Summer Seasonal Tips

Summer: Keeping Your Cool

Summer Maintenance
From June through early September, we can always count on a spell (or two or three!) of sustained high temperatures and humidity. Make sure your air conditioner is up to the task of keeping you comfortable through the worst of the heat.

Have your air conditioner inspected, cleaned, and tuned up once a year by a BETHKE professional. This procedure requires outdoor temperatures of 65°F or warmer. Early summer is an ideal time, although any time during the summer season is appropriate.

Regular tune-ups can correct small problems before they turn into big ones. A clean, properly adjusted air conditioner runs at peak efficiency, saving you money on utility bills.

Call 608-251-2222 to get on our tune-up schedule.

• Check your system's air filter monthly and change it if it's dirty. A dirty filter makes your air conditioner work harder, shortening its lifespan and causing it to use more energy.

• If you have a split-ductless air conditioner, clean the filter at least once a year according to the instruction manual. Call us if you have questions about this procedure. We can guide you through it.

• Keep weeds and other vegetation at least two feet away from the condenser, the component of the air conditioner located outside. There must be sufficient air flow to prevent your air conditioner from overheating.

• Avoid blowing grass clippings toward the condenser when mowing the lawn. Grass clippings can be drawn into the condenser, obstructing air flow.

• If there are cottonwood trees in your neighborhood, the fluffy seeds can be drawn into the condenser where they will obstruct air intake. If this is a concern in your location, consider scheduling your annual tune-up soon after the cottonwoods shed their seeds. We can clean out the seeds during the tune-up.

Save Money and Energy

• Set your thermostat to 78°F or higher, and keep the windows closed when both high temperatures and high humidity set in. According to Madison Gas & Electric, you can save 1% on your energy costs for every 1°F; you increase your thermostat setting while the air conditioner is on.

• Don't air condition the whole neighborhood! While we often think about sealing up air leaks during the heating season, stopping leaks with caulk and weather stripping can help save on summer cooling bills, too.

• Reduce your air conditioner's workload by closing shades and curtains during the hottest parts of the day.

• Program your set-back thermostat to reduce air conditioner use when you are away for extended periods. Madison Gas & Electric estimates that you can save 20 to 60 cents per hour if you turn off your air conditioner while on vacation.