This summer has been up and down. Lots of rain, but incredible heat and humidity as is always the case for us here in Missouri. It’s the “Dog Days” and the hottest days call for making sure your AC doesn’t crap out, or cost you an arm and a leg while you deal with the oppressive heat. Here’s a punch list to stay safe and cool (and keep your coin in your pocket also).
Check your filters
Check your air filter once a month in June, July and August. This is especially important as things dry out and dust plus allergens start filling the air.
Replacing filters is one of the easiest and most effective methods of conserving energy and saving money on your HVAC usage. And much like changing the oil in your car, it’s a critical step in maintaining your system’s long-term health.
Keep your A/C in the shade
Air conditioners with proper shading can run more efficiently. Air in a shaded space is cooler than the surrounding air, meaning the A/C will have an easier time cooling the air. Not shaded currently? Consider planting a tree. Great for the environment, and some natural shade may help cool your house in years to come…
Keep heat away from your thermostat
Are there lamps, fans or electronics by your thermostat? These, actually, can make it run longer and over-cool your house. This will crush your bill and leave you angry about life. So, make sure nothing excessive lives by the thermostat. Just move things away if you can. We see this all the time. So don’t make us come out there for no good reason! Look around, make the moves.
Deal with a FEW more degrees
For most people in C0lumbia MO, each degree you dial below 78 increases your energy consumption by about 8 %. If your monthly electric bill is about $200, you’ll save $15 a month with EACH degree you can stand above 78. That’s a pretty big number, but think about variable cooling. Maybe 80 during the day when you leave the house and then notching it down to 77 after dinner and through the night as the outside naturally cools a bit?
Get a new unit
You may find your old air conditioner is no longer efficient. Or, it’s just not keeping up with the heat. This is a sign it’s time to call in the pros. New units actually save you money over 5 and 6 year periods. Plus, the price of comfort is hard to put a real number on : )
Remember, we’re open 24/7 all 365. So if you find that its’ time, make sure and give us a call.