Summer is a fun season, often filled with travel, family gatherings and outdoor activity.  But it can put more strain than you might expect on your plumbing system and pocketbook – and not only because of the heat.  Summer storms and lengthy vacations can take a toll, as well.

But don’t worry!  One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Midland Park has complied some “must know” tips and tricks to get you through some of the hottest and stormiest days, as well as ease your mind while on vacation.

Be smart about HVAC use:

  • Most of the electricity in your home is used by the heating and A/C system.  Make sure your heating and cooling systems are running efficiently, and don’t forget to check your central systems twice a year to keep it running efficiently.[1]
  • Clean air filters every month during cooling season. Normal dust build-up can reduce air flow by one percent per week,[2] costing consumers more money.
  • Consider adding insulation around any conditioning ducts that are located in unconditioned spaces such as attics, crawl spaces, and garages, and hire a one of our technicians to repair any holes or separated joints in the ducts.[3]  This will help keep cooling costs down this summer.

Protect yourself during a storm:

  • If your HVAC system gets flooded, immediately turn off the electrical supply and let the system dry out to reduce the risk of short-circuiting (this could take between one and four days).  If all the water is removed, but the system and controls are not completely dry after a week, it might need to be replaced.[4]
  • Following a substantial storm, houses – particularly lower levels and HVAC systems – can become contaminated with dirt, debris, bacteria and fungus.[5]  In order to maintain healthy air quality indoors, ensure that the system is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
  • Lightning can cause damage to air conditioning units and other appliances, ranging from blown fuses and burnt capacitors to fried compressors and burnt wires.  Turning off the A/C entirely during a storm could help prevent damage from a power surge.[6]

Prepare your home for vacation:

  • For every degree a thermostat is raised during the summer, a homeowner will save two to three  percent on his or her electricity bill,[7] so if you’re leaving for an extended period of time, turn your thermostats up before you leave.
  • A programmable thermostat can save residents about $180 annually.[8]  Not to mention, it can be set to change the temperature on the day the home owner arrives back home, so the family will come home to a comfortable household.
  • Close the curtains and blinds to keep cooler air inside.  This also helps keep anyone from looking in and seeing that nobody’s home.

Call One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Midland Park today to schedule any repairs or a routine maintenance check to ensure your HVAC system can tackle all of summer’s challenges, leaving you peace of mind to enjoy the season.