Air Conditioning & Heating Tips

With these HVAC tips, you can better control your air conditioning and heating comfort and costs. Not the do-it-yourself type? When in doubt, call the pros at Schwantes Heating & Air Conditioning.

Schedule Seasonal Tune-Ups

Scheduling seasonal tune-ups for your HVAC system is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Before the start of each cooling and heating season, investing in AC maintenance and a tune-up can yield numerous benefits.

  • Improved Efficiency: Cleaned and calibrated components ensure optimal airflow and energy efficiency.
  • Enhanced Safety: Identifies and addresses potential safety hazards like gas leaks or electrical issues.
  • Extended Lifespan: Prevents premature wear and tear, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns.
  • Improved Comfort: Adjustments optimize heating and cooling performance for consistent comfort.
  • Cost Savings: Prevents major repairs and emergency service calls, saving money in the long run.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your system is operating efficiently and safely provides reassurance.

Call us to schedule a tune-up or learn about our annual maintenance agreements

Don’t Target Empty Rooms

If your vents or units are used in every room in your home, you’re cooling or heating a lot of real estate. Close vents in unoccupied rooms shut closet doors, and keep window units off when you’re away from home.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

Are you still using that old thermostat? Consider purchasing a new programmable model. It will allow you to better control your energy use and maximize your comfort according to the weather and your schedule. A programmable stat is a valuable resource for people who are away from home for set periods during the week.

Replace Air Filters

Now is the perfect time to get in the habit of changing your A/C filter on a monthly basis. A filter that’s clogged with hair, pet dander, mold, pollen, dust, or pollutants and particles strains your cooling system and taints the air your family breathes. Change it regularly to enjoy fresh, clean air.

Kick Up An Indoor Breeze

Installing energy-efficient ceiling fans to circulate the air can keep your home more comfortable and reduce A/C costs this summer.

The average cost to run a fan is only about $7 a month, and it can make a big difference in creating a breeze that feels cool on the skin. We can help with fan selection or installation.

Invest In An Energy Smart System

Your cooling and heating system ensures comfortable year-round temperatures inside your home. However, over time, systems can begin to lose efficiency and break down more frequently.

If your system is more than 10 years old, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends you have it inspected by a qualified air conditioning professional.

Schwantes Heating & Air Conditioning can assess your current equipment’s overall condition and efficiency and determine whether a new ENERGY STAR-rated system can reduce utility bills and produce a higher degree of comfort.

Consider Zoning Systems

Zoning systems divide the home into distinct areas to maintain consistent temperatures. They minimize energy wastage by heating or cooling only active zones, allowing occupants to set personalized temperature preferences without compromising efficiency. This approach promotes even distribution of heating and cooling, extending HVAC equipment lifespan and reducing maintenance needs.

Seal Air Leaks

Addressing air leaks, commonly found around windows, doors, ductwork, and vents, is essential for optimizing HVAC systems’ efficiency. These leaks permit conditioned air to escape and exterior air to infiltrate. By sealing these openings effectively, the HVAC system operates more efficiently, as conditioned air remains contained within the living space while outside air infiltration is minimized. This enhanced efficiency translates to reduced heating and cooling costs and a diminished environmental footprint over time.

Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is integral to maintaining thermal comfort and optimizing HVAC system performance. Insulating key areas such as the attic, walls, floors, and crawl spaces serves to mitigate heat transfer and enhance energy efficiency year-round.

Various insulation materials, including fiberglass, cellulose, spray foam, and rigid foam, offer options tailored to the specific needs of the home. With adequate insulation, homeowners can expect reduced temperature fluctuations and improved overall comfort levels throughout their living environment.

Give us a call at 651-730-1123 to find out more about our Air Conditioning & Heating Tips!