Nationwide, air conditioning accounts for approximately 16 percent of the home’s annual electricity bill. But, in warmer climates, like that in Phoenix, air conditioning can account for up to 70 percent of your summer’s utility bill. What makes matters even worse is that many homeowners (a) don’t know how to properly use air conditioning in Arizona, and (b) have developed some very bad money-wasting habits with their A/C usage.

Phoenix Air Conditioning Mistakes –- Not Using a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats feature an internal timer that can automatically turn the unit off or on at various pre-scheduled times during the day and night. If you are still using the old manual thermostats, you are making a mistake that could be costing you hundreds of dollars a year. Running your air conditioning in Arizona when you’re not home is like throwing money out the window.

Phoenix Air Conditioning Mistakes – Closing Registers in Unoccupied Rooms

Many homeowners are under the assumption that if they close off registers in unoccupied rooms, it will allow more air to flow into the rooms where the registers are open. This is false. Any professional Arizona A/C service company should tell you that your unit is designed to work with all of the registers open. Closing off certain ones will cause the system to become unbalanced and inefficient.

Phoenix Air Conditioning Mistakes – Improper Sizing

If you are having a new air conditioning unit installed in your home, make sure the service you choose is installing the properly sized unit for your home. If the Arizona A/C service company installs a unit that is too small or too large, your system will be inefficient and waste energy. It can be easy to rely solely on the individual who is providing your air conditioning services in Phoenix, but always ask them to double check and if possible, get multiple quotes to check for similar numbers.

Phoenix Air Conditioning Mistakes – Forgetting to Change the Filter

The number one reason for inefficient Phoenix air conditioning is also the easiest problem to fix -- changing the filter. A dirty air filter will cause your A/C unit to work extra hard, which in return will cause it to use more electricity. Filters should be replaced at a minimum every three months or monthly if you have pets or live in a dusty region.

Phoenix Air Conditioning Mistakes – Congested Condensers

Condensing units need good airflow in order to work properly. Unfortunately, many homeowners store things around them or allow grass or weeds to grow high around them. Air conditioning in Arizona is used nearly year-round, so homeowners must be vigilant about keeping the area around their condensing unit clean and unobstructed. Lastly, another tip to help you stop wasting money on Arizona air conditioning. Keep your shades closed during very hot, sunny days. By opening them, the sun’s rays will heat the interior of your home, forcing your air conditioning to run constantly. Hire the most reputable air conditioning services in Phoenix today and make sure your Arizona air conditioning unit is working as efficiently as it can. The service repairman who inspects your A/C unit will be able to provide you with advice that will help you get the most out of your system so you can start saving money.

In Arizona, depending on where you live, the climate can change from hot to cold in as little as a few hours. While the sun is in the sky, it can get downright hot, but when it sets, a chill settles over the land, forcing some people to switch their thermostats from A/C to heat. Because of these wild changes in temperature, heating and air conditioning in Arizona homes is in a continuous state of flux. What many homeowners don’t understand is that their constant reliance on Arizona air conditioning and forced air heat can diminish the quality of the air in their homes – if they don’t do anything about it, that is. Use the following tips to improve the indoor air quality of your Arizona home. Perform them as recommended and you will breathe healthier and reduce the risk of having to call an Arizona A/C service to repair an overworked system.

Optimal Indoor Air Quality and Efficient Heating and Air Conditioning in Arizona

• Replace the air filter for your Arizona air conditioning and heating system at least twice a year, or monthly if you have more than one pet.

• Use only high-quality, high-efficiency air filters for your forced-air system.

• Open your home’s windows in the early hours of the day before it gets hot outside so fresh air can enter the home while expelling the stale air.

• Use your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans to prevent moisture from building up in the home.

• Inspect your exhaust fans to make sure they exhaust the air directly outside the home, not into the attic or a crawlspace.

• Reduce pet dander by bathing your pets regularly.

• Keep your cat’s litter box away from vents or air intakes.

• While vacuuming or dusting, turn your furnace’s blower motor on to collect any airborne particles.

• Bed linens should be washed in hot water at least once a week to help prevent dust mites from accumulating.

• Since allergens like to stick to the bottoms of the shoes, removing your shoes before entering your home will help keep the allergens outside and prevent them from circulating throughout your home.

• Remove any debris or junk that may be stored around your furnace as these things constrict airflow, causing your Arizona air conditioning and heating system to run less efficiently.

• Keep all of your vents open. Closing off vents can cause your heating and air conditioning system to become unbalanced. A forced-air system is designed and calculated to work at optimum efficiency with all of the vents opened.

• Contact a reputable Arizona A/C service to inspect your air conditioning system at least once a year.

