidity is the main contributor to a day’s “felt temperature”. Using a dehumidifier will allow you to increase the temperature set on your AC, as it naturally lowers the temperature in your home by reducing humidity, giving your AC less work to do. Your utility bill will drop along with your climate.

4. Get Your Ducts in a Line

Poor air duct care may also contribute to high utility costs. Over 20% of the air moving through your air ducts is potentially lost due to leaks and holes in your system. Sealing your air ducts not only protects the air quality of your home but also lowers utility bills.

5. Maintain Filthy-Free Air Filters

Sustaining clean air filters is a must. If you fail to change your air filtration system, dirt and dust build-up, reducing airflow, slowing your system down, lowering the air quality within your home, and shortening the lifespan of your unit. It is recommended that you change your air filters every 30 days.

6. Don’t Be Ashamed of Your Air Vents

We know air ventilation isn’t as nice to look at as the paintings or plants you place in front of your vents; however, covering or hiding your home’s air vents will cause your air conditioner to work harder. In addition, closing air vents in sparsely used rooms actually work against the ventilation system, increasing pressure within the system that may cause breakdowns, or create air leaks in your ductwork. Remember maximum airflow equals maximum efficiency.

7. Keep Up With Yearly Check-Ups

Have your HVAC unit fine-tuned twice a year to ensure it is working properly for you and your family? We only want the BEST for you, so rely on trained technicians to care for your climate.

Cut utility costs by scheduling an appointment with our certified maintenance team.

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