Category: Blog

It’s that time of year again. It’s hot one day and cold the next. Welcome to the South! Here in eastern North Carolina we get all four seasons… sometimes in the same week! So, we all know how difficult it is to regulate the temperature in our homes during this time. During the day you may need to turn your air conditioning on, but at night you may find that it is too cold to fall asleep. Because of this many homeowners switch their units back and forth between the heat and the air conditioning. And why wouldn’t you? Freezing or sweating inside your home shouldn’t be an option.

But will this switching back and forth damage your unit?

The good news is, NO! Generally doing this will not cause any problems with your system and inherently it isn’t bad for your unit. However, there are a few important things you should know before adjusting your thermostat for the crazy, rollercoaster eastern North Carolina weather.

Because of the workload switching back and forth puts on your HVAC unit, preventative maintenance becomes even more important to make sure everything runs smoothly. If you are already a member of our Comfort Club, great! This means that you are keeping up with your maintenance and are already on the right track. If you are not, call us at Advance Mechanical to learn about our maintenance plans and seasonal tune-ups/inspections.

Here are some more tips to ensure that you are switching between heat and air conditioning in the safest way possible.

• Let your unit completely finish its current cycle before switching it. Once it has stopped, shut your unit off completely.
• Wait five or more minutes between turning off one system and turning on the other. If you switch them too quickly you are at risk of blowing a fuse or tripping your breakers.
• Make sure you don’t set the temperature to something drastically different right away when switching between systems. Raise or lower the temperature by just a couple of degrees at a time. This will keep your system from overworking, and it will help it operate more efficiently.

If you find it hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, contact the professional technicians at Advance Mechanical. We are available to inspect your system, make any necessary repairs and tune-ups, and offer advice on the best way for you to stay comfortable in your home. Also, keep in mind that your HVAC system is an investment and it is important to keep it operating efficiently. Make sure to contact Advance Mechanical in Greenville, NC to learn about our maintenance plans.

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, which means six more weeks of winter for all of us here in eastern North Carolina. If you’re ready for warmer weather though, don’t worry. The little guy doesn’t have the most accurate record when it comes to weather predictions.

In either case, you probably won’t be switching your heat off and your air conditioner on anytime soon. Advance Mechanical is here to help keep you and your family warm for all of those cool days we may have left ahead of us. Here are a few tips:

 

1. Open and Clean Floor Air Registers

Make sure that nothing is on top of or near your floor vents. Toys, dust, or furniture obstructing a strong flow can really effect how much warm air circulates throughout your home.

2. Add More Insulation

No, we aren’t suggesting tearing down dry wall. Doing small things can help keep the heat in and better insulate your home. One way to do this is by opening your curtains during the day and closing them at night. This will allow the sun to help heat your home during the daytime, but then keep that heat in your home when the temperatures are at their lowest. Another small step you can take to better insulate your home is to put down more rugs. Many people don’t realize that up to 10% of heat is lost through the flooring. Extra rugs help to prevent heat from seeping into bare floors.

3. Use Your Ceiling Fans

You’ve heard that warm air rises, right? Use that knowledge to your advantage. Running your ceiling fans in reverse will push the hot air back down and redistribute it throughout your home.

4. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, you should! A programmable thermostat allows you to keep an equal balance of heat in your home. You can program your heating system to heat your home to different temperatures at different times of the day. For example, while you are at work or sleeping, you can set it to a lower temperature. Not only will it allow you to better control the heat in your home, it will also save money. Remember, for every degree you lower your thermostat, you can save up to 5% on your heating costs.

5. Change Your Filters

We mention this a lot, but changing your air filters regularly can make a big difference in how much heat you feel in your home. A dirty filter causes your heating system to work harder, which can lead to less efficient heating and higher energy bills.

6. Preventative Maintenance For Your Heating System

One of the best ways to ensure that you stay warm for the rest of winter, is to make sure that your heating system is running properly. Contact Advance Mechanical for a heating system tune-up. Preventative maintenance is the best way to keep your system running all year long!