Heating and air conditioning in Arizona is unlike any other part of the country and as such, it takes specific regional experience to properly service and maintain a forced-air system so it continues to operate at an optimum level. In order to keep your indoor air quality at its best, follow these tips and hire a reputable Arizona air conditioning and heating company to check your system if it has been over a year since your last inspection.

Tempe can get pretty cool, especially in the evenings during the winter and late in the fall. While the chiller months call for a reliable Tempe heating furnace, you may be a little worried about utility bills. However, by adhering to a few guidelines, you can enjoy energy efficient home heating.

Is a Tempe Heating Furnace Replacement Unit Necessary?

In some cases, as with old furnaces, the steps you take toward energy efficiency won't make much difference. If your unit is a couple of decades old, it might be time to start shopping for a Tempe heating furnace replacement system. Newer models are more efficient than older systems and the energy savings you'll notice are well worth it in the long run. Depending on the system, even furnace models that are less than 20 years old may not be running as efficiently as possible. For example, if years back, your Tempe heating furnace contractor installed a system that has a pilot light instead of an electronic ignition, chances are that your level of efficiency is around 65 percent. In some cases, it may not be the furnace itself, but rather the ventilation and ductwork. To find out where your system stands in terms of energy conservation, contact a Tempe heating furnace service contractor to conduct a routine inspection. Addressing Tempe heating furnace service issues right away can make a remarkable difference in your utility bills and ensure the indoor warmth and comfort of your home.

Hire a Qualified Tempe Heating Furnace Contractor for Efficient Home Heating

Whether you need heating furnace replacement, inspection or repairs, make sure you work with a qualified Tempe heating furnace service contractor. An experienced contractor can aptly address all of your needs and ensure that your furnace is running as efficiently as possible. If you're in the market for a replacement unit, a professional Tempe heating furnace contractor with extensive experience in energy efficient systems will evaluate your home and conduct a heat loss analysis prior to determining which size furnace you will need. The furnace size, brand, capacity and installation are all important factors that dictate the level of heating efficiency in your home. For example, if the capacity of your Tempe heating furnace replacement exceeds your needs, you'll end up with an overall less efficient system.

Energy Efficient Tempe Heating Furnace -- Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are another facet of an energy efficient heating furnace. In some cases, as with central air conditioning units, you will need to evaluate two different types of efficiency ratings. Look for efficiency ratings of at least 9.0 HSPF and 14.5 SEER.

Additional Tips for an Efficient Tempe Heating Furnace

Aside from properly installing the best furnace for your home, there are other ways to maximize the energy efficiency of your Tempe heating furnace. Be sure to clean and replace filters according to the directions of the product manufacturer. Clean and remove any obstructions from your registers, such as furniture and carpeting. You also want to make sure that ductwork is sealed to ensure proper airflow and minimize heat loss. In addition, keep your thermostat in check by lowering the temperature when no one is home and during sleeping hours. Lowering the thermostat by even a few degrees will help you stay comfortable indoors and enjoy substantial savings on your energy bills.

As part of the continuing effort to support efficient home heating and cooling, APS is offering a rebate for Arizona homeowners, called the APS Duct Test and Repair Rebate Program. The rebate program offers a return of up to $250 dollars for those who hire an authorized Building Performance Institute (BPI) contactor to test and conduct air leak repairs for their air conditioning and heating duct systems. APS is Arizona's chief electricity company, serving approximately 1.1 million residences and businesses in most Arizona counties.

Arizona Air Conditioning Repair -- How Duct Leaks Reduce Heating and Cooling Efficiency

Efficient air conditioning and heating in Arizona requires more than just the purchase of the right system. While many homeowners buy energy efficient heating and cooling systems, even that paired with proper installation will not prevent eventual deterioration. Arizona air conditioning duct systems should be tested periodically to ensure they are running as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. Given the desert climate of the Grand Canyon State, many residents devote nearly half of their energy bills to air conditioning and heating in Arizona. Additionally, a number of Arizona air conditioning systems are subjected to temperatures that exceed 140 degrees. Since most duct systems are located in places such as the attic, the hottest site of a home structure, the frequent exposure to extreme heat can lead to leaks in the duct system and lower the efficiency of the entire air conditioning and heating unit. For Arizona air conditioning systems with air leaks, airflow can be diminished by as much as one-third. The amount of lost air contributes substantially to the cost of heating and cooling your home. Even if you don’t notice a difference in your comfort level, you probably will when your energy bill arrives. By addressing Arizona air conditioning repair needs and getting those duct leaks fixed right away, you could be shaving over $200 from annual energy costs. Additionally, with the APS Duct test and Repair Rebate Program, you can already count on great savings.

How to Qualify for the APS Duct Test and Repair Rebate Program

The rebate program is an exclusive offer for homeowners who are existing APS clients. Duct testing and repairs for air conditioning and heating systems in Arizona must take place after December 31, 2007. Candidates must submit applications to APS within six months following Arizona air conditioning and heating duct system tests and repairs. New homes are not eligible for the rebate program.

