Spring has sprung, summer is right around the corner and with that comes vacation season. So, it’s time to get organized where spring cleaning and maintenance are concerned. This is especially important when it comes to your home’s cooling and heating system. You might also be in the market for an upgrade, including a wifi thermostat. Before we get to how to prep your home for that anticipated summer vacation, here are reasons to put your home’s air conditioning system first on your spring cleaning list:
Hidden allergens
What you can’t see can most definitely hurt you. Mold, dust and many other airborne particles and contaminants hide out and settle on your system’s coils and accumulate in the air ducts.
Hidden costs
Accumulated dirt – both inside your system and out – can add up to as much as 30% of a cooling bill. Blockages and leaks in ductwork can add another 20% or more to your energy usage. Low refrigerant may result in up to a 20% increase in energy bills.
Preparation
It may seem like summer’s heat is a ways off, but it won’t be long before your cooling system is working hard to provide round-the-clock comfort. Maintaining your system and addressing any repair issues before crisis time is key.
Once your spring cleaning list has been completed, you can focus on preparing your home for an extended absence: a family vacation or relocating to a second home in another part of the country for the season. Your to-do list will probably be lengthy and include such elementary tasks as cleaning out the refrigerator, making arrangements for care of pets and plants and letting neighbors and local police and other first responders know you are leaving. Here are other important tasks:
- Unplug televisions, microwaves and other small appliances
- Check smoke detectors and security systems and make sure they are in good working condition
- Shut off water at the main valve and arrange for friends or neighbors to turn on water, run faucets and flush toilets each month
- There’s no sense keeping the house cool when you are away for any length of time. Try turning up the thermostat to 80-85 degrees. Each degree you increase the setting on your thermostat can save 2% on your cooling costs. Installing a WiFi thermostat that can be controlled remotely may also be a wise investment
As always, keeping your system maintained and running efficiently with regular tune-ups is also a must. Call Dixie today to schedule service, maintenance or to learn more about WiFi thermostat installation.
