A few simple steps can add up to a load of savings!!

General Tips

• Clean or replace your filter monthy.
• Keep the outdoor unit clean from debris such as grass, leaves, dirt, dryer vents and even dog hair.
• In the Summer pull drapes or shades over sun-facing windows. In the Winter allow the sun to enter your home.
• Keep all grilles and registers open and clear of obstructions such as drapes or furniture.
• Keep lamps, tv's and other heat sources away from your thermostat.
• Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher in the summer and 70 degrees in the winter. Each degree setting below 78 degrees in the summer or higher than 70 degrees in the winter will increase your energy consumption.
• Use bath and kitchen fans sparingly when the air conditioner is operating.
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Be sure clothes dryers are vented to the outside and away from your outdoor unit.
• Check attic insulation.
• Seal cracks around window's and doors to prevent air leakage.
• Make sure you have annual maintenance work performed on your system.

Central A/C Energy Savers

• Inspect and clean both the indoor and outdoor coils. Dirt build-up on the indoor coil is the single most common cause of poor efficiency. The outdoor coil must also be checked periodically for dirt build-up and cleaned if necessary.
• Check the refrigerant charge. The circulating fluid in your air conditioner is a special refrigerant gas that is put in when the system is installed. If the system is overcharged or undercharged with refrigerant, it will not work properly. You will need a service contractor to check the fluid and adjust it properly.
• Reduce the cooling load by using cost-effective conservative measures. For example, effectively shade east and west windows. When possible, delay heat-generating activities, such as dishwashing, until the evening on hot days.
• Try not to use a dehumidifier at the same time your air conditioner is operating. The dehumidifier will increase the cooling load and force the air conditioner to work harder.

Heat Pump Energy Savers

• Outdoor units should be protected from high winds, which can cause defrosting problems. You can strategically place a bush or fence upwind of the coils to block the unit from high winds.
• Proper operation of your heat pump will also save energy. Do not set back the heat pump's thermostat if it causes the back-up heating to come on. Backup heating systems are usually more expensive to operate. Continuous indoor fan operation can degrade heat pump performance unless a high-efficiency, variable-speed fan motor is used. Operate the system on the "auto" fan setting on the thermostat.
• And like all heating and cooling systems, proper maintenance is key to efficient operation. Clean or change filters once a month or as needed, and maintain the system according to manufacturer's instructions. Dirty filters, coils and fans reduce airflow through the system. Reduced airflow decreases system performance and can damage your system's compressor. Clean and lubricate the fan motor annually to ensure the required airflow is provided for proper operation. The fan speed should be checked at the same time. Incorrect pulley settings, loose fan belts, or incorrect motor speeds can all contribute to poor performance.