In our sunny Florida cities, having a reliable, energy-efficient air conditioning and heating system like those from Payne Air Conditioning & Heating is a must. Whether you’re in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lakeland, Mulberry, Plant City, or Auburndale, you can use these practical, DIY tips to keep your home comfortable all year round.
1. Clean Your Air Conditioner: Removing dust and debris from your outdoor unit allows your A/C to operate more efficiently. Off power at the circuit, then use your garden hose to gently wash away detritus from the metal fins. [Here’s how to do it properly.](http://www.example.com)
2. Keep A/C Vents Open and Clean: Contrary to popular belief, closing vents in unused rooms doesn’t save energy. Instead, it makes your air conditioner work harder. Ensure all vents are open and the area around them is free of furniture, rugs or drapes. A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment will suffice for cleaning.
3. Service Your A/C Regularly: Annual professional air conditioner service extends the life and efficiency of your unit. Ideally, schedule your maintenance in spring, before the onset of summer.
4. Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans circulate cool air, lowering the burden on your air conditioner. Ensure your fans are set to run counter-clockwise in summer for an effective breeze.
5. Create A Barrier: Covering your windows with shades, blinds or curtains can reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, thereby reducing your A/C’s workload.
6. Timely AC Repair: If your A/C is not cooling effectively, seek professional help promptly. Delays may lead to major problems that require more expensive repairs or replacement.
7. Install a Programmable Thermostat: With this device, you can customize your home’s temperature to match your schedule, helping you save on your heating and cooling costs.
8. Invest in Heat Pump Installation: A heat pump provides both heating and cooling functions, making it a great choice for Florida homes. They move heat instead of generating it, which is why they’re more energy-efficient than furnaces and A/C units.
9. Customize the Ductwork: Insufficient or leaky ductwork can cause lots of energy wastage by allowing hot and cold air to escape. Hire professionals to customize the ductwork for both your heating and cooling needs.
10. Heating Services: An annual professional heating service ensures the longevity of your heating system. Try to get this done in autumn, before the winter chill sets in.
Final Thoughts:
Efficient usage of your air conditioning and heating system not only saves you money but also contributes to a healthier and more sustainable environment. Regular maintenance, simple DIY steps, and professional heating and AC services can significantly lower your energy bills and avoid unforeseen breakdowns. If you’re in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lakeland, Mulberry, Plant City, Auburndale, or nearby, turn to the trusted expertise of Payne for all your A/C and heating needs.