Get ready: Warm weather is here to stay!

As we move further into spring, the outdoor temperature fluctuations that cause us to flip-flop the thermostat between “heat” and “cool” are occurring less frequently. Let’s get ready for full-time cooling. First, change that filter, then go outside and hose off the air conditioning unit, if needed, to clear it of excess pollen or leaves that have collected there. This will allow your A/C unit to “breathe.” Or better yet, let Hillside make sure you are ready for summer with an A/C Tune-up.

Now it is time to test your A/C unit to see how well it’s cooling. Lowe’s* recommends these steps:

1. After setting your thermostat to “cool,” set the temperature to well below the room’s temperature. You should hear your system kick on and feel air blowing out of your vents.
2. Place a thermometer at a vent nearest where the inside unit is in your house. After about 10 minutes, record the temperature.
3. Move the thermometer to an air return and leave it there until the temperature remains steady. Record that temperature.
4. Subtract the second reading (at the air return) from the first reading (at the vent). A healthy difference should be 14–20 degrees Fahrenheit. Less than that may indicate a problem, such as low refrigerant.

If you haven’t done so already, have your A/C unit serviced for the warm-weather season to ensure its parts are clean and in good working order.

Let Hillside HVAC keep you up and running this summer! Delaware: 302-738-4144 Maryland: 410-398-2146

*Ref: http://www.lowes.com/cd_Test+Your+Central+Airs+Cooling+Ability_1351517191983_ng+Ability_1351517191983_