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Spring is in the air. That means the heat of summer is on the horizon, bringing with it vacation season. While it’s easy to look ahead to summer, spring cleaning and maintenance is important, especially when it comes to your home’s cooling and heating system. Spring cleaning can seem like such a daunting task, that it’s always good to get organized. So, before we jump ahead to summertime and vacation plans, here are a few reasons to put your home’s air conditioning system at the top of your spring cleaning list:

  • Being prepared. We don’t have to worry about those blazing hot summer days yet, but it won’t be long before your cooling system is challenged to provide round-the-clock comfort. Cleaning and tuning up your system and addressing A/C repair issues before they become critical is key.
  • Hidden allergens. What you can’t see can most definitely hurt you. Mold, dust, bacteria and nasty other airborne materials and contaminants like to invade your system and hide out on coils and in the air ducts.
  • Hidden costs. A dirty system costs you money, plain and simple. The afore-mentioned collection of dirt and other materials can represent as much as 30% of a cooling bill. Obstructions and leaks in your ductwork can add 20% or more to your energy usage. And don’t forget to check your system’s refrigerant – if it’s low it can result in another 20% increase in energy bills.

Alright, now you have your spring cleaning done, summer is inching closer and you’re ready to start planning for that vacation. It takes a little work preparing for time away, whether that is a family vacation or relocation to a second home several weeks. In addition to cleaning out the refrigerator and other basic household cleaning and chores, you will need to make arrangements for plant and pet care and also notify neighbors and local law enforcement agencies of your vacation plans.
Here are some other handy tips::

  • Unplug small appliances such as televisions, microwaves, etc.
  • Check and test smoke detectors and security systems and make sure they are operational
  • Shut off water at the main valve coming into the house. Then, arrange for friends or neighbors to turn on water, run faucets and flush toilets once a month.
  • Keeping your air conditioner thermostat turned up while you’re not there not only saves money, it’s just common sense. Turning up the thermostat to 80-85 degrees can save you as much as 2% per degree on your electric bill. Another way to save is to install a WiFi thermostat that can be controlled remotely by you via your computer or cell phone.

And remember to keep your cooling system maintained with regular tune-ups and service. Call Sanborn’s today to schedule service/maintenance or to learn more about WiFi thermostat installation.