 

Advance Mechanical is committed to serving the heating needs of Greenville, NC and surrounding areas. Part of our commitment means sharing useful tips to keep you warm all winter long. However, you can’t stay warm without an effective heating system. If your HVAC or heating unit needs to repaired or replaced, contact Advance Mechanical today. Our trusted and experienced technicians have all the tools to make your home comfortable during any season.

It’s a New Year and with it comes resolutions. If you’ve decided to make 2018 a heathier year, you may plan to eat better, go to bed earlier, or exercise more. But, have you thought about the health of the air in your home? It may surprise you, but the air inside your home is often dirtier than the air outside. This is because indoor air is made up of outdoor air plus allergens and pollutants from pets, dust, fireplaces, air fresheners, and more. Keeping air fresh and clean in your home during the winter months can be especially challenging since you (and your pets) are spending more time inside. The quality of the air in your home is important because poor air quality can cause headaches, colds, and even bronchitis.

Advance Mechanical is here to help you keep your New Year’s Resolution of good health. Here are five simple ways you can improve the indoor air quality of your home this winter.

1. Use a HEPA Air Purifier

   High-efficiency Particulate Arrestance (HEPA) filters are designed to help prevent the spread of airborne viral organisms and bacteria. Typically, these filters use high-energy, ultra-violet lights to kill bacteria trapped inside. Ideally, depending on the layout of your home, it is best to have an air purifier in each bedroom and in the main living area. Purified air is especially important for young children and anyone suffering from asthma. The experienced technicians at Advance Mechanical are here to help you choose the best air purifier for the unique conditions in your home.

2. Regular Cleaning

Dusting and vacuuming your home on a regular basis helps tremendously in reducing the amount of airborne pollutants. Use non-toxic cleaning products to help get rid of mold, pet dander, pollen and dust mites that may be lingering.

3. Change the Filters

Change the filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system frequently. For many this is a daunting task, but it is a necessary one for maintaining quality air inside your home. FilterFetch.com offers delivery of professional grade filters to your door. This online service can also email you filter change reminders when it is time. Use our code (CZB) to sign up and take the hassle out of monthly filter changes.

4. Open the Windows

If weather permits, open a window. Winter days in eastern North Carolina can be quite mild, so open the windows of your home to let old air out and fresh air in. Leave the windows open for 5 to 10 minutes. Do this on a daily basis if possible.

5. Put an Air-Filtering Plant in Your Home

Place living plants in your home. This a safe and easy way to add oxygen to the air. Household plants that can help clean and purify your air include: Aloe Vera, Peace Lily, English Ivy, and Areca Lady. Make sure to keep the soil in your plant fresh and the plants healthy. They will not only look beautiful, but also improve your indoor air quality.

 

At Advance Mechanical, we offer a wide range of products that reduce particles, germs, and many toxins in the air. These include HEPA Filters, Micro Power Guard, Oxy Quantum UV lights, and Pan Pad Treatments. We also offer monitoring systems that detect exactly what is in the air you breathe. FooBot is a monitoring device that gathers and transmits information to the experts at Advance Mechanical. With data that tracks even the smallest allergen particles and chemicals in the air, we are able to measure your indoor air quality over an extended period of time and create a plan that is customized to solve your air quality needs.

Your shopping is nearly complete! You’ve wrapped up everything from Aunt Sally’s favorite bath bomb to little Johnny’s new fidget spinner. You’re ready to settle in for the holiday festivities. Before you pour that eggnog though, consider adding a present for just one more: your HVAC unit.

If your HVAC system was a member of the family (and a bit of a health nut), its holiday wish list might look a little something like this:

Some TLC for my blower compartment. It’s getting kind of cruddy in there, and a blocked blower wheel can do a real number on our utility bills. Oh, and I even know some great specialists at Advance Mechanical that can give me just the kind of TLC I am looking for.

