Here are 5 Great Tips for Optimizing Your AC this Summer
Are you gearing up for a great summer season? Believe it or not summer is here already and so is the heat. The last thing you want to be concerned about is if your AC unit is going to work this summer. Buffo’s Refrigeration does more than just refrigeration, we also offer HVAC services and repair, so we know firsthand just how important it is for people to have their AC units working properly. Here are five great tips that will help you make the most out of your air conditioning unit this year.
1) Get Your AC Serviced Before the Heat
HVAC repair companies are always busiest on the coldest days of winter or on the hottest days of summer when a heatwave hits. Because of this they will be less available for immediate repairs during the time when you need it the most due to the high demand. Get ahead of the crowds and schedule your HVAC servicing early on in the summer.
2) Check Your Air Filter Regularly
Your air filter is crucially important to the functionality of your AC unit. When an air filter is dirty or clogged up with dust and debris, not only will your unit not work properly with producing cold air, but it will also have to work harder to push air through the clogged up filter. This makes it so your AC unit uses more energy, which will cost you more money. We recommend that you check your air filter regularly, meaning at least once per month. It only takes a few moments to check, and could make a big difference in the cost and comfort of your home. If you think your AC unit might not be running properly, check out our article about 5 signs that your AC unit needs repair.
3) Raise Your Thermostat
Having a thermostat is very important to using your air conditioner efficiently. If you raise the temperature when it is cooler outside and when you are not home, even just a few degrees, it can make a substantial difference on your overall energy bill. Also, the location of your thermostat matters more than you might think. Your thermostat acts as a sensor for your AC unit, so when it reads a certain temperature your AC will kick on to cool down the house, assuming the entire home is of the same temperature. Therefore, if your thermostat is in a hot location in your home it is more likely to cause your AC to be turned on more regularly, even when it might not be necessary.
4) Keep an Eye on Your Condenser Unit
Similar to your air filters, you should also check your outdoor condenser unit regularly to make sure that it isn’t clogged. Since these units are located outside, they are prone to becoming clogged up with debris from trees, dirt, and other natural elements. If you find that it is clogged, you can clean it out with a hose. You also want to ensure that the area surrounding the unit is clear of plants or other obstacles to allow for maximum air flow. Like air filters, if these are clogged they won’t be able to produce cold air properly.
5) Use Ceiling Fans
Believe it or not, ceiling fans actually work together with your air conditioner to help create a cooler, more comfortable temperature in your home. Because ceiling fans move the air in the room around they create a wind chill effect, so even if the air is not actually getting cooler, it feels like it is. This can allow you to raise the temperature of your thermostat by a few degrees, ultimately saving you some money while maximizing the comfort inside your home. Not only does this save you some money from your energy bill, but since it reduces the amount you need to use your unit, you will be less likely to need AC repairs.
Contact Us for Your Summer HVAC Needs
Call Buffo’s at 775-782-8204 or contact us for a free quote. We are also happy to answer any questions that you might have. Here at Buffo’s, we are fully equipped with the parts you need and the know-how to get it done right the first time. Stay cool this summer with help from our experts!