Cut Back On Cooling Costs

Summer is approaching very quickly and the heat is already beginning to crank up. It is very important to make sure you’re keeping utility costs low and affordable. During warmer months, your AC can take a toll on your wallet, but it doesn’t have to. Here are a few tips for keeping your AC usage controlled.

1. Keep it Steady – Leave your AC set at one consistent temperature or make a gradual increase or decrease every few hours. A programmable thermostat is good for keeping temperatures consistent. Cutting your system off pushes your system work harder to get the inside temperature back down to a cool and comfortable degree.

2. Avoid heated appliances – We know people who stray away from frying foods, baking and blow drying their hair during the summer and they may be on to something. Cutting back on appliances that generate heat will keep from allowing temperatures to rise, in return, helping your house stay cool.

3. Place plants – Place plants in and around your home to help create shade and counter sunlight; thus creating a more cool temperature and less need to crank your AC.

4. Replace your AC unit – Replacing old worn out systems with newer, energy efficient systems can cut energy costs nearly in half. Keep the filter clean for proper air flow and you will be well on your way to a lighter bill. more about

If you are thinking of upgrading your AC unit or need an expert opinion call W.G. Speeks of Virginia today!

Air Conditioning and Allergies

Time for an HVAC Repair or Air Duct Cleaning? 

Many are welcoming the warmer weather, but unfortunately warm weather brings allergies along with it. While your home should be a place to get a break from nature’s discomforts, allergies can sometimes be the product of an unserviced AC unit. The good news is you can avoid the annoyances of these indoor allergies by getting your air conditioner routinely serviced.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

The first thing you should do is check your HVAC filter for buildup of dust and dirt. Dirty HVAC filters restrict airflow and reduce the entire efficiency of the HVAC system, causing your heating costs to increase over the fall/winter season. You should clean your air filters monthly, and if you’ve forgotten to clean over the summer, it is probably time for a replacement.

Clean Vents

Much like your HVAC filter, dirty and clogged vents can have repercussions for your home’s air quality and heating system’s efficiency. Dirty vents means dust, dirt, allergens and mold could be circulating throughout your home. These things mean poor air quality and potential allergic reactions for family members. Just like your air filters, when vents are clogged, the airflow is reduced and your HVAC efficiency is compromised.

Fall and Winter HVAC Preventative Maintenance Tips

Fall officially began this past Thursday, Sept. 22^nd and although it doesn’t feel like Fall outside quite yet, cooler days are in our near future. If you haven’t had your HVAC system maintenance serviced for the upcoming fall and winter weather, now is the perfect time to do some maintenance.

Most heating demands in homes account for 33% of the total energy consumption. So before starting up your heating system for the first time this year, here are some helpful tips on making sure your HVAC system is in tip top shape for the cold weather season.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

The first thing you should do is check your HVAC filter for buildup of dust and dirt. Dirty HVAC filters restrict airflow and reduce the entire efficiency of the HVAC system, causing your heating costs to increase over the fall/winter season. You should clean your air filters monthly, and if you’ve forgotten to clean over the summer, it is probably time for a replacement.

Clean Vents

Much like your HVAC filter, dirty and clogged vents can have repercussions for your home’s air quality and heating system’s efficiency. Dirty vents means dust, dirt, allergens and mold could be circulating throughout your home. These things mean poor air quality and potential allergic reactions for family members. Just like your air filters, when vents are clogged, the airflow is reduced and your HVAC efficiency is compromised.

Adjust the Supply Register/Check for Drafts

Cold air falls and hot air rises. So it makes sense that when the weather gets cold, it’s best to open a few of your supply registers on the first floor and close a few on the second floor. This facilitates the heating of your home in a more efficient way. Also, drafts can be a major cause of a cold home when your heating system is running. Windows and doors are the biggest culprits of drafts. Check your seals and frames for signs of wear and damage.

Source Link : AC Repair Richmond, VA