A tune-up and inspection to make sure all of my wiring and parts are in tip-top shape. If you’re feeling extra generous, I’d love a Comfort Club Membership. That would get me TWO seasonal system cleanings/tune-ups plus discounts on service, parts & repairs; FREE 77 Point Inspection, priority service and much more!

A programmable and Wi-Fi thermostat. This gift is for you as much as it is for me. Doesn’t a scheduled heating and cooling program sound nice? You can finally stop manually changing the temperature settings throughout the day AND we will save money on that pesky utility bill (that just keeps creeping up in cost the colder it gets).

A new set of filters—the goods ones. You’ve been sneezing a lot lately, so HEPA might be the way to go this year.

Pairing that HEPA filter with an OxyQuantum UV Light System may not be a bad gift idea either. This baby will prolong the life of my heating and cooling systems and provide control for cleaner, fresher and healthier air for the whole house.

Speaking of your indoor air quality, this might be a good time to talk about this MicroPower Guard® Polarized Media Air Cleaner I’ve had my eye on. No pressure, but I think it could help with that sneezing I mentioned. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty!

The items on your HVAC’s holiday wish list may not fit in a stocking or under the tree, but they will pay off for years to come as they improve your unit & equipment’s efficiency and lifespan (talk about a gift that keeps on giving).

Advance Mechanical is your one-stop holiday shop for anything on your HVAC’s wish list. Call us today at (252) 355-9191 or visit us online for all your HVAC needs!

The holiday season is now in full swing. Thanksgiving is right around the corner and Christmas decorations have been in stores for weeks now. We all know that this season can get expensive. From throwing holiday parties and buying new decorations, to getting gifts for loved ones, it all adds up pretty quick. If you are looking for easy ways to make the holiday season a little less hard on your wallet, keep in mind these energy saving tips for your HVAC system. Remember, your air conditioning and heating system is the biggest energy consumer in your home. Making a few small changes to how your system operates can have a significant impact on your savings!

Here are tips to help you save money on heating your home this holiday season.

Indoors or Outdoors

Holiday parties may be the best part of Christmas, but constantly going in and out of your home can lower the efficiency of your HVAC system. If you are hosting a holiday party this season, make it an indoor or outdoor party. Pick one or the other. The stream of air from opening doors can increase heating demand, resulting in longer run times of your system and a higher utility bill.

Winterize You Home

To ensure that cold air is not getting into your home and warm air is not getting out, caulk and weather strip doors and windows. Also, seal air leaks around chimneys, in unfinished spaces behind closets and cabinets, and areas in the basement. By doing this, you should see immediate savings!

Get Cozy

Don’t take off your warm sweater when you get home. Instead, wear it inside and turn your thermostat down a little. For every degree you lower your thermostat, in the 60 – 70 degree range, you can save 5 percent on your heating costs.

Turn on Ceiling Fans

If you have ceiling fans in your home or apartment use them to your advantage to have more control over ventilation. During the winter months, switching your ceiling fans to run clockwise will trap heat inside. Turn ceiling fans on a low setting to push the hot air that rises back down.

Make Adjustments Based on Holiday Plans

If you are planning on visiting family out of town or traveling this holiday season, turn your thermostat down to 55 degrees. Turning your thermostat down while you are away for extended periods can cut your heating bill down 5 – 20 percent!

Upgrade Your Thermostat

Consider upgrading your home system to one that can adjust the thermostat for you or one you can adjust yourself from your smart phone when you are not home. Programmable and Wi-Fi thermostats optimize your energy savings by only heating your home when you are there or are awake to enjoy it.

Have questions?  Ask the experts at Advance Mechanical!

