AHR Mechanical Cooling and Heating Services

Keep all windows and doors closed when air conditioning equipment is running. Close shades and window coverings on the sunny side of the house to block the sun’s summer rays and lower the heat being transferred into the home.  In summer, set your thermostat to the cooling mode and to a temperature that is comfortable. The average resident is comfortable at a setting of 78 to 80 degrees. For every degree that you lower your thermostat below 78 degrees you increase your electric consumption by 2% to 5%.  When cooling your home, setting the variable speed fan to the “on” position will cause the indoor fan to run continuous with very little energy consumption, thus providing uninterrupted circulation of air between cycles. Many users are able to set their thermostat a few degrees warmer with this movement of air. Ceiling fans can also be used to move air and allow us to leave our thermostat at a higher setting. Programmable thermostats can be used to automatically raise and lower temperatures as needed when away or sleeping. Do not turn your air conditioner off during the day when you are away from home. Raising the temperature to 82 or 83 degrees while away is a better solution to saving energy. This will use less energy and still allow for the air conditioner to recover when you lower the thermostat to your desired comfort level when you return home in the evening. Do moisture-producing chores (such as laundry, running the dishwasher) and chores that require heat (baking, cooking) in the early morning or at night when it’s cooler. Also, chores that involve exercise, such as cleaning floors, windows, etc. raise your body temperature and should be done when outside temperatures are cooler if it is an option. Sufficient insulation can be an economical way of reducing your electric bill while increasing the overall comfort of your home. If you need an insulation professional referral, please contact us. A well ventilated attic will decrease the heat build up and can lower your air conditioning usage. Your outdoor coil should be kept clean and free from debris. Finally, routine maintenance keeps your equipment running at its best. Small repairs that may be performed during these regular visits will increase efficiency as well as avoid costly and unwanted larger emergency repairs.