A/C & Heating Tips

right-imgTake control of your cooling and heating comfort and costs. Sonny’s Mechanical has some ideas to help you get more for less.

Keep Your Filter Clean & Your Unit Clear
Be sure to clean or change your air filter about once a month, and always use the proper size for your equipment. It is also important to keep your outside unit clear of debris to avoid blocking the airflow.

Upgrade Your Insulation
It may be necessary to upgrade insulation to reduce cooling and heating costs and make your home more comfortable.

Check Your Thermostat
Cooling your home at 78º or warmer with the fan switch on “auto” can provide the best balance between comfort and savings. For extra savings, raise the thermostat to 82º when you’re not home.

Make Use of Ceiling Fans
Keep your home comfortable and reduce your A/C costs by installing energy-efficient ceiling fans to circulate the air. The average cost to run a fan is only $7 a month!

Maintain Airflow
Keep interior doors and vents open to help circulate the air.

Seal Cracks in Windows and Doors
Sealing small cracks and crevices (less than ¼ inch wide) between a window or door frame and the molding can save 10% or more on your heating bills and reduce your carbon emissions by hundreds of pounds per year.

Install a Door Sweep
A simple plastic, self-adhesive door sweep blocks cold air from entering the home via the space between the door and the threshold and improves heating and cooling efficiency.

Consider Buying a Newer, More Efficient Heating and A/C Unit
If your system is over 10 years old, it may be time to purchase a new unit. For maximum operating efficiency and energy savings, ask your Sonny’s Mechanical technician about a system well suited to your situation.

Pay Attention to Heating and Cooling System Performance Issues
Keeping your heating and cooling systems in good working condition can head off costly problems. By calling for service as soon as you notice something’s not right, you can prevent the expense and inconvenience of a big repair job. You’ll also avoid the higher utility bills that typically accompany a poorly functioning system. You should have your heating and cooling systems checked when you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Decreased air flow from the registers
  • Strange noises coming from the system
  • Moldy odors coming from the ductwork when the system is running
  • The air conditioner cycles on and off more frequently than it used to
  • The breaker for the air conditioner in the electrical panel keeps tripping (or the fuse keeps blowing)
  • Ice appears on your air conditioner or piping, either inside or outside the house
  • Your outdoor fan in the air conditioner won’t come on

If you notice any of the above symptoms, call Sonny’s Mechanical today to have your cooling and heating systems checked and serviced.