Air conditioning is a must have for many families in south eastern Pennsylvania, especially as temperatures continue to rise as we head into summer. While you may know that your HVAC system require regular maintenance and care to keep them running properly, how well do you really know your HVAC system? Take this true/false quiz to test your knowledge!
True or False: Your HVAC unit will perform the same no matter where it is installed.
False! Your HVAC equipment is meant to last, but it’s not indestructible. It is best to install an outdoor unit in the shade, out of direct sunlight. When planting greenery around your unit for shade or for aesthetic reasons, make sure not to block airflow. When installing a thermostat in your home, it is best to keep it away from appliances and lights that give off heat because this may cause your unit to run longer than needed.
True or False: You should change your air filters at least once every 3 months.
True! You should be replacing your air filters every 60 to 90 days, to dispose of the dust and other allergens that they catch. It’s easy to change your filters; doing so will ensure the longevity of your heating and cooling systems and keep your air clean.
True or False: Lowering the thermostat will help cool your home faster
False! Modern HVAC systems work at the same speed no matter the temperature. Most units have a central air unit that uses a single fan. This means no matter how low you set your thermostat, the unit will continue to deliver cool air at the same rate. So even if you turn the unit down to 50 degrees won’t cool you down any faster. Set your thermostat to the desired temperature or you may strain your system and run a higher-than-expected energy bill, especially if you forget to re-adjust the thermostat back!
True or False: Leaving the AC on all day is more efficient than re-cooling your house when you get home.
False! Even though it may seem like a good idea to leave the air-conditioning running so you can return to a cooled house after work, it’s really a waste of time and energy. There’s no need to keep replacing cool air with more cool air when you’re not at home to enjoy it. If you have specific temperature preferences, it may be time to invest in a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to turn your air conditioning temperature up when you leave the house and set a timer to start cooling things down about a half hour before you return home. By setting a cooling schedule you will use less energy and put less strain on your A/C (and your wallet)!
True or False: Closing the shades or drapes on a hot and sunny day will give your AC a break.
True! Keeping the hot sun from entering your windows will help prevent a spike in indoor temperature. This will help your AC unit, so it isn’t overworked.
True or False: To cool a room faster, leave a ceiling fan on.
False! Fans cool people, not air. They cannot lower a room’s air temperature. The cooling effect is felt through evaporation on the skin. Leaving your ceiling fan on when you are not in the room can waste energy and money.
As common as AC and HVAC systems are, there is a lot to learn. To keep your systems running as efficient as possible, rely on Munro Heating and Air to handle any of your HVAC needs! Contact us today (484) 932-8374.
