Hot Tips for Staying Cool in the Summer Heat
Inefficient HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) systems not only cost you money, but can also lead to health and comfort issues for your family. The following safety tips will help you stay cool when the weather heats up:
Maintenance is Key:
The best safety precaution you can take is to schedule regular maintenance with a certified and trained HVAC technician. They’ll be able to help prevent problems before they start and will make sure your system is operating at its most efficient settings.
Keep the Air Flowing:
Performing basic maintenance such as clearing debris from the outdoor unit, dusting off the evaporator coils or replacing air filters on a regular basis can improve the function of your system and your home air quality.
Don’t Forget the Batteries:
Clogged air filters could result in deadly carbon monoxide fumes leaking into your home. Exposure can cause nausea, headaches, dizziness, breathing problems and other serious symptoms. Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors throughout your home; testing monthly for dead or weakened batteries.
Stay Safe in Severe Weather:
Educate yourself and your family on how to operate the circuit breaker controls for HVAC equipment during power outages. Installing surge protectors on your system will automatically shut down power to your system if an electrical spike occurs.
Upgraded Features:
Fluctuating temperatures too frequently can make your HVAC system work harder and less efficiently. Installing a programmable thermostat can help reduce energy use, save money on your utility bill and help prolong the life of your equipment.
Updating Your System:
Air conditioning units have a suggested lifespan of 10 years. Updating your system with a newer, energy efficient HVAC unit will help lower your environmental impact with less energy usage and fewer carbon emissions.