Wolff Mechanical -- An Authorized BPI Contractor

Come to Wolff Mechanical for professional Arizona air conditioning and heating service. Wolff Mechanical is BPI certified and authorized to perform testing and repairs to help you qualify for the APS rebate program. If we find any leaks, we'll conduct the necessary repairs, perform a retest and submit the results for you. At Wolff Mechanical, we help you stay comfortable indoors and save money at the same time.

In Phoenix, Arizona, air conditioning is virtually a way of life. However, while staying cool is important, keeping on top of your utility bills is another priority. Use the following tips to make the most of clean fresh air indoors and reap the benefits of energy efficiency at the same time.

Phoenix Air Conditioning -- Keep Your Central A/C System Cool

As a resident of Phoenix, Arizona, air conditioning affords you the indoor comfort necessary to rule out the heat. Depending on your central air conditioning system, whether a packaged unit or a split-system, your Arizona A/C service provider will need to install part or all of the HVAC system outdoors. Plan the outdoor installment of your Phoenix air conditioning system in a shaded area to keep the unit cool and prevent overstressing the entire system. For existing air conditioning units, you can plant trees or tall shrubs in the area to provide some natural shade. Any protection from those penetrating sunrays will enhance the energy efficiency of your Phoenix, Arizona, air conditioning system and reduce the output necessary to cool itself and your home.

Air Conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona -- Commit to a Regular Maintenance Schedule

Many homeowners make the mistake of ignoring their Arizona A/C service and repair needs. Aside from buying a top-notch, highly efficient Phoenix air conditioning system and having it properly installed by a reputable Arizona A/C service, routine maintenance and repair is your next best defense. Neglecting repair needs places unnecessary stress on your A/C unit, reducing the overall efficiency and causing the entire system to work much harder to cool your home. Work out a maintenance schedule that you can commit to with your Arizona A/C service provider. In fact, some of the maintenance can be carried out independently, such as checking the filters and replacing them as necessary.

Efficient Air Conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona -- Run Appliances During Off-Peak Hours

While converting all of your home appliances to ENERGY STAR models can substantially increase your energy efficiency, there's a lot more you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and lower those utility bills. Save your Phoenix air conditioning unit a lot of work by giving your home appliances a break during peak usage hours and the hottest times of the day. Since appliances like your dishwasher and dryer increase the level of heat and humidity in your home, restricting usage to early in the morning or during the evening can reduce the need to run your Phoenix air conditioning system. Another way to increase the energy efficiency of your home is to use smaller appliances whenever possible. Small home appliances emit less heat and if you don't plan on cooking up a storm in the oven, a microwave or a small electric grill will often suffice. Efficient air conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona is within reach. Incorporating these tips can help lower your energy bills and keep your home a nice and cool respite from the Arizona heat.

With the installation of an energy efficient A/C unit in Phoenix, you can enjoy reduced utility expenses, as well as improve the comfort level and indoor air quality of your home. However, since nearly half of home energy costs stem from running an HVAC system, Arizona residents are continuously in search of additional ways to conserve. Find out more about how you can use fans to reduce the cost for Phoenix air conditioning.

AZ Air Conditioning -- Fans and the Benefit of Moving Air

When used correctly, a fan can help reduce your need for fossil fuels, lower you usage of Phoenix air conditioning and help keep your utility bills low. In fact, when the air is moving, your home can feel a few degrees cooler than it actually is.

Which Fans Increase Energy Efficiency and Lower A/C Costs?

Any type of fan, whether a ceiling fan, whole-house fan or oscillating fan, can help reduce the need to run your AZ air conditioning unit. As long as the fan enhances the level of indoor comfort in your Phoenix home, you will effectively lower your dependence on air conditioning.

How to Conserve Energy With a Whole-House Fan

A whole-house fan is usually installed in the attic of a home. It draws cooler air in through the windows of a home and pushes hot air up and out. Never use your Phoenix air conditioning system and the whole-house fan simultaneously. The HVAC unit conditions and cools your home. Running a whole-house fan at the same time will push the conditioned air out, thus defeating the entire purpose of your AZ air conditioning unit. In essence, the A/C system will have to work harder to keep humidity levels low inside your home. Use your whole-house fan as much as possible during months without excessive heat and humidity. Transition to your Phoenix air conditioning system once the heat and moisture levels intensify.

