Residential/Light Commercial
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Helpful Tips
2. Upgrade to a more efficient thermostat. Older thermostats, especially the mercury operated will wear out over time. A thermostat that is not secured and/or leveled properly can lead to longer run times of the system. Upgrading to a digital programmable thermostat can save $ by decreasing run time. A programmable t-stat has proven to pay for itself in just months. Have our specialists install and program yours to keep you comfortable year round.
3. Change or upgrade the filtration system. We offer a full line of filtration systems including five inch MERV 16 filters and cabinets. MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) is a scale designed by American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to rate the effectiveness of air filters. Better filtration systems allows for improved health, reduced cost and energy efficiency in heating, ventilation and A/C.
4. Change or clean filters as needed (generally, every 30 days). To help remind yourself to clean/change your air filter, we suggest setting a date with the same as a mortgage, utility, phone, etc payment. Some thermostats can be programmed and a reminder alert will appear on the screen.
5. Have an ultra violet light installed to reduce bacteria. The U.S. government now specifies that UV light should be used in air handling units to improve indoor air quality in government buildings. No other air purification is more effective at neutralizing micro-organisms than ultraviolet light radiation. As micro-organisms pass by the UV rays of the lamp, this bond breakage translates into cellular of genetic damage for germs, viruses, bacteria, fungi (like molds) etc. This results in the destruction of the micro-organisms. UV lamps can be installed in as little as 45 minutes. Call today for an estimate.
6. Keep the outdoor unit free and clear of debris for proper airflow, and when mowing, do not blow grass towards the coil. The outside unit houses the compressor (the main motor that pumps the freon to produce hot or cold air inside). If the outer coils become clogged, this will ultimately cause higher temps on the compressor. Higher temps= higher electric bills! Be careful not to bend the aluminum fins together if you try to clean them yourself. This will also result in air restriction. And NEVER use a pressure washer on it.
7. Maintain recommended distances between equipment and obstructions (refer to the installation guide or contact a professional). Never build a deck over or a privacy fence around a heat pump/air conditioner without maintaining proper ventilation distances. Always leave an access to the air handler/furnace inside to allow for servicing.
8. DO NOT close or restrict airflow of the supply or the return vents. Homeowners place furniture over and/or in front of air vents. They also close vents in the basement. This is never a good idea, for airflow is crucial in a heating/cooling system.
9. Periodically, oil-fired heating systems need adjustment to keep them running in the safest, most efficient and least costly manner. During the heating season, furnaces and boilers can accumulate a build-up of dirt. In addition, the various moving parts wear. Dirt and wear can lead to a loss of system efficiency, system failures, and health and safety problems. Annual inspections and maintenance are required to keep an oil-fired heating system operating efficiently and safely. Click here for tips on how to maintain your oil furnace.
