TIPS TO KEEP YOUR AIR CONDITIONER RUNNING EFFICIENTLY
Hey all, Nick here. It’s hot…too hot. This means our A/C units will be working overtime and so will those HVAC contractors we rely on. Family 1st Living is no A/C expert, but we do regularly speak with a few that specialize in Manufactured Housing. We’ve compiled some key tips to keeping you cool through the extreme temperatures that Kansas weather can bring.
1. Filters | keep filters clean both inside and out
When the exterior fans are covered in grass clippings, cottonwood fluffs, and dirt they cannot get the airflow needed to work properly. We suggest hosing down the exterior unit after each mow. To do so, turn the unit off at the thermostat and at the disconnect breaker next to the outside unit, then spray from the inside to the outside. Turn back on at both places. Indoor filters should also be replaced every 30-90 days. We’ve always been told to use the most inexpensive options, as they tend to allow for the most airflow.
2. thermostat | set at 72 or above
Our experts recommend keeping your thermostat at 72 degrees or higher during extremely high temperature days. This is especially important if you have an older home without upgrades to insulation, doors, and windows. You may even want to set the thermostat at 74-75 to allow the unit a break. I personally had mine set at 75 to allow it to cycle off even after just having it serviced. I hate seeing anyone pay high utility bills or for a service call, only for the technician to tell you the unit is working properly. If the thermostat is in the hallway with no vents nearby, it is harder for the cool air to reach it, causing your unit to run longer and more frequently. We recommend closing vents in unused rooms to help push the cool air where it’s needed most.
3. miscellaneous tips
Check all windows to be sure they’re secure. Lower all blinds and close them. Hang blackout curtains. Check all exterior doors to be sure they close completely. Close vents in unused rooms and partially close vents with the best air flow.
4. freeze up | how to avoid it and what to do if it happens to you
DO NOT turn the thermostat to an even lower temperature, thinking that will help the home cool off faster. This could cause a freeze up. If your unit freezes up, a technician can’t work on it until you’ve turned it off and allowed it to thaw completely. If your thermostat is set to 74-76, you’ve done all of the things listed above, and you’re still experiencing temperatures 78+, then it’s time to call a technician.
Check your unit to see if it’s frozen: Turn your thermostat off and look for ice around the set line near the exterior unit or around your A-coil in the furnace area. If you do find that either unit has frozen, prepare it for the technician by turning the unit off or raising the thermostat to 80+ and turn the fan to continuous instead of auto. This will allow warm air to blow on those areas and melt the ice faster.
5. phone a friend | check out the experts we recommend
We have compiled a great list of CONTRACTORS on our website, who specialize in manufactured housing, for your various needs. We recommend contacting Royal Supply. You can also try Jim’s Refrigeration if your home is in Butler County, or Specialized Services if your home is in Sedgwick County. Please be patient with them, as they are likely inundated with calls.
We are wishing you a *cool* and refreshing summer season!