Air Conditioning Tips

We depend on our air conditioning systems to keep our homes cool and comfortable during those warm summer months.  There are a lot of factors that can help an air conditioning system run efficiently; however, there are also factors that can prevent it from running at its best.  O'Brien would love to share some of our helpful air conditioning tips to ensure you are getting the most out of your air conditioning system.

Have You Changed Your Filters?

A simple, yet essential tip to ensure your AC system will run smoothly during the warm summer months is to make sure you are changing your filters regularly.  A dirty filter will restrict the airflow and can not only cause high energy bills but also add a lot of wear to your system.  Not sure when to change your filters? Click here to view our article on when it's best to change your filter.

What Is Your Thermostat Set To?

This air conditioning tip is an easy way to save a few extra dollars and help prevent your system from being overworked.  By making a minimal temperature change to your thermostat, it can greatly lengthen the lifespan of your system.  If your thermostat is set to 72⁰, try to set it to 73⁰ or even 74⁰.  By increasing the temperature just a few degrees, you’ll be able to help lower the energy your system is using. This can give your AC system a much-needed break.

If you have a programmable thermostat, you can save even more.  A programmable thermostat lets you set a schedule; this way, you can increase the temperature while you're away and still program your thermostat so that you come home to a refreshing, cool home. If you’re interested in a new thermostat, you can contact our office today for more information.

Is It Time to Replace an Older System?

This might not be the cheapest of the air conditioning tips, but it is still one to keep in mind.  Most air conditioning systems have an average lifespan of 10-15 years.  So if your system is getting close to that age or has already passed it, it may be a good time to start thinking about the benefits of replacing your old AC system.

What are some of the benefits of installing a new AC system?

• New systems are more efficient.
• They can help lower utility bills.
• A new system can keep your home more comfortable.
• New systems are less likely to need repairs.
• If they do need any service, most systems come with a warranty.

If you think it’s time to replace your older cooling system, be sure to have a complimentary in-home evaluation from O’Brien Service Company.

Other Ways to Cool Your Home

Besides blasting your air conditioner, there are other ways to help keep your home cool.  You can give your air conditioner a break by trying a few of these air conditioning tips to drop the temperature in your home.  First, close the blinds to stop the heat from the sunlight from entering your home.  If you have ceiling fans, run these while you’re in the room; if you leave the room, you can turn them off.  You can keep more cool air inside by ensuring you have properly sealed and insulated windows and doors in your home.  And if you can, try and minimize the use of household products that create heat, such as your oven, dryer, or dishwasher.

Annual Air Conditioning Maintenance

All of these air conditioning tips will help your cooling system; however, annual maintenance is most important to your system's function.  Experts say that in order for your system to run at its top efficiency, your system must be inspected at least once a year.  This can help catch minor issues before they become major repairs.  For example, without an annual cleaning, dust and debris will build up in your system, causing extra wear.  To ensure your system is running at its top efficiency and to extend its lifespan, be sure to schedule your annual maintenance.  For more information on air conditioning maintenance with O'Brien Service Company, you can click on the tab dedicated to it.

"My air conditioning went out on a very hot day. I called O'brien and they were able to come out within a few hours. Josh responded and was friendly, thorough and professional. He took his time to ensure that everything was fixed and working properly. I felt like he went the extra mile to help. I would definitely recommend this company." -Kristy W. (Leland, NC 28451)