The expert technicians at Advance Mechanical have provided regular HVAC maintenance, replacement and installation for home and business owners all over eastern North Carolina. Our friendly, professional staff services ALL makes and models and we are a certified Trane Dealer. If you want to learn more about upgrading, maintaining or replacing your HVAC system, call us today at (252) 355-9191 or visit us online through our website AdvanceMechnc.com

The days are getting cooler and the leaves are changing colors. Not only does that mean it’s time to start enjoying pumpkin-flavored beverages and deciding on the perfect Thanksgiving side dish, but it is also time to think about your home heating system. Is it ready to handle this year’s chill? No one wants to be left without heat in the middle of cold weather. Regular maintenance can ensure trouble-free operation and help your system keep up with the seasonal temperature swings we often see in eastern North Carolina.

Here is a Winter Maintenance Checklist to help get your HVAC system ready for the cooler days to come!

Inside Your Home

• Replace and Clean Air Filters

Dirty HVAC filters can restrict airflow and make your system less efficient. Replace and clean air filters each month. If you haven’t done it in a while, now is the perfect time. Be sure to continue to do this each month.

• Adjust Supply Registers

We all know that cool air falls and warm air rises. Open a few supply registers on the first floor and close a few on the second floor. This is an especially good tip for commercial buildings with multiple levels.

• Make Sure Your Thermostat is Working Properly
• Check For Energy Leaks in Your Home

Most air is lost in the basement, attic and crawlspace, as well as windows and doors. Seal any energy leaks you see to keep your home better insulated, allowing your heating system to be more efficient.

• Set Your Thermostat

Set your thermostat as low as comfort permits. Remember that each degree over 68°F can add 3% to the amount of energy your unit needs for heating.

• Replace Batteries in Carbon Monoxide Detector and Test
• Listen to Your Unit

Turn your thermostat up to at least 75°F and wait for your heat to turn on. Listen to your HVAC unit. If you hear abnormal noises or banging, contact an HVAC professional.

Outdoor Units

• Clean Unit

You should take the time to clean your outdoor HVAC unit. Remove any debris, such as leaves, sticks, and dead bugs that have been trapped inside or around the bottom of the unit.

• Inspect Fan Motor and Fan Blades

Inspect fan motor and fan blades for wear and damage. Make note of any damages you see and enlist the help of an HVAC professional to make repairs.

• Get an Expert to Inspect Your System

Still Have Questions? Ask the Experts at Advance Mechanical!

The expert technicians at Advance Mechanical have provided regular HVAC maintenance for home and business owners all over eastern North Carolina. Our friendly professional staff services ALL makes and models and we are a certified Trane Dealer. If you want to learn more about our maintenance plans, call us today at (252) 355-9191 or visit us online to learn about the benefits of becoming a Comfort Club Member.

Advance Mechanical Heating and Air Conditioning had a representative served on panel at event hosted by Parents for Public Schools of Pitt County and Pitt Community College.  The panel discussed opportunities at Pitt Community College for students in high school.

Many home owners inherently change their thermostat setting with the seasons to ensure home comfort but suffer the consequences of outrageous utility bills. You shouldn’t have to compromise comfort for saving. No matter the season, these recommended thermostat settings will help prepare your thermostat’s heating and air conditioning and are sure to save you some money along the way.

Recommended Thermostat Settings

Your home’s temperature should change with the seasons. The smaller the difference between the external temperature and the internal temperature of your home, the less work your HVAC unit is going to have to do, which ultimately saves you money.

Winter

During the colder months of the year, you can save energy and keep your costs in check by setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit while you are at home and setting it 5 – 8 degrees lower when you are away.

Depending on your home comfort preferences, you might also consider lowering your home’s temperature at night while you sleep. Many people find sleeping in cooler temperatures ideal and lowering the temperature of your home while you sleep will have the same energy and cost saving effects as lowering the temperature while you are away. You can save as much as 10% a year on your utility bill by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.

Summer

In the summer, to achieve maximum home comfort and energy savings, it is generally recommended to set your thermostat’s cooling system to 78 degrees Fahrenheit while at home.

You can follow the same strategy with your air conditioning as you did in the winter months with your heat, just in reverse. You will save energy and money by keeping your home’s temperature slightly higher while you are away in the summer, just as decreasing the temperature while you are away from home in the winter helps you save.

