Preventing Heating Equipment Related Fires

As the summer heat rolls in, many of us are turning to our trusty AC units to keep cool. However, running your AC all day can lead to hefty energy bills. There are ways to keep your space comfortable without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you lower your AC cost this summer. Adjust the Thermostat One of the simplest ways to save on AC costs is by adjusting your thermostat. Set it to a temperature that keeps you comfortable without forcing your AC unit to constantly run. The higher the temperature, the less energy your AC will consume. For example, keeping your thermostat at a consistent 78°F during the day can significantly reduce the workload on your AC unit. Keep Your Units and Vents Clean Regularly cleaning your AC units and vents is essential for ensuring maximum efficiency. Dust and debris can cause your unit to work harder, increasing your energy bill. It's recommended to check and clean your vents every few months and schedule professional HVAC services for a thorough inspection and cleaning at least once a year. Use a Dehumidifier Pairing your AC unit with a dehumidifier can significantly reduce the workload on your AC unit. By eliminating excess moisture from the air, a dehumidifier helps your AC work more efficiently, ultimately saving you money on energy costs. Remember Maintenance Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC unit operating at peak efficiency. This includes changing air filters, inspecting the ductwork, and ensuring that all components are in good working condition. Scheduling annual HVAC services can help prevent costly breakdowns and keep your energy costs in check. Utilize Ceiling Fans and Circulating Fans Strategic use of ceiling fans and circulating fans can help distribute cool air throughout your space, making it feel more comfortable without overworking your AC unit. By creating a gentle breeze, fans can supplement your AC's cooling power and reduce the need for lower thermostat settings. Close Curtains and Blinds Keeping your curtains and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day can significantly reduce the heat gain in your home, helping maintain a cooler indoor temperature. By blocking out direct sunlight, you can lessen the workload on your AC unit and save on energy costs. Consider a Programmable Thermostat Investing in a programmable thermostat allows you to set higher temperatures when you're away from home, reducing the workload on your AC unit. For example, you can program the thermostat to increase the temperature by a few degrees during the hours you are typically not at home, leading to noticeable energy savings over time without compromising your comfort. Seal Gaps and Cracks Prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from seeping in by sealing any gaps or cracks in your home. This can be done by weather-stripping doors and windows, and sealing any noticeable gaps in walls and floors. By minimizing air leaks, you can help your AC unit maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without consuming excess energy. If you're looking to save on AC costs this summer, implementing these detailed tips can make a real difference. Remember, a little effort goes a long way when it comes to reducing energy consumption and costs. Interested in learning more about how to optimize your AC unit's efficiency or in need of HVAC services? Contact us for more information or to schedule an installation or maintenance. Keep cool and save money this summer!

Your HVAC unit works hard to keep your home comfortable, but did you know that it can also suffer from sun damage? The sun’s UV rays can cause significant wear and tear to your HVAC system, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement. Below is a break down of some of the effects of sun damage on your HVAC unit and tips for protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays. UV rays can cause a variety of problems for your HVAC unit, including: Fading and cracking of exterior components: Exposure to the sun's harsh UV rays can gradually deteriorate the paint finish, causing it to fade over time, while also promoting the breakdown of plastic components like brackets, gaskets, and hoses. The prolonged heat exposure can compromise the integrity of wiring, causing it to fray and potentially disrupt the system's functionality, making it not only less appealing aesthetically but also compromising its overall efficiency and performance. Reduced efficiency: When your HVAC unit is constantly exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months, it must work tirelessly to cool your home. This increased workload not only puts more strain on the system but also leads to a spike in energy consumption, ultimately resulting in higher utility bills for you. Overheating: If your HVAC unit is consistently exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time, especially during the hotter months of the year, it can overheat, leading to potential compressor failure and the need for potentially costly AC repair services. Furthermore, this prolonged exposure to sunlight not only increases the risk of overheating but also forces your unit to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home or business, potentially driving up energy costs as well. Ways to Prevent Sun Damage to Your HVAC Unit: Shade your HVAC unit: One of the most effective strategies to shield your HVAC unit from the harmful effects of sun exposure is to ensure that it is shaded from direct sunlight. Research has demonstrated that even a mere few hours of direct sunlight can result in a noticeable uptick of at least 10% in your monthly energy expenses. When contemplating the installation of an HVAC system, it is prudent to seek out a site that is naturally sheltered from direct sunlight to allow your unit to operate with optimal efficiency. In the event that a shaded area is not readily available, a good alternative is to plant trees or shrubs that can provide the necessary shading. Just make sure you leave sufficient space for routine repair and maintenance tasks to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your HVAC system. Place your thermostat away from direct sunlight: Proper placement of the thermostat is essential for optimal temperature control in your home. It's important to avoid direct sunlight, as exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to inaccurate readings. This could result in your HVAC unit working harder than needed to maintain a comfortable climate. To ensure precise temperature measurement and efficient operation, the thermostat should be centrally situated in a room, away from any sources of heat or drafts, such as open windows. By positioning it effectively, the thermostat can relay the correct temperature information to the outdoor unit, allowing it to effectively regulate the indoor climate throughout the seasons, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Schedule regular repair and maintenance:  Regular repair and maintenance are essential steps to minimize the impact of sun damage on your HVAC unit and extend its longevity. By scheduling routine inspections with a skilled technician, you not only ensure that potential issues are detected early but also prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs. These maintenance tasks may range from clearing debris around the unit to meticulously cleaning off dust accumulation. The technician may even inspect the unit for any faulty wires or components that might hinder its performance. This approach to HVAC care is crucial to promoting efficiency and reliability in your system. If you’re in need of HVAC services, including installation or maintenance of your HVAC units, contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Our team of experienced technicians can help you protect your HVAC unit from sun damage and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today for all your HVAC needs!