AZ Air Conditioning -- Saving Energy With Ceiling Fans and Oscillating Fans

Ceiling fans and oscillating fans improve the circulation of indoor air. They can be used independently or as an enhancement to your Phoenix air conditioning system. As stated earlier, moving air provides a cooling effect. As a result, you can raise the thermostat and reap considerable savings on your utility bills. When installing ceiling fans, make sure the blades have at least eight inches of room from the ceiling. You will also want to consider the size of the room when deciding on an appropriate ceiling fan installment. A cost-effective strategy is to use ceiling fans and oscillating fans as your first defense in home cooling. During the more comfortable AZ months, you can run the fans exclusively, conserve energy and drastically lower your utility bills. Once the humidity and heat levels become overbearing, use your AZ air conditioning system. During these hotter months, you can create efficient A/C in Phoenix by running ceiling fans and oscillating fans at the same time. Be mindful of your usage of fossil fuels and maximize the benefits of efficient A/C in Phoenix. With a few simple adjustments in how you approach cooling for your Arizona home, you'll be able to stay comfortable and conserve energy at the same time.

Home heating and cooling comprises the majority of your energy bills. In fact, nearly half of home energy costs are devoted to heating and cooling. When it comes to energy conservation in Arizona, everybody can win. With a few simple tips, you can not only decrease the overall demand for fossil fuels, but also reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower your energy bills at the same time.

No. 1 -- Watch the Thermostat for Efficient A/C in Phoenix

Being mindful of the home thermostat can help conserve your usage of AZ air conditioning and heating. During winter, keep the temperature as low as you can without discomfort. In the summer, keep the temperature as high as possible. Even a few degrees difference is practically unnoticeable and can go far toward efficient A/C usage in Phoenix.

No. 2 -- Clean or Replace Filters on Your AZ Air Conditioning System

An energy efficient Phoenix air conditioning unit has a clean air filter. By cleaning or replacing your air filters during the recommended intervals, you avoid overstressing your HVAC system and keep your energy bills at a minimum.

No. 3 -- Free and Clean Airflow Conserves Energy

Make sure your baseboard heaters, radiator and warm air ducts are clean and free of debris. In addition, keep the airflow unobstructed by furniture or similar obstacles.

No. 4 -- Close the Drapes for Efficient A/C in Phoenix

Everybody loves a little sunshine. However, letting it penetrate the interior of your home increases the need for A/C. You can minimize running your AZ air conditioning system by keeping the drapes closed during the sunlit hours of the day.

No. 5 -- Home Insulation Highlights Energy Conservation

With proper home insulation, you can reduce the need to run your Phoenix air conditioning and heating system throughout the year. Insulating your walls and ceilings helps regulate the temperature of your home.

No. 6 -- Trees to Shade Your Home

Plant a few trees to provide natural shading for your home. You'll notice a substantial reduction in the need to run your Phoenix air conditioning system.

No. 7 -- Purchase Energy Efficient HVAC Equipment in Phoenix

Whether you need new parts for your existing AZ air conditioning unit or plan to replace your entire HVAC system, always purchase equipment that highlights energy efficiency. Look for products that bear the ENERGY STAR logo for the most efficient equipment on the market.

No. 8 -- Check the SEER on Your AZ Air Conditioning Unit

The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures the energy efficiency of your Phoenix air conditioning system. Look for at least 13 SEER on central air systems.

No. 9 -- Select Energy Efficient Home Appliances

In addition to an energy efficient Phoenix air conditioning unit, you can purchase ENERGY STAR models for nearly any home appliance. Reduce the production of appliance generated heat and maximize energy conservation in your home.

No. 10 -- Regular Maintenance for Efficient HVAC in Phoenix

With regular maintenance and repairs to your AZ air conditioning and heating system, you can increase the longevity of your equipment and ensure energy efficiency at all times.

If you live in Phoenix, AZ, air conditioning is a necessity of life. With weather conditions that can get blistering hot, it's crucial that your cooling system is up to speed tip at all times. Find out why routine maintenance and repair of you’re A/C unit in Phoenix saves you from unnecessary expenses and helps keep you safe from those exceedingly high Arizona temperatures

Phoenix Air Conditioning Basics

Air conditioners accomplish two very important tasks that keep you comfortable and sheltered from the Arizona heat: cooling and dehumidifying. A fully functional A/C unit eradicates the indoor heat and distributes cool air, while reducing humidity levels by at least 40 percent.

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Why an Efficient Air Conditioner Is Important: An Arizona Case Study on A/C Costs Every Arizona resident knows the importance of air conditioning. In the Grand Canyon state, air conditioning isn’t just a matter of being more comfortable, but for a residence or business to actually be tolerable. When temperatures in Phoenix can reach into the 120s, air conditioning is more a health issue than a comfort concern. In this day and age, however, cost is also an ultimate concern. Ideally, and quite possibly, you can have a highly efficient air conditioning system that will cut down on your overall costs for electricity. A qualified Arizona A/C service can check your current system to determine ways that it can be improved. Ultimately, the most efficient air conditioner can provide adequate cooling for your home, office or place of business, so air conditioner efficiency is a comfort issue as well.

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