Five Things You Should Know Before You Crank the AC...
If you haven't already turned on the air conditioning for allergy season, it won't be long before the temperature and humidity reach the point of no return and our good ol' Lowcountry heat and humidity will be here to stay for the long haul….Here is what you need to know before the hot weather arrives..before you’re looking for that round the clock relief....
1.We may sound like a broken record for saying so, but please for your A.C. system's sake, keep your air filter clean..... And make sure you have fresh batteries in your thermostat.
Not that we don’t want to see you, but trust us, these two tips are the surest way to avoid service calls. (*Fact: people who neglect to keep their air filters clean generate the most service calls….)
2. Your air conditioning system should be inspected annually (twice a year if it's also used for heating).
This may seem like a luxury expense, but it's not. Aside from keeping your home safe, such maintenance will maximize the energy savings from your system. The average Service First service call costs $70.00… and if we do find something wrong and further repair is needed, we will build that fee into your repair costs…so it’s actually a win-win for you.....
3. A mild day is a good day to test your system.
Turn on your air conditioning before you really need it... to ensure it's working properly. If you hold off until the outside temps hit 85 or higher and there's a problem, you will probably have to wait for a repairman. Our repair schedules typically start to fill up this month..... We'll always make time for you....but a scheduled service call makes better use of YOUR time...
4. If your air conditioning system is at least 12 years old, you might want to consider replacing it.
Most systems have a life span of 12 to 15 years, but the energy savings alone might be reason enough to replace yours before it outlives its usefulness. The Department of Energy estimates that a newer, more energy-efficient system will save you 20 percent on utility costs. *Several manufacturers also offer some sweet rebates..... Since we do installation and sales, we’ll be happy to help you find the most cost effective options for you.
5. Make sure your HVAC compressor is free of debris!
A central AC system's air compressor and condenser are usually located outside the house, close to your foundation. It works best when there's about 24 inches of clear space in all directions, so get rid of nearby shrubs, tall grass, leaves, and hanging branches….seriously....when it gets really really hot out there, you’ll be glad you took our advice… pull those weeds now!
These five things you need to know may well be five things you already know...but if you haven't acted on them...it can cost you a pretty penny and a cool night's sleep when you need it most.
Call us- we'll be glad to work with you... and remember... Service First before you crank up your AC system for the summer....
Just another good reason for why we're keepin' it cool in Charleston!
