How to Get the Most out of Your AC this Summer

Air conditioning units are complicated systems. Most people only care about whether or not they are working. But it’s important to consider annual maintenance – as well as DIY procedures to ensure that it performs at maximum efficiency. Follow the steps below to get the most out of your AC this summer and save money and energy!

5 Steps to Get the Most out of Your AC this Summer

Change Filter

Filters can greatly affect the performance of your unit. You should be changing your filters every 3-6 months so that your air quality is best – and your air flow is not restricted from debris caught in the filter.

Clear the Area Around the Unit

It may seem obvious, but clearing the area around your condenser can dramatically affect the efficiency of your unit. Crowding the system can heavily restrict airflow and create a more difficult space for repairs. Trim plants and bushes growing around the unit. For maximum airflow, make sure that there is at least 3 feet of space between the condenser and any plant life.

Programmable Thermostat

One of the easiest ways to regulate the temperature in your home is to get a programmable thermostat. You can set the thermostat to a higher temperature when you leave the house, and a lower, more comfortable temperature, when you are usually home for the day. This prevents your AC from constantly running while you aren’t home to enjoy it!

Use Blinds and Fans to your advantage

Shade is one of the easiest way to cool off outdoors, so why don’t we apply the same idea to our homes? Close your blinds and block out any direct sunlight. This will prevent your rooms from heating up so quickly and causing your AC to run longer and more often. Fans can also help keep you cool, but only if you’re in the room. Fans don’t lower the temperature in a room, but they give the impression that the room is 2-3 degrees cooler due to the wind it creates. Think of it as a wind chill for indoors! Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room, so you don’t waste energy.

Tune-Up

It’s important to always remember you annual HVAC tune-ups. By getting your unit serviced twice a year, you can identify and correct any potential issues in operation and extend the life of your unit. In an inspection we check for all the things listed here – and inspect your unit thoroughly so that there will be no issues throughout the season. A thorough inspection also includes cleaning your drains and coils as well as inspecting your insulation and ventilation so that your air is getting into your home in the right places – and staying there!

Your system should be working for you, but there are a few things you can do to help it along. Saving energy is always welcomed in the summer so you can spend more money and time doing things that you enjoy instead of worrying about your AC! The professionals at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning want you to have a worry-free summer, so schedule your maintenance today! Call us at 405-912-5900 to schedule service!

For information or assistance with HVAC efficiency, give Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 405-794-8900.

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