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Warning: date(): It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. You are *required* to use the date.timezone setting or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected the timezone 'UTC' for now, but please set date.timezone to select your timezone. in /home/modernai/public_html/libraries/joomla/utilities/date.php on line 198
AC Tips
Air conditioning System
- Have it serviced once per year (AC Annual Service Checkup)
- Make sure there is a clean filter in the unit at all times
- Own the most energy efficient equipment you can afford
- Have freon leaks repaired as soon as possible
- Change filters more frequently when remodeling or refinishing wood floors
- Change filters more frequently if your filter gets clogged with pet hair
- If you have called for service, please keep the air conditioner turned off to avoid freezing up or overheating
- Fan should be in “auto” position
Before calling for service
- Check batteries in digital thermostat, replace when needed
- Check breakers in electrical panel box to make sure they are all on—they can be tripped by a power surge, especially during a storm (if breakers trip repeatedly, call for service)
- Make sure humidistat is set correctly (if you have one)
- Make sure there is a clean filter in the air conditioner
- Make sure t-stat is set to “auto” rather than “on” position
- Make sure Progress Energy does not have it turned off (if you subscribe to their energy management program which offers a monthly credit toward your bill)
Have your coils cleaned
- A dirty coil restricts airflow, so cleaning provides more efficient airflow.
- Less chance of water leaks which may cause damage to your home
- Less demand on the compressor—if coil is impacted, it can cause compressor failure (main component of the condenser and very expensive to replace)
- A dirty coil makes the unit less efficient, resulting in higher power bills.
- If you have pets, coils can become clogged with hair.
- If remodeling or refinishing floors, dirt and debris will settle in your air conditioning filter and clog it, restricting airflow and causing possible damage to your equipment. Please call to have your coils checked and/or cleaned after remodel.
Filters
- Change disposable filters at least once a month
- Wash permanent filters once per month
- Check other filters 3 to 4 times per year
- Purchase a whole house filter
Heat
- Heat smells like something is burning—usually dust and dirt burning off coils if it is the first time you have turned heat on for the year (may even set off smoke alarm)
- I have a heat pump and smoke is coming from my outside unit—this is actually “steam” which is created when unit goes into defrost cycle
- In extremely cold weather that lasts for several days or weeks, a heat pump may not keep up with the demand for heat that you expect. They do not produce intense heat like an oil or gas furnace up north might.
- If you have a gas furnace and the heat won’t come on, make sure the pilot light is lit. The “safety switch” is turned on (looks like a standard light switch on the wall)