It is estimated that for each degree higher you set your home’s temperature over 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer, that you could save approximately six to eight percent off your utility bill, per degree.

No matter the season, adjusting your thermostat setting anytime your house is vacant for four or more hours per day can help save you energy. When you are going to be away from home for several hours consider adjusting the temperature 5 – 8 degrees (down in winter, up in summer).

It’s important to note that indoor home humidity plays a role in the comfort of the air in your home as well. Read our blog, Ways to Lower Your Home Humidity, to help you reach your maximum home comfort level.

Benefits of Installing a Programmable Thermostat

Although thermostats can be adjusted manually, programmable thermostats will help you avoid adjusting temperatures before/after you wake and when leaving/returning home. Installing a programmable thermostat will allow you to save on your utility bill and run a scheduled heating and cooling program without having to remember to manually change your settings throughout the day.

When programming your thermostat, take into consideration your daily routine. Do you like to sleep in a cool house? If so, you might want to start the temperature setback a bit ahead of the time you actually go to bed. During the winter to ensure the house is nice and warm when you wake up, you might want to set the thermostat so the heat comes on a bit before you actually get up. Also consider the routines of others in your household. Is there a time during the day when the house is unoccupied for four or more hours? If so, this may be a perfect opportunity to save some energy and adjust the temperature accordingly.

Programmable digital thermostats are designed to maximize the performance of your heating and air conditioning system. Most programmable thermostats are able to automatically adjust the temperature in your home up to six or more times per day. They also allow you to manually override the automatic settings at any time without interrupting the already set programming. Ultimately, programmable thermostats allow you to save money and energy, and offer ease of use and piece of mind.

Check out the energy and money saving programmable thermostats offered by Advance Mechanical here!

Humidity in the summer is inevitable, especially for those of us living in eastern North Carolina.  Between the naturally humid climate and everyday indoor moisture producers such as showering and cooking, it is easy to see why excess indoor humidity is an issue for so many of us.  This guide will give you the tools to identify a humid home, reduce the unwanted moisture, and get you back to your summer fun.

Why is excess indoor humidity bad?

High indoor humidity is a commonly underestimated home hazard.  In addition to being generally uncomfortable, excess indoor humidity can lead to an unhealthy environment. Dust mites, fleas, harmful chemicals, allergens, pathogens, and other unwanted visitors are more abundant in humid conditions.

Indoor humidity levels fluctuate depending on outdoor environment and season, but should ideally stay around 45 percent.  

Signs of a Humid Home

“How can I tell if my home is too humid?”  If you are living with some or all of the following signs, it may be time to take action to reduce your indoor humidity level.

• Water damage / Stains
• Condensation / Foggy windows
• Musty odor
• Increased dust mites and/or fleas
• Swelling / Rotting wood
• Rusting and other oxidation
• ‘Wet’ feeling air
• Increased allergy symptoms
• Increased asthma symptoms
• Sleep problems

If you are still unsure whether or not your home is overly humid, ask an Advance Mechanical specialist about FooBot.  FooBot is the first intelligent device dedicated to indoor health and wellness.  It helps us set the humidity of a room to create a more comfortable environment for the whole family.

Ways to Reduce Indoor Humidity

Some minor interior adjustments and lifestyle changes are recommended to help maintain your ideal indoor humidity level.  Even though these recommendations involve some costs, they will save energy, save you money, and improve your family’s health (pets included).

Ventilation

The most effective tool in reducing indoor humidity is ventilation.  Use vent fans whenever possible in kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture rich areas of your home.  Opening a window for a few minutes can help to dry the air as well.  Increasing ventilation increases airflow, which ultimately reduces humidity.

Fans

The use of ceiling fans increases airflow and aids evaporation.

Short Cool Showers

Bathrooms are infamous for excessively humid conditions.  Long, hot showers produce steam, which creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth in addition to raising your home’s humidity.  Short, cool showers reduce steam, humidity, mold, and mildew.

