Now is the time of year when many of us begin looking forward to warmer weather. As temperatures begin to rise, your air conditioner will play a critical role in keeping you comfortable during the dog days of summer.

But, is it ready? Even if your existing system is still operating, it may not be operating efficiently and that could be costing you extra money to cool your home. There are two things you can do to help your air conditioner operate at peak efficiency—have it serviced or, if it is old, replace it with a more energy efficient model before the summer rush.

In addition to our solar offerings, Shine also offers full-service HVAC installation, repair and service through its Shine Air division that can assist you with either of these options.

Service Option

As with any mechanical device, your home’s air conditioner needs to be properly maintained to operate at peak efficiency and to last as long as possible. This requires the assistance of an HVAC professional, the same way your car requires a mechanic for a professional service and inspection.

So, what does a typical AC inspection and service include? Here are a few of the areas that are checked:

·        Overall system operation.

·        Cleaning outdoor unit and coils.

·        Checking for current faults in the system.

·        Checking refrigeration levels.

·        Checking for leaks.

·        Checking the filters.

·        Inspection of electrical components in outdoor unit.

·        Visual inspection of wiring at outdoor unit.

·        Inspection of surge protectors.

·        Cleaning the condensate drain(s).

Most HVAC companies like Shine Air offer an annual service plan that will ensure both your air conditioner and furnace are safe and properly maintained. It is worth the investment to ensure any problems are caught and fixed before the heat of summer arrives. A well-maintained air conditioner will also save you money and make your home more comfortable.

Replacement Option

If your AC is on its last leg, you might consider replacing it now with a more energy efficient model before summer arrives in full force. According to the DOE, you can save between 20%-40% per year on your cooling energy costs by replacing an AC unit that’s just 10 years old. So, why not make the switch now and save money?

When choosing a new model, be sure to pick one with the Energy Star label and/or a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. This will ensure you achieve the same level of comfort or better while using less energy to cool your home. In fact, today’s best air conditioners use 30% to 50% less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as air conditioners made in the mid-1970s and last between 15-20 years according to the DOE.

Replacing your AC now will not only avoid a potential breakdown during the hottest part of summer, but will also ensure that you have a reliable unit that is more energy efficient and just as effective as your old model. If you’re interested in what options are available, call Shine Air at 479-527-0404 and let us help you choose an air conditioner that fits your needs.

Install A Programmable Thermostat

In addition to servicing or replacing your air conditioner, one of the biggest impacts you can have on your electric bill this summer is to install a programmable thermostat. According to the Department of Energy, the average homeowner can save as much as 10% per year on heating and cooling by adjusting the thermostat up or down by 7°–10°F for eight hours a day.

For many homeowners, this is easy to do because they work during the day. A programmable thermostat allows you to automatically adjust the temperature up during periods when you are away from home and then return to normal when you come back. Or, if you’re at home most of the time, you could adjust the temperature to go up during the evening hours or while you are in bed when outside temperatures are typically lower.

Installing a programmable thermostat is the easiest way to make a significant dent in your electric bill during hot weather. They cost an average of $50 and can be purchased from your local home improvement store.

So, regardless of whether you choose to service your air conditioner or replace it, Shine Air can help you with whatever your air conditioning needs might be. Give us a call today at (844)807-4463 or visit us at Shine Solar and let us arrange a time to work with you.

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