Beat the Summer Heat   
How to lower utility bills, save energy, increase efficiency, and keep comfortable when running your AC 

• Replace or wash your return air filter at least every 6 months and avoid using pleated filters. Most HVAC systems are not designed for the high-pressure losses across a 1” pleated filter, resulting in reduced air flow throughout your home and reducing the efficiency of your AC system.
• Remove any debris and wash the outdoor unit’s finned surfaces.
• If your outdoor unit’s finned surfaces are bent, use a “Fin Comb” to straighten them, bent or smashed fins greatly reduce the efficiency of your outdoor unit.
• Make sure the outdoor unit is clear and free of debris, trim back any leaves or shrubs that may be covering the unit.
• Clean the indoor finned surface, an ultraviolet coil sterilizer will perform this task year round.
• Wash the indoor condensate drain pan and drain line, verify the drain line is free of debris.
• Energy Upgrade California recommends keeping your thermostat at 78 degrees. Each degree lower than 78 degrees increases energy consumption by about 8%! If you are comfortable with a warmer indoor temperature, you can save about $8 a month for each degree your thermostat is above 78.
• Keep your AC on during the day, just turn the temperature up 5 degrees. The AC system has to work harder (less efficiently) each time it starts up to get to your desired room temperature. Your energy costs will be lower, and comfort level higher, by leaving the AC system on during the day and adjusting the temperature.
• Switch your fan setting to “ON”, constant circulation of air will feel more comfortable, reduce “dead air zones” and allows your system to function more efficiently.
• Keep the heat outside, consider cooking dinner outside tonight.
• Using your ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat setting about 4 degrees without impacting your comfort, or consider installing one.
• Have your AC serviced annually – routine maintenance helps to keep your equipment running safely and efficiently.
• If your AC is older than 15 years – have it replaced. Most AC units have a 10-15 year lifespan. If you are running an older model, it is highly unlikely to run efficiently. You may qualify for a tax credit or rebate for replacing your AC.
• For window air conditioners, inspect the seal around the unit to keep cool air from escaping.