It’s A Dry Heat

We’ve heard it a thousand times here in the valley of the sun, “at least it’s a dry heat.” Though the winter months here in the valley may not be a debate, the summer months are another thing all together! So we go from our air conditioned homes, to our air conditioned offices/schools, back to our air conditioned car, and return to our air conditioned homes once again; and that’s how we survive! But are you and your household members continually at odds over what the temperature of the thermostat in your house should be set at? One person is always too hot, another too cold, of course someone else thinks it’s just right. ;)

Either way, when it gets hot outside, the AC will be turned on! So before the heat actually arrives, it is time to get ready for it. By performing certain tasks before the season is officially upon us, you can avoid many foreseeable issues. A neglected AC unit can cost up to 50% more to run and can lead to many more issues than one that has been properly cared for. If you feel comfortable doing some home maintenance steps yourself, there are some helpful hints we found at the ConsumerEnergy Center website. http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/tips/summerize.html

On the EnergyStar website, there are additional tips they share for cooling down your home or business to get ready for summer. Energy Star is “a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy program to help us all save money and protect our environment through energy efficient products and practices.” http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/promotions/cool_change/downloads/CYW_Topfiveways.pdf

If you can’t figure out the problem, call a professional in like Wolff Mechanical. A professional will perform a complete inspection, safety tests, tune-up, cleaning, and perform repairs. Though we don’t guarantee it will stop any squabbles over what the thermostat should be set at, preparing beforehand will keep you from having to make an “emergency” call when temps are soaring and repair people are busy! Your comfort is our top priority, so we pride ourselves on same day service. Call us today at (602) 814-0004.

(Image source: http://www.brooklynartproject.com/photo/help-im-melting)

Keeping Your Air Conditioner Running Smoothly

With summer here, air conditioners are used more than ever. In Arizona, the summers are unforgiving, and the temperatures can become dangerous. An air conditioner tune up in Scottsdale may be ideal before it becomes any hotter. No one wants to have to buy a new unit, and keeping good care of your air conditioner will prevent having to overhaul and buy a new one, or cause your current unit to have to work harder than it does. These few tips can help you save some money, as well as keep your air conditioner blowing that refreshing cool air on you all day.

Insulating your duct work will help save money. Air ducts usually run through the attic where it is warmer and this alone is worth investing in an extra wrap of insulation around the duct. Plastic breaks down over time, so get the wrap that is backed by foil instead. Make sure to clean your outside unit regularly. Dirt and dust and other debris can get caught in there and this will cause your unit to work harder than needed. Make sure none of the vents are blocked and they are cleared out. Wash off the unit once a year by turning it off, and using a garden hose. Between the fins, not against them as this can bend them. Finally, make sure that your outside unit is secure. People may not want the entire unit, but the copper inside is valuable. Make sure it is visible to the eye from the inside and hide it with fences or walls. 

3 Tips to Help the Efficiency of Your AC Unit This Summer

1.      Insulate the “cool line” – This runs from the condenser to the compressor – make sure it’s insulated with snap – on urethane or other high R-value insulation – ask the guys at your local hardware or refrigeration store.

2.      Temperature difference check – This is critically important! Use two thermometers at the same time to measure the warm return air entering the evaporator coil and the coil discharge air entering the house. The difference between the two measurements should be at least 12F to 16F or greater. If it shows a lower temperature difference,, you should have the refrigerant checked by an air conditioning tune up in Scottsdale serviceman. It could be that the system needs to be recharged with coolant or the compressor is not working efficiently.

3.      Replace or clean the filter at least once a month – This is so important. This is what catches dust, pollens, and other allergens, preventing them from entering your house. And if it’s chocked with dust and pet hair, it slows down the cold airflow, making the system run harder and longer – and cost you more money.

Source Article - AFMHeatCool

For a unit that only heats, be sure you have it checked at least once a year,
preferably before the heating months begin.

Solar Air Conditioning – What are the Advantages
http://ow.ly/bqWkv

Quick tip: Clean the dirt, leaves and debris off of any outdoor units you have to
keep them up and running.

Are you sick & tired of your energy bills being so high? Consider a solar AC
unit. They can reduce your AC electric costs by up to 60%