With many days hitting the 80s and 90s this summer (plus high humidity), our air conditioners have been working overtime. And before we know it, we’ll be turning our furnaces on to keep up with the imminent fall and winter temperatures. The pros at Seider Heating, Plumbing & Electrical came up with a list of our top HVAC tips to help prevent your heating and cooling systems from breaking down when you need them most.
Use These HVAC Tips to Keep Your Systems Running Smoothly and Efficiently
#1 Make sure maintenance is on your to-do list. The best way to prevent the need for air conditioner or furnace repairs is with annual tuneups. For air conditioners, this means scheduling a routine inspection in spring, once temperatures are in the 70s.
Furnace maintenance works a bit differently. With your heating unit, you’ll want to get it inspected before the cold season hits. It’s better to know your system is in good working condition rather than waiting to find out the hard way.
With our Preferred Service Agreement, HVAC maintenance will be one less thing you need to worry about. We’ll remind you when it’s time for a tuneup, plus you’ll get priority service and a 100 percent Carrier® satisfaction guarantee.
#2 Turn thermostats up or down to save on energy costs. Setting your thermostat above 72 degrees Fahrenheit will pay big rewards when it comes to your summer energy bills. And for every degree you raise it above 72, you’ll save roughly eight percent. Using your blinds to keep the sun from heating up your home and switching your ceiling fan to run counter-clockwise can also help you stay cooler.
In winter, do the opposite. Keep the thermostat set to a cooler temperature, open your blinds to let the sunshine in, and close them to trap the heat in. Finally, switch your ceiling fan to run in a clockwise direction. This pushes rising warm air back down to your living space.
#3 Change your air filter. This should be done regularly, especially if you have pets or use your fireplace often. Standard one-inch filters should be replaced every one to three months depending on how dirty it is. Media or high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, should be replaced or cleaned once every six to 12 months. Not only do regular filter changes keep your air cleaner, it also helps your system run more efficiently.
If you aren’t sure which filter type you need or how often to replace it, just ask. We’re happy to make a recommendation for you.
For All Your Heating and Cooling Service Needs, You Can Count on Seider
Have a burning HVAC question? Just ask. Our family-owned and -operated business is built on service. We hire only the best NATE-certified technicians who live and breathe their respective service specialties. We’re proud to keep Southeastern Wisconsin families cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and comfortable every season in between.