As summer rapidly approaches, many of us will cross our fingers and hope that our A/C will work well enough to keep our homes from feeling like the Sahara. Though crossing your fingers may be all the luck you need when hopping the snow cone stand will still carry your favorite flavor this summer, there are better ways to ensure a more favorable outcome for the comfort level of your home. The kind people of Fort Worth Heat and Air are here to help homeowners be proactive and not reactive by giving us some great tips on how to get the most out of your A/C and even save some money.
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First and foremost, change your filter(s) regularly. Airflow is of the utmost importance to your air handler. Filter sizes vary just like HVAC equipment varies. Be sure you know what size filters your system(s) use. It’s a good rule of thumb to check your filter(s) when you receive your electric bill, which is typically every thirty days. Pet dander, dust, construction in your vicinity, etc. all play a role in how often you should change your filter(s).
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Secondly, if your drain has the correct fittings, mix one-half cup of bleach with one-half cup of water and pour it down the PVC drain twice a year, typically in the fall and spring.
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Third, sometime in the late spring, once the trees and bushes have finished shedding, wash your condenser (your outdoor unit). Seed pods, leaves, dirt, grass clippings, etc. get caught in the fins of your condenser coil. Do not remove any panels. Power off your condenser with the disconnect or breaker. Using a regular water hose, spray water downward on the condenser coil. Do not spray directly into the coil, as you will only pack the debris into the fins. Wait fifteen minutes and turn your condenser back on.
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Fourth, it’s a good idea, during the summer months, to turn your thermostat up when you’re going to be gone for the day. It’s important to note, however, that you should not turn it up more than four or five degrees.
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If you think your equipment is reaching the age of needing repairs and/or replacement, now is the time. This is the last year 14 SEER equipment will be available in Texas. All HVAC equipment manufacturers are required to retool which, of course, means higher prices across the board. Another hit to the HVAC industry is the upcoming phasing out of R410A refrigerant, which many still consider the “new” refrigerant. This will bring about more price increases for existing parts for repairs.