Helpful Hints for HVAC maintenance:
* Check and replace or clean filters every month. Clogged filters mean higher operating costs.
* Don’t try to maintain different temperatures in different rooms by totally closing duct outlets, you will unbalance the system and reduce its efficiency.
* Use bath and kitchen exhaust fans sparingly when air conditioning is operating.
* To reduce the time your air conditioner must be on, do heat-producing chores such as baking and dish washing, during the cooler hours in the morning or evening.
* Check weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows for leaks.
* Shade your home with trees wherever possible.
* Keep all windows and exterior doors shut when air conditioner is on.
* Do not short cycle your compressor by moving the thermostat up and down too rapidly. Set your temperature slowly and leave it for at least 5 minutes before resetting.
* To maximize energy efficiency and minimize utility bills, set the thermostat to a comfortable level normally between 68° F to 71° F for heating, and between 76° to 78° F for cooling, and leave it there. Then set the fan switch to either the “ON” or “AUTO” position.
* The less you change the thermostat setting, the more comfortable you will be, the lower your utility bills will be, and less wear and tear on the system’s compressor will incur. Changing settings frequently will cause the supplemental heater to run more often, and turning the system on or off expends extra energy to bring the temperature back to a comfortable level. Setting air conditioning controls too low does not cool the home faster and the same principle applies to heating.
