More Tips
From The Evenflow Guy:
Set the Thermostat Properly
The most economical operation of your air conditioning system comes from
setting the thermostat properly. Set the thermostat at the highest summer
setting at which you are comfortable. Typical settings are 78 degrees for
summer cooling. When cooling, your operating costs increase 3 percent to 8 percent for each
degree your thermostat is raised. Continuously adjusting the thermostat can be
very inefficient. You can, however, raise the thermostat 2-3 degrees during the
day while you're away to save money, or consider using a programmable
thermostat to automatically increase and decrease temperatures during the day
and night. Flip the fan switch on your thermostat to the "Fan On"
mode to ensure the air in your home is always being circulated to prevent hot
and cold pockets from forming.
Tune-Up Air Conditioning System Annually
Energy costs has increased 30 percent or more this year. One way you can minimize this
increased expense is by having annual service done to your air conditioner.
Studies show that homeowners having annual service to their systems spend an
average of $30 less each month because of increased efficiency. Lack of regular
maintenance is also the #1 cause of system breakdowns and costly repairs.
Keep the Air Filter Clean
The easiest way to ensure your system operated efficiently is by keeping the
air filter clean. There are several types of air filters and several possible
locations for the air filter on your system. Ask your service technician
next time he's out at your home to show you where your air filter is located
and which type of air filter to use. If you have allergies, you should look at
a pleated allergy filter or a media or electronic style air cleaner.
Wait 24 Hours Before Powering Up
If you have disconnected the power to your central air conditioning system in
the winter, wait 24-hours after turning power back on to your air conditioner
before running it. The compressor needs this time to warm-up and work properly.
Control Direct Sunlight
Keep shades and curtains drawn to reduce radiant heat from the sun. Install
awnings and/or plant shade trees by southern facing windows to keep the hottest
rays of the summer sun from shining directly into your house. This will reduce
the cooling load in the summer, making your air conditioning system operate
more economically.
Keep Vents and Grilles Unobstructed
Arrange your furniture and drapes so that all output vents and intake grilles
are free from obstruction. This will also reduce the cooling load on your air
conditioner and allow for more economical operation.
Keep A/C Unit and Coils Clean and Unobstructed
Air conditioning units require at least 12-18 inches of clearance for proper
performance. Clear and cut-back any shrubs or bushes around you're AC unit and
keep fallen leaves, grass clippings, foliage, and other dirt and debris away
from the outdoor unit. For peak performance, also keep the air conditioners
coils clean by following the manufacturer's instructions.
Install an Attic Fan
Attics can reach temperatures of 140-150 degrees and this build-up of hot air
can overload your cooling system and make the top floor of your home
uncomfortable. Installing a thermostatically controlled attic fan can
drastically decrease the build-up of hot air, saving your money and increasing
the life of your cooling system.
Use a Dehumidifier
A damp basement can add moisture to the whole house, making it uncomfortable
during the hot and humid months of summer. Proper humidity levels also deter
dust mites; control contaminates, and prevents moisture from devaluing your
property. Evenflow's Heating and Cooling specializes in whole-home dehumidification
systems that are effective, quiet, and virtually maintenance free.
Replace Older Windows and Doors
Windows and doors should always be shut while your air conditioning is running,
but replacing older, inefficient windows and doors can also lower your energy
costs and extend the life of your air conditioner. Windows with more efficient
low-E glass reduces the sun's warming rays. Insulated doors keep the cool air
in and the warm air out during the summer.
Use Electrical Appliances in the Evening
Avoid using heat-generating appliances like the oven, dishwasher, washing
machine, and dryer during the day. Use them instead in the evening when
electricity rates may be lower and heat from these appliances won't increase
the energy load on your air conditioner.
Keep Heat Away from the Thermostat
Make sure no heat-generating appliances are near your thermostat, including
lamps, televisions, and stereo and computer equipment. Such heat-generating
appliances can affect the setting of your thermostat and the efficiency of your
cooling system.
Keep an Air Tight House
Ensure maximum retention of cooled air by adding insulation to outside walls
and to the attic of your home. Seal cracks and use storm doors and windows
and/or insulated doors and windows to prevent air leaks.
Department of Energy
Washington D.C. announced new energy tax savings for homeowners. By upgrading
your home's air conditioner you could receive a tax incentive.
Weatherization
You can increase the comfort in your home while reducing your energy needs by
up to 30 percent by investing just a few hundred dollars in proper insulation and weatherization
products. Cool air leaking out of your home during the spring/summer can waste
a substantial portion of your energy dollars. One of the quickest dollar-saving
tasks you can do is caulk, seal and weather strip all seams, cracks, and
openings to the outside - especially windows and doors. You can save 10 percent or
more on your energy bills by reducing the air leaks in your home.
