Now that you’ve shopped for the perfect swimsuit, BBQ grill, and pool floats, it’s time to give some thought to your HVAC system. Ditch the sweaters and heated blankets, and mix yourself a nice cold cocktail. It’s time to talk about keeping that air conditioner in tip-top shape this summer!
Odds are that you don’t think about your AC unit on a daily basis, but what if you were to press the “on” switch only to find warm, dank air being pushed through the HVAC filtration system? Read on for a few bits of info that we think will help you to keep your HVAC setup running at its very best.
Keep it Shady
One of the best ways to keep your entire house cool is keeping your home shaded. This could mean planting more trees around your property, drawing the blinds during blazing sunny days, and even making sure that all outdoor HVAC components are in the shade, as well. Tall grasses and trees that are strategically planted in proximity to your AC compressor are a good way to go. There should always be adequate space around the unit(s), so check with an HVAC technician prior to planting anything.
Switch to a Programmable Thermostat
We take for granted that, at the push of a button, our home is cooled and heated to our heart’s desire. The thermostat in your office or home allows you to modify the indoor temperature to suit your needs, but do you have a programmable unit installed? Switching to a swanky new digital thermostat with a timer is a surefire way to extend your HVAC system’s life. Setting the temperature in advance allows the system to run when it’s most needed, increasing efficiency and reducing waste.
Insulation is Key
A properly insulated space is the key to maintaining your indoor temperature. Cranking the AC in a space with ratty old insulation is like throwing a thimble of water on a blazing inferno. Heat loss via windows makes up 25-30% of cooling and heating electricity use. Have your home inspected to find out if your existing insulation needs to be upgraded; many eco-friendly options exist and they’ll help you save money in the long run.
Replace those Air Filters
One more thing to take into consideration are the air filters in your HVAC system. Properly maintaining and replacing these simple, inexpensive items will help extend the life of your HVAC setup, while keeping your home cool, clean, and safe. Air filters ensure that your AC is running efficiently, as they collect dust, pet dander, and other pollutants that you’d otherwise be breathing in.
At Taylor Heating & AC, we offer a variety of other innovative heating and cooling services that will help maximize your home’s comfort and lower your bills. If you’re in the Greater Puget Sound region, give us a call at (253) 208-5315, we’d love to help!
