10 Do’s and Don’ts for Keeping your AC Cool as You

Confess. You don’t know everything about your AC. It’s summer – isn’t it time you learned a thing or two? Read on.

With a little consideration and maintenance, a home’s air conditioning system can last for many long, hot summers.

“It pays to sweat the small stuff with air conditioning,” says Rob Mitchell, the founder. “You’ll be happier and your system will work better if you keep on top of small maintenance and upkeep issues, especially as HVAC systems age.”

Here are 10 do’s and don’ts for every Front Range homeowner who wants to keep cool:

  1. DO change air filters monthly
    Check for dust and debris on the filter at least monthly during heavy use. Dirty filters tax the AC, blocking airflow and reducing efficiency.
  2. DO start your system early in the season
    Don’t wait until peak heat. Switch on the AC in spring, when there’s time to monitor how well it’s working and address any problem.
  3. DO have your system cleaned and serviced yearly
    A professional service technician will find and fix issues before they roll up into a costly emergency. A tune-up will ensure your system runs efficiently, saving you money all summer.
  4. DO NOT use pleated filters or thick allergy filters
    These hefty filters add more resistance to air flow and make your system more expensive to operate.
  5. DO NOT lower the thermostat more than 5 degrees
    Cooling costs increase by up to 5 percent for every degree you lower the temperature.
  6. DO NOT run the system when it’s below 60 degrees outside
    It’s a long story involving refrigerant, evaporator coils and condensers. Short story: air conditioners weren’t designed to be used in colder temperatures.
  7. DO NOT run the system during lightning storms
    Even a weak power surge caused by nearby lighting strikes can hurt your system, damaging its circuitry and controls. Turn your system off and wait out the storm.
  8. DO turn off your humidifier when the AC is on
    You want less moisture in the air in hot weather, not more, in order to keep cool.
  9. DO check condensation lines
    Your AC pulls as much as 5 gallons of water from your home’s air during the day. Make sure the drain lines are clear of algae and are draining properly.
  10. DO remember this setting: 75 degrees
    It’s an optimum setting for summer to keep you cool and keep your AC system working at peak efficiency. Constantly adjusting the thermostat is costly and inefficient.

Call Mitchell for prompt service and repair of your HVAC and learn how to keep your system in fine working order year-round. “Let us sweat the small stuff about keeping your HVAC in top shape,” says Mitchell.