At the end of a long, cold winter in Illinois, the arrival of spring is a cause for celebration. Spring is also the best time to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for warmer weather. Taking a few preparatory steps now ensures that your cooling system will keep you comfortable later when temperatures rise. Preparing now can save you a significant amount of money over the length of the cooling season as well. Ron's Heating & Air Conditioning is pleased to offer five effective ways to enhance your comfort and increase your savings.
1. Check Your Air Filters.
The air filter in your air conditioner not only helps protect you from breathing in allergens and other particulates but protects the equipment from the accumulation of dust and debris as well. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HVAC system air filters should be checked every month for cleanliness during the cooling season and replaced as needed. The EPA recommends replacing the filter at a minimum of every three months.
2. Schedule an Air Conditioner Tune Up
Preventative maintenance is the most economical way to make certain that your air conditioning system operates at peak performance when you most need it. At Ron's Heating & Air Conditioning, our maintenance plan includes conveniently scheduled inspections and tune ups that help keep your air conditioning system running at peak efficiency, saving you money on monthly energy bills. Because a well-maintained cooling system lasts longer and needs fewer repairs than a neglected one, you’ll enjoy long-term savings as well. As a PMA customer, you’ll receive discounts on parts and labor on any necessary repairs too.
3. Seal and Insulate Air Ducts
Leaks in your air conditioning system’s ductwork can impede the system’s energy efficiency by as much as 25 percent, according to the EPA. Should your seasonal tune up reveal leaks in the network of air ducts that runs through your home, sealing and insulating the ductwork is an affordable solution. The air distribution system will deliver better performance and lower your energy costs as well.
4. Install a Programmable Thermostat
When temperatures rise, it can be tempting to leave your cooling system running while you’re away from home so that you don’t return to a hot and humid environment. A programmable thermostat offers a more affordable option, allowing you to program your air conditioner to
adjust temperatures according to your family’s schedule. Some models even let you interface with the device remotely from your computer or mobile device.
5. Consider Replacement
If your air conditioning system is more than ten years old, need an expensive repair or simply isn’t delivering the level of comfort that you want, replacement can be a viable solution. Modern systems are up to 50 percent more efficient than outdated systems and offer better performance too. The experts at Ron's Heating & Air Conditioning can conduct a cost comparison to ensure that you enjoy the best value.