Summer is in full swing, and you probably have your air conditioner running at all hours. But many people wonder: What’s the perfect summer thermostat setting?
Read on to find out our leading tips on keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving money on energy bills.
Stay close to the outdoor temperature
When the temperatures soar outside, you may have the urge to crank the AC even higher. But you shouldn’t need a sweatshirt to be comfortable in your home.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that homeowners leave the AC at 78 degrees when you’re at home during the summer. The closer the indoor temperature is to the outdoor temperature means less energy is necessary to keep your home cool, which in turn leads to lower energy expenses.
When you go away
Everyone loves to take trips during the summer, whether it’s to visit family or to go to the beach. But at what temperature should you leave the thermostat when you’re out of town? While you might think that you can turn off the system entirely, it’s not a smart idea. This can affect pets and plants living in your home, along with causing other issues. But you can leave the temperature higher than you normally would—up to 83 degrees—which can save you money on your energy bill.
How to adjust the AC unit temperature
It’s important to remember that adjusting the temperature on the AC unit does not affect the temperature of the air being pumped into your home. Instead, it changes the duration of time that the AC unit runs, with cooler temperatures requiring more time.
So don’t set the temperature on the AC very low in the hopes that your home will cool down faster, as this will not work and could cause unnecessary strain on the unit. That said, it’s perfectly fine to make adjustments throughout the day based on your comfort.
Setting the thermostat at night
Most people prefer to keep the AC higher at night, as it creates more comfortable conditions for sleeping. Experts say that bedrooms should be between 60 and 67 degrees for sleeping.
However, that’s likely quite a jump from where the thermostat is set during the day. First, lower it by a couple of degrees from where you usually keep it during the day, and see how that works. You can also use ceiling fans, dehumidifiers and temperature-regulating pillows and mattresses to help stay cool at night.
Now it’s time to get that perfect summer thermostat setting. The next time you need help with air conditioning or heating, turn to the expert pros at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Our dedicated team has been providing residential and commercial services since 1999.
We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair and furnace cleaning. We also offer emergency services, meaning we’re available to help you 24 hours a day! Give us a call right now to find out how we can help you.
Many HVAC companies offer 24-hour emergency repair services for all models of HVAC systems. However, it’s important to note that not every HVAC problem should be considered an emergency.
Because it’s not always easy to distinguish between an emergency and a problem that can wait a few days to resolve, we put together this post with a few examples of actual HVAC emergencies.
Complete AC failure
While ceiling fans can help, a working air conditioner is a must-have to combat sweltering summers. Inside temperatures can even reach dangerous levels when the AC goes out in the middle of summer, especially for older folks, young children and pets. If your AC doesn’t turn on, be sure to call an emergency HVAC service right away.
No heat
When the heat stops working in the middle of the winter, it’s another time you’ll need to hire a professional to make an emergency call. Not having a working heater in the winter can also be dangerous for people and animals inside the house. While waiting for the HVAC repairman, bundle up with blankets, and utilize your fireplace if you have one.
Safety concerns
Gas or refrigerant leaks, sparks and smoke are a few signs that something is seriously wrong with your HVAC system, and the problem needs to be addressed right away. After calling HVAC companies to make an emergency repair, leave your house ASAP, and don’t return until the issue has been resolved. Hanging around waiting for the technician can be a serious health risk.
What are some signs of a failing system?
The good news is that HVAC systems typically don’t up and quit working out of nowhere—they often present a few signs that something’s amiss. These are a few indications that your system needs help:
Inadequate airflow: Before you stop getting any heat or cold air at all, your system may struggle with airflow. This could be as simple as a clogged vent or a more complex problem, like a broken fan. Be sure to call an HVAC service sooner rather than later before the system stops blowing out air altogether.
Screeching sound: All HVAC systems produce a little bit of noise while running, but yours should never have a loud screeching sound when it turns on. This is often an indication of a failing compressor. Shut off your system when you hear this noise or risk making the problem worse.
Burning smell: Any burning smell in your home is a bad sign, especially if it’s coming from the AC or heater. A burning smell often indicates a problem with the electrical system, but that’s not always the case. Your HVAC technician will be able to find the root of the problem and set it straight.
Call Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling in any situation
Whether you’re experiencing an HVAC emergency or you just need a seasonal tune-up, be sure to call our team at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. With a wide range of services and fair pricing, we’re one of the top HVAC companies in St. Louis.
Now that it’s officially summertime, many of us are starting to give more thought to our air conditioners. If your AC is on the older side or isn’t keeping you as cool as it used to, you should consider new air conditioner installation.
But don’t just buy the first AC model you can find—be sure to shop around and purchase an energy-efficient system. Keep reading to learn a few of the top reasons to invest in an energy-efficient air conditioner.
Saves energy
It goes without saying that the first reason to buy an energy-efficient AC is to save energy! Although the energy usage will vary depending on the model and size of your new unit, it’s sure to use much less than your current one. Be sure to shop for a unit with an Energy Star label to get the greatest savings.
Saves money
The less energy your AC uses, the more money you’ll save each month on your electric bill. Many factors affect the total savings, but you could cut your energy bill by as much as 25 percent. Your new system will pay for itself in no time.
Helps the environment
Assuming it runs on a refrigerant called Freon, your old air conditioner has a massive carbon footprint. Today’s energy-efficient systems use new refrigerants called R32 and R410, which are much better for the ecosystem than Freon. Talk to your installation professional to see which refrigerant your new system uses.
