Simple steps can help your air conditioner run more efficiently this summer, from keeping the condenser clear and vents open to placing your thermostat well.

With summer on the way, it is a good time to think about your air conditioning. You want to be sure your system can keep up with your needs for the next few months. If you remember having trouble with your AC last summer, or it has struggled this spring, it may be time to look at your home's efficiency.
If you want more from your air conditioning, there are simple steps you can take to improve your home's efficiency. Not every improvement has to come from a repair or replacement. Try these tips before you invest in anything else.
If you would like to stay cool for less, try these tips this spring and summer.
Make sure your doors and windows are fully shut when the AC is running. If they are not, cool air slips out and your home's efficiency drops. It is surprisingly common for an open window or door to cause comfort problems. Take a walk around your home to check before turning on the system.
Your outdoor unit is just as important as the equipment inside. Check on it now and then to make sure it is clear of leaves, twigs, grass clippings and other debris, and keep plants trimmed back so air can flow freely around it. A little attention here can prevent a lot of efficiency problems. Shade from nearby trees or structures can help too, as long as airflow around the unit is not blocked.
Make sure your home's supply and return vents are open and unobstructed. Move furniture, rugs and curtains away from vents so they can move cool, conditioned air through your home efficiently.
A relaxing summer day at home is hard to beat, but try not to make your air conditioner's job harder than it needs to be. Save activities like baking or running the clothes dryer for cooler parts of the day when possible. Extra heat indoors makes the AC work harder to keep up.
Make sure your thermostat is in the right place. A spot on a wall that gets a lot of direct sunlight is a poor choice, and so is a spot next to a lamp or other heat source. The extra heat throws off the thermostat's reading and causes the system to run inefficiently. If your thermostat is poorly located, our team can help with thermostats and controls.
These tips go a long way, and a professional tune-up before the hot weather arrives adds another layer of care. The Silver and Gold Comfort Club plans include two maintenance visits a year and member savings on repairs. Gibson Home Services serves Cherry Hill, Delran, Moorestown and homeowners across Burlington County.
Call (856) 220-4158 or request service online to schedule a visit with Gibson Home Services.
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