Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Living Well

GET THE MOST FROM YOUR

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Air conditioning systems are a lot like automobiles: they operate more efficiently and last longer when they get scheduled care and attention and are operated properly.

Here are five of the most effective ways to increase the life of your system.

• Clean or replace the filter at least once a month. When a central air conditioner circulates the air in your home, dust and dirt particles collect on the filter located in the indoor unit or ducts. Excessive buildup on the filter forces the system to run longer to maintain your set temperature. This can make utility bills rise.
• Keep debris clear of the outdoor unit. Efficient operation of your central air conditioner requires a free flow of air over the coils in the outdoor unit. Anything that blocks this flow forces the unit to work harder. Keeping it clear of leaves, dirt, newspapers and other debris helps it work at peak efficiency and holds down operating costs.
• Service the system on a regular basis. Preventive maintenance is the least expensive kind. Keeping your system in top shape through regular checkups is the best way to insure that it will keep working for you. The best time to have your system checked is in early spring, before the cooling season starts.
• Leave your thermostat at one setting. If you want the optimum balance between comfort and cost, keep the temperature settings at 78 degrees Fahrenheit for cooling. If you have a programmable thermostat, keep adjustments to a minimum once you've set it. Adjust it only when a new program is needed. If you're going to be away for a few days, don't let the system run unnecessarily. Raise the thermostat to 85 degrees and simply reset it when you return.
• Operate appliances during the cooler parts of the day. Household appliances such as washers, dryers, ovens and ranges can generate heat and humidity inside the house. Using these appliances during the hottest times of the day, when your air conditioning system is working hardest, just adds to the burden. By scheduling washing, drying, baking and cooking for mornings or evenings when it is cooler, you can remove this extra burden from your system and help keep operating costs down.