Improve indoor air quality
You might not realize it, but your indoor air quality can suffer if your home has an older air conditioner. New ACs have advanced air filters that are much better at trapping contaminants from entering the air, and they even help reduce your indoor humidity. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to change those filters every month or so.
Lasts longer
With new air conditioner installation, you can rest easy knowing that your system will last for 15 to 20 years before it needs to be replaced again. This is much longer than air conditioners used to last. Of course, you’ll need to hire a professional to inspect it and perform some routine maintenance each spring to prolong its lifespan.
Provides better temperature control
New energy-efficient air conditioners also make it easier to control the temperature in your home, and you can even set timers for your AC to turn on and off at certain points in the day. You’ll both be more comfortable and save more money with greater temperature control.
We can install your new AC system
It’s important to remember air conditioner installation should only be left to the pros. But don’t just call anyone to install your energy-efficient system—be sure to hire our pros at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. We provide fast and reliable service to ensure you stay cool all summer long.
Get in touch with us today to get an estimate for installation or to learn a little bit more about all of our services.
There are plenty of reasons why you should have an air purifier in your St. Louis, MO home. They provide the home with quality airflow and help eliminate harmful bacteria. Air purifiers are especially helpful to those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Everyone in your home is sure to see the benefits of a quality air purifier. Read on to learn about some advantages of having an air purifier, then contact a professional to have one installed in your home.
Keeps your family healthy
Air purifiers can help keep your family healthy, which is why many people have them installed. These devices help remove disease-causing germs from the air. If someone in your household suffers from allergies, it’s especially important to invest in an air purifier. Air purifiers help remove pollen, pet hair and most other allergens from the air. They are also beneficial to those suffering from asthma, emphysema or COPD.
Eliminates most unpleasant smells
There are many things that can cause unpleasant smells in your home, including pets, cooking and certain cleaning materials. Air purifiers help neutralize these smells, so you won’t feel embarrassed when having guests over. They can even help remove the smell of cigarette smoke.
Keeps outside pollutants from infecting your home
If you live in an area with high pollution, it’s a good idea to have an air purifier installed in your home. Air purifiers can help eliminate pollution caused by traffic and nearby buildings. You don’t want to breathe in this pollution whenever you’re at home, as it’s terrible for your health. You can easily increase the air quality in your home by investing in a good air purifier.
Promotes a good night’s sleep
If you’re having trouble sleeping due to allergies, consider investing in an air purifier. Constant sneezing and coughing will keep you and your partner up all night. A quality air purifier removes dirt, dust and other allergens. You won’t have to deal with a stuffy nose and congestion-caused snoring with a good air purifier.
Most air purifiers are quiet and energy-efficient, so you shouldn’t have a problem leaving yours on throughout the night.
Helps reduce the possibility of mold growth
Having mold in your home is never a good thing. It can cause major damage to both your house and your health. If mold is already present in your home, it’s best to have it removed as soon as possible. An air purifier will help prevent the mold from spreading while you’re waiting to have it removed. It does so by removing mold spores from the air, thus preventing them from coming to rest on other surfaces.
Some air purifiers have specific features to help remove mold from the air. If mold is one of your major concerns, it’s best to ask an expert which air purifier they recommend.
Now that you know why you should have an air purifier in your St. Louis, MO home, it’s time to have the right one installed. Contact Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling for information on air purifiers. We also provide quality HVAC repairs and maintenance at fair prices.
Have you noticed several issues with your air conditioner? Is it no longer blowing cool air? Are there strange sounds coming from the vents? Has your energy bill gone up? While there’s often a simple solution to most of these issues, they could also signal the need for a new AC unit. This is especially true if your AC unit requires expensive repairs.
There are plenty of signs it’s time to upgrade the AC unit in your St. Louis, MO home. Read on to learn about some of these signs, and contact a local HVAC technician when you’re ready to upgrade!
Your AC unit isn’t working like it used to
Warm air coming from your AC unit and poor airflow could mean it’s time to replace your air filter. If replacing your air filter doesn’t work, however, it’s probably time to upgrade your AC unit. It’s also a good idea to have your ducts checked for any blockages before buying a new air conditioner.
Your AC unit is getting up there in age
As your AC unit gets older, the chance of it breaking increases. On average, AC units last around 15 years. Before your AC unit breaks down completely due to old age, you’ll want to consider investing in a replacement. Older units also require more frequent repairs, the cost of which can quickly add up.
Weird smells or sounds
Certain noises and smells coming from your AC unit could signal the need for a repair or upgrade. A burning smell, for example, often means your AC unit is on the brink of a breakdown. Strange smells could also mean mold has started to grow within your air conditioner or your ductwork. Let your HVAC professional determine whether the smells coming from your AC unit are cause for concern.
Sounds like grinding and scraping often mean important parts of your AC unit aren’t working. If your unit needs repairs, be sure to have them taken care of as soon as possible. The longer you put off repairs, the higher the risk of your AC unit breaking down.
Finding a new AC unit
Other signs it is time to upgrade the AC unit in your St. Louis, MO home include higher energy bills and the need for frequent repairs. There are plenty of options these days when it comes to AC units. Determining the right one for your home all depends on your specific needs and wants. Most people prefer upgrading to an energy-efficient AC unit, as these often help save plenty of money on energy bills.
To determine whether you truly need a new AC unit, it’s best to speak with a good HVAC company in your area. It’s especially important to speak with an expert before the summer months arrive. You don’t want your AC unit to stop working on a hot day, leaving you without cool air for an indefinite period of time.
Contact the experts at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling if you’re looking for a new AC unit or need repairs to your existing one. We’re pleased to provide quick and efficient HVAC services at fair prices.
