Keep Cool with These Air Conditioning Tips

·         Don’t allow the interior of your home to become dangerously hot since the air conditioner cannot cool it down within a reasonable amount of time. Air conditioners are designed for about a 20° change in temperature, so 100° air would only be cooled to about 80°.

 

·         One of the most simple air conditioner tips is to change your air conditioner filter at least four times a year to ensure that your family is breathing cleaner air and your HVAC system is not being overworked, thus potentially saving energy and money.

 

·         Run your ceiling fans to stay cooler in the summertime. Check your fans to ensure they are going in the correct direction. In the summer, your fan should be set on “forward,” which means the blades are rotating counter-clockwise. There is a switch on the base where you can control this. By moving your fan setting to the forward position, you will receive a nice downward breeze keeping you cool.

 

·         It is fairly common for an air conditioner to ice up. The air conditioner drain line can also freeze, back up and cause a leak, which is often confused for a plumbing leak. When this happens, immediately turn off your compressor by switching your thermostat over to fan. As the ice starts to melt, make sure you have proper drainage and call a professional. From dirty coils to poorly designed ductwork, there are many things that can restrict airflow. A professional can check them all and get to the root of the problem.

 

·         Keep your outdoor air conditioning unit cooler by planting trees or shrubs that provide shade but still allow air to flow around unit. By properly shading the area, your system can perform up to 10% more efficiently. Also, be sure the landscaping isn’t too close to the unit, so a technician can service it easily when necessary.