Of Temperatures and Air Conditioners

Date check: We are already at the tail end of spring. This means that it will really not be long before sunglasses, sleeveless shirts, and shorts will be in fashion once again. But since we will not really be going out and about just about everywhere this year, one trend that we will surely

AC repair in Houston TX

 

experience as the warm weather slowly comes is using our air conditioners once again. And Air Check Mechanical Service will be checking them out! Cooling off is essential and has never been more important these days when we have to stay indoors most of the time. So, whether your house has a window unit, ductless systems, or central air, it won’t be long until you will be making close acquaintances with your AC.

And with that, you will surely be thinking, “My electric bill will be skyrocketing yet again.” But since we don’t have the option of going out yet since we are still highly encouraged to stay indoors or run the risk of getting sick, you might think then that you will just have to bear with your exorbitant utility bill. Not really, as you may have the option of finding that sweet spot of a comfortable temperature that offers you and the family relief from the summer heat but doesn’t cause your AC to strain too much that will make it use too much energy you will be paying for. So, what is that balanced temperature you can set for your AC?

That Right Temp in the Summer
With the heat and humidity the summer brings, the temptation for you is to crank up (more like crank down, actually) that thermostat to the lowest temperature and let that cool air erase your stresses away. But at what cost? If you don’t want to be burdened with a hefty utility bill, try some trial and error. Start with the Department of Energy’s recommended 78 degrees, wait for three minutes, and if you still feel hot, move the temperature a degree lower, then feel it for another three minutes, just until you’ve found a comfortable temp setting. Don’t go to the coolest right away or else, that high bill’s gonna come for you.

To stay comfortable and save money this summer, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78F (26C) when you are home. Setting your air conditioner to this level will allow you to stay cool and avoid an unusually high electricity bill.
(Via: https://www.directenergy.com/learning-center/recommended-thermostat-settings-summer)

When You are Gone, Make It Go High or Turn It Off
Take advantage of times when no one is in a room, turn off the cooling for that room. It doesn’t make sense that an AC is still running in your bedroom when everyone’s in the living room on in their “home offices”. If you have central air, this is where a… (cue drumroll) programmable thermostat would prove most helpful. If each individual room has a window-type AC, then make sure to turn the unit off when you’re leaving your room.

If you will be away from home for more than 4 hours, we recommend adjusting the thermostat 5 degrees higher in the summer or 5 degrees lower in the winter. This is a good idea for weekdays when the family is out at work and school.
The savings earned by adjusting your thermostat by more than 5 degrees again will be offset by returning the settings to normal when you come home.
(Via: https://peninsulaheatingandair.com/2020/05/08/hvac-maintenance-faq-what-should-i-set-my-thermostat-to-when-im-away-from-home/)

Use a Fan!
Give your AC a break especially during the evenings by switching to using a fan when you and the family is going to sleep. This is another advantage of a programmable thermostat because you can program it to a money-saving setting. For example, if your bedtime is midnight, program your AC to run until 2 in the morning, then your fan will still be running while the AC is already automatically switched off. Besides, with COVID19 already discovered to also be airborne, then it would be great for your house to have great air circulation and flow with your windows open and your fan on. Alas, you also have the option of using the fan mode for your HVAC system during non-peak times.

By using the fan alone to provide cool air and ventilation, more power and energy is saved by the unit. Not only that, having the fan mode on allows the unit to take out some of your indoor air that may no longer be within the recommended quality.
(Via: https://www.oasis-aircon.com/blog/what-is-the-aircon-fan-mode)

Your AC Needs to be Well-Maintained.
Your AC system is composed of various machines that need regular upkeep and preventive maintenance for it to continue functioning properly. Your desired temperature will never be achieved by your AC if its components are not properly maintained. I mean, what can you expect from an AC with dirty filters and coils that have dirt and debris stuck on them? They need to be cleaned regularly. Thus, it is important that your system is checked the professionals regularly.

Plus, scheduled checkups minimize the possibility of unexpected repairs. While servicing your unit, a qualified technician will inform you of any worn equipment and the need for repairs. This, in turn, helps you prevent further damage and avoid making an emergency call.
(Via: https://www.urdesignmag.com/technology/2020/05/14/the-importance-of-servicing-your-air-conditioner-regularly/)

 

For your AC servicing needs, look no further. Have a chat with us.

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