Cooking Control

Cover pots/pans when cooking to reduce moisture in the air.  The use of exhaust fans and slow cookers will also reduce moisture associated with stovetop cooking.

Air Conditioning

Warmer air is capable of holding greater amounts of moisture.  Running your air conditioner will remove moisture at the condenser.  Humidity will decrease as the air cools.  Lowering the airflow speed of your air conditioner lowers the temperature of the evaporator coil, which produces less coil sweat and less humidity.

Pan Pad Treatment

When hot, humid air passes through the cooling coil in your HVAC unit, condensation collects in a drip pan.  If left standing, the water in this pan becomes a stale, slimy breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria.  At Advance Mechanical we offer an EPA registered, time released pan treatment strip to keep drain lines and pans clean, reduce indoor humidity, and prevent bacteria growth.

Dehumidifiers

Using a dehumidifier is recommended if you live in an older, less ventilated home or if interior adjustments have been ineffective.  Close windows and doors, and situate your dehumidifier away from walls and furniture for optimal performance.  Dehumidifiers come in many shapes and sizes and utilize a variety of technologies.  It is important to research the different types (desiccant dehumidifiers, mechanical/refrigerant dehumidifiers, and peltier dehumidifiers) to ensure that you purchase the one best suited to your situation and lifestyle.

Still have questions?  Ask the experts at Advance Mechanical!

The expert technicians at Advance Mechanical routinely address indoor air quality issues for home and business owners all over eastern North Carolina.  If you are struggling with indoor humidity and would like to learn more about our in-home moisture control methods, call us today at (252) 355-9191.

When faced with HVAC repair issues in the blistering heat of summer many homeowners ask themselves – should I repair or replace my air conditioner? Maybe this is the first time your unit has called it quits, maybe you have been dealing with reoccurring repairs all year long or maybe your utility bill has simply gotten out of hand. Whatever it may be, the decision to repair or replace your air conditioner is not an easy one. Each situation stands on it’s own and many factors need to be considered to help answer your question. We have compiled the following guidelines to help with your decision.

Recognize the Time for Repair vs. Replacement

Air Conditioner Age – Most HVAC technicians recommend upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your current central air conditioner is 10-15 years or older. Although some systems may last longer than others, all systems will increasingly lose energy efficiency over time, costing you more energy dollars in the long run.

Frequent Breakdowns – If you are making monthly service calls to keep your system up and running, it may be time to consider replacement. On the other hand, if your system is serviced routinely and you haven’t experienced regular breakdowns, a repair may be easier on your wallet.

Uneven Temperatures – Uneven temperatures in your home may be an indicator that your air conditioner needs to be replaced or repaired.

Noise – Your system can become excessively noisy and even turn off unexpectedly if it is having to overexert itself to keep up with the cooling demands of your home. The excessive noise could indicate that your system needs to be replaced or repaired. Having a regular maintenance schedule and annual professional maintenance done can help preserve the function of your system and prevent problems before they occur.

Benefits to Replacing Your HVAC System

Cost Savings – Recent advances in A/C technology have greatly improved energy efficiency. In many cases, a great deal of energy can be saved by upgrading to a newer, more efficient system. By calculating your Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) you can determine how efficiently your current system is running. Depending on your EER, upgrading could save you 20% to 40% on heating and cooling costs.

EER calculation: You can calculate your EER by taking the total BTU (British Thermal Unit) of heat rejected, or actual cooling per hour and diving it by the watts of electricity used to reject the heat.

New Warranties – Many newer units come with warranties from their manufactures. Warranties will help you save on repair costs should any issues arise with your new unit.

Improved Indoor Air Quality – In comparison to older systems, new equipment does a better job of controlling temperature and humidity, which helps reduce mold and mildew growth. Less dust can even be noticed when replacing your air conditioner. With better temperature control and less allergens in the air the comfort and air quality of your home will be improved.

Peace of Mind – No more having to worry about your system quitting on you in the heat of summer! You can find peace of mind with your new air conditioner knowing that worry-free operation is in your future for many years to come.

