Listed
below are some tips and suggestions you can use to save money on your utility bills, heating and air conditioning equipment,
and service. For other answers to your questions concerning new products, energy efficiency ratings, savings on your utility
bills, repair or replacement service.
Set the thermostat
The most
economical operation of your system comes from setting the thermostat properly. Set the thermostat at the highest summer setting
or the lowest winter setting at which you are comfortable. Typical settings are 78 degrees for summer cooling and 70 degrees
for winter heating. When cooling, your operating costs increase from 3% to 8% for each degree your thermostat is lowered.
When heating, your operating costs increase for each degree your thermostat is raised.
Keep
the air filter clean
The easiest way to ensure your system operates efficiently and economically is by
keeping the air filter clean. There are several types of air filters and several possible locations for the air filter. Ask
your service technician where your air filter is located and which type of filter to use.
Keep
doors and windows closed
Close all doors and windows to the outside. This will reduce the heating load
in winter and the cooling load in summer. Your system will operate more economically as a result.
Keep
vents and grilles unobstructed
Arrange your furniture and drapes so that all output vents and intake grilles
are free from obstruction. This will reduce the cooling and heating load on your system, providing more economical operation.
Use the AUTO setting
Generally, it is best to set your indoor fan
to AUTO. This costs less and provides better humidity control in the summer.
Keep the condenser coil clean
The
condenser coil (the unit outside your house) should be kept clean to ensure efficient operation. If the condenser coil becomes
restricted by dirt, lint, paper, grass clippings, leaves, or other debris, system efficiency will deteriorate. Use a garden
hose to keep the condenser coil clean.
Properly vent clothes dryers
Be
sure your clothes dryer is vented to the outside. Also ensure that your clothes dryer is vented away from your outdoor unit.
Keep heat away from the thermostat
Make sure no heat-generating appliances
are near your thermostat. These include lamps, TVs, stereo and computer equipment.