ENERGY TIPS

* Consider this - when you replace a 15 year old A/C system, you can expect an additional energy cost reduction of up to 20%.

* Reduce radiant heat gain from the sun by keeping blinds, drapes and curtains closed during ​​
the day.

* A central A/C system will dehumidify your home. During hot weather, keep your home closed and
avoid open windows. An A/C system, does not cool but removes heat & humidity.


Temco's Timely Tips

* Check your filter every 4-6 weeks, especially during the cooling season. Replace as necessary.

* Frequently check the exposed secondary condensate drain outlet.

* Keep your outdoor condenser coil clear of any debris and natural obstructions. Rinse off with a
garden hose.

* Cover the outside of the outdoor condensing until during the off-season when A/C is not operating. However, always remember to remove the cover when turning the A/C back on for the new cooling season.



Consumer Reports Surveys Central Air Conditioners

If you're trying to keep cool but keep your energy bills down at the same time, replacing an aging central air conditioning system may help. Consumer Reports has some advice to help you shop wisely for this essential summer appliance. Consumer Reports' survey of more than 40,000 subscribers reveals some systems have been much better at keeping their cool than others. Contractor Tim Mosher says it is important to take good care of a central air conditioning system.  "The preventative maintenance in the beginning of the season is better than having to have a serviceman come out during a heat wave," Mosher says. And Consumer Reports says carefully choosing an air conditioning system can help you avoid service calls as well. Its latest product-reliability survey shows some central air systems have been significantly more repair-prone, Amana, Goodman, and York. "In the past six years, close to one in five of these systems needed repairs. That's a lot," said Dan Diclerico from Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports' survey also shows how inconvenient repairs can be. Ten percent of those polled said they needed repeated repairs in the first year. Eighteen percent reported their system broke down completely,  39 percent lost AC for at least a day. "About 30 percent who had problems had to pay $150.00 or more for the repair," DiClerico said. To prevent having to call a repairman, Consumer Reports says invest in a more reliable brand, including ones from American Standard, Rheem, or Trane. And Consumer Reports suggests that plants and hedges should be at least two feet away from the air conditioning unit.
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Also, clean filters and grills monthly, and be sure to seal and insulate every duct. "Up to 30 to 40 percent of energy can escape through leaks when ducts aren't insulated," says DiClerico. Another energy saver, use a programmable thermostat and set the temperature higher when you're out of the house. Consumer Reports' survey turned up more interesting information. Homeowners who hired the installer themselves versus those who let a home builder do the hiring had significantly fewer repairs. And once your system is installed, Consumer Reports says it's important to get it inspected by a professional at the beginning of every cooling season to avoid repair problems. Call 201-358-0537.