Benefits of Repair

Newer Systems – For a new or relatively new system, it is likely that replacement isn’t necessary. With newer systems a simple repair is usually all that is needed.

Cost of Repairs – Consider the 50% Rule. If the cost of repairs is less than half (50%) of the value of your heating or cooling system, a repair is probably your best option. However, when the cost of repairs starts to creep closer to that 50% mark, it’s generally time to replace the system. This metric is a good rule of thumb to take into account when considering whether to repair or replace your A/C unit, but you should always consider your specific situation and consult a professional.

Maintenance – In many cases some simple maintenance techniques can help prolong your system’s lifespan and make immediate replacement unnecessary. If your system is neither old or new, ask your technician if regular maintenance is your best option and what you can do to get a few more years out of your existing system.

Still Have Some Questions? Ask the Experts at Advance Mechanical!

If you still can’t decide between replacement or repair, contact Advance Mechanical. From expert AC replacement & installation in Washington and surrounding cities to dependable repairs. Our friendly professional staff services ALL makes and models and can help you determine whether repairing or replacing your system is the best decision for you!

You may have bought out all the bug spray and lathered up with SPF50, but have you prepared your home for the hot summer months still ahead? Although most of us have already been in full-on summer mode since Memorial Day, summer didn’t officially start until June 21st. That means there is still plenty of time to plant those trees, dust off your fans, and make sure your home is up to the task of taking on the summer heat. There are a few things you need to do to get your home safe and comfortable for the long hot days of summer, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The following list gives energy and cost saving tips to keep your home cool for the summer!

Landscaping

If you’ve been putting off a landscaping project, now may be the time to get started. Planting shade trees or shrubs by your windows that receive a lot of light during the hottest parts of the day and/or by windows that get a lot of light when the sun is setting can help with cooling down the interior of your home during the hot summer months.

Exterior Window Coverings

Trees are just one way to shade your windows from the outside. Awnings, screen shades and even window tint are also options that can help keep your home from getting as warm during the day.

Fans

Fans are great for extra circulation during the summer when the indoors and outdoors are a little more stuffy than usual. Make sure to clean the blades of ceiling fans, and the blades and grill of portable fans. Clean fans mean you get refreshing circulated air without unpleasant dust and dirt floating throughout your home.

Air Conditioning Checkup

Having your A/C stop working in the dead heat of summer is less than ideal. If you rely on your central air to help you stay cool, you’ll want to be sure it’s functioning properly and efficiently. To keep your air conditioning running smooth throughout the summer we suggest you change or clean your filters once a month, make sure the outdoor unit is clear of debris, and to have your air conditioning unit serviced. It is important to hire a professional at least once a year to clean indoor ductwork, check fan belts on the outdoor unit, and make sure everything is working safely, properly, and efficiently. Regular maintenance keeps your air conditioning unit running more efficiently; and a more efficient unit due to proper maintenance can help reduce your monthly energy bills.

Thermostat

Programmable and wi-fi thermostats are the perfect addition to your energy saving high efficiency air conditioning system. These thermostats are designed to maximize the performance of your air conditioning system, offer reliable accurate temperature control, and are easy to use. With several programming options you can set your thermostat to keep you cool at night and save energy during the day. They are also ideal for vacation homeowners who want to adjust the A/C in their vacation home before they arrive, and conserve energy while they are away. All you have to do is set it and you’ll start to see savings.

For more tips or to talk with an Advance Mechanical technician call (252)-355-9191!

Advance Mechanical hosts construction students to tour sheet metal shop and warehouse

South Central High School students listen to Tim Hatch, sales representative for Trane out of the Raleigh office, speak at Advance Mechanical.

Link to Original Article

Randy demonstrating HVAC to the construction students. During this semester long project the students were able to install a split system from start to finish. They were also able to install the duct work. At the end of the project Advance Mechanical selected two students to be part of a full-time paid summer internship.