Print
Share page with AddThis

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems

  • Give your HVAC system a pre-season tune-up. HVAC system performance declines without regular maintenance. Have cooling systems checked every spring, heating units every fall. Treat water in evaporative condensers regularly. Ask your HVAC contractor about an annual maintenance contract. You will save money and be more comfortable.
  • Use free cooling. Install economizers to use outdoor air for cooling when outdoor temperatures are lower than indoors.
  •  Install ENERGY STAR ceiling fans to create air movement. Air temperatures can vary up to 5 degrees Fahrenheit between floors and ceilings. Moving air also feels cooler due to convective cooling.
  • Set thermostats higher in summer. Set thermostats at 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher during the cooling season; turn A/C systems off when the building is unoccupied and back on one hour before the start of business.
  • Set thermostats lower in winter. Set thermostats at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower during the heating season when the building is occupied, and 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit when the building is unoccupied or used only for storage.
  • Weatherize window air conditioners. Make sure the area around the window or over-the-door air conditioners is sealed properly. Use an insulating exterior cover in winter.