Summer is finally here and we want to help you BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT! Many common cooling issues can be prevented with correct use of your air conditioner. Your air conditioner is most likely in your backyard or on the side of your home near the patio door or window. It’s important to make sure you take care of your air conditioning unit just like any other appliance in your home.
Take Care Of Your AC
Use the following tips to maximize your air conditioner this summer:
1. START EARLY
The A/C needs to be turned on early in the day before the outside temperature begins to rise and the structure begins to heat up. If you choose to wait to turn your A/C on upon returning home and your home or apartment is already hot, it can take several hours to cool it back down to a comfortable level.
2. CHECK THE FILTER
Check to make sure the A/C filter is clean. Some newer A/C’s have a removable filter with a screen similar to a dryer vent. These can be cleaned with warm soapy water. Other A/C’s have replaceable foam filters. Contact our office if your foam filter appears in need of replacement. Follow our step by step guide on how to maintain your A/C.
3. CLOSE BLINDS
Close all blinds during the day, especially on windows that face south and west. This greatly reduces extra heat caused from the sun through the glass.
4. CHECK THE VENT SETTING
If your A/C has an open/closed vent setting, make sure it is in the closed position. A closed position cools air from inside the home. An open position draws in hot outside air and tries to cool, which will not be helpful if it is warmer outside than inside.
5. USE MEDIUM-HIGH SETTING
The A/C temperature setting should be on a medium high setting. (On a 1-10 dial setting, the ideal setting is 7). If the setting is set too high (10), it is more likely to freeze up and quit running.
6. SUPPLEMENT WITH A FAN
A box or oscillating fan will help circulate the cool air throughout your home or apartment.
7. CLOSE DOORS
Close the door to any rooms you don’t need to cool (closet, storage, bathroom, etc.). The smaller the space, the quicker and easier it will be to cool.
The air conditioning unit is only designed to cool the air 15-20 degrees from the outside temperature. So if it is 90 degrees outside, your air conditioner is working correctly if your home is 70-75 degrees. It won’t turn your home into an icebox!
If ran and maintained properly, the A/C will keep all of your home comfortable in warm temperatures. If there is cold air blowing out of the vents into the rooms, your air conditioner is most likely working properly.
Following these tips will help keep you cool this summer while also caring for your air conditioner.