It’s understandable that maintenance tasks often fall by the wayside. Many Marana homeowners follow the mantra of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Everyone is busy and many seemingly more important priorities tend to creep up every month to consume time and money.

However, the last thing you want to worry about when the weather takes a turn toward winter is a broken furnace. Our team at ACS Air Conditioning Services wants to help you be prepared by providing the following furnace maintenance tips.

1.  Change Your Filter Regularly

This is probably the easiest and one of the most important regular maintenance items a Arizona homeowner can perform. Clean filters allow air to circulate through your furnace efficiently and prolong the life of your system. Be sure to check the furnace and filter manufacturers’ recommendations on the frequency of filter changes.

This will also help improve your overall indoor air quality in your home. And, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), furnace filter changes can reduce your energy bill by 5 to 15 percent as well.

2.  Understand Your System and Recommended Maintenance

Although most furnaces in the United States are natural gas or electric, many other heating systems such as propane, geothermal, heat pump, and radiant floor heating are now available.

Understand what kind of system provides your home with its heat, and learn how that particular system needs to be maintained. Some systems, such as radiant floor heating, may not require any maintenance while more common systems like natural gas heating need regular inspections and tune-ups to operate efficiently and dependably.

3. Think Safety First

If you decide to perform any other maintenance tasks beyond basic filter changes, be sure you put safety first. Turn off the power to your furnace before you begin to take things apart to protect yourself from getting injured. Consider hiring a professional to help with any inspection, cleaning, tune-ups, or repairs that are more complicated or you are uncomfortable trying yourself.

4.  Use Your Senses

It’s easy to pass by your furnace every day and not notice it. Take the time to look at your overall system, especially in the fall, to see if you notice anything obviously amiss.

First, if you detect the odor of rotten eggs, call your utility company immediately. That can signify a gas leak, which can be extremely dangerous in your home.

Second, be sure the venting pipe is sitting at the correct angle and is secure. You should check to be sure all tubes are fastened as well. Listen for any unusual sounds or anything else out of the ordinary.

5.  Clean Drainage Tube

If you are running a natural gas or propane furnace, it will create some water as a by-product. Although some moisture becomes steam, you’ll also have some water drain out into a drip pan.

Be sure this drainage tube remains clean and clear. Backed up water can damage your flame sensor. You can use compressed air to clear the tube as well white vinegar to reduce any residual.

6.  Get Tidy

Dirt and dust can hamper the performance of your furnace, so regular cleaning should be part of your annual maintenance. Although you can clean around your unit easily, be careful if you try to clean the inside of your furnace.

Some components are very sensitive and can become damaged if you don’t know what you are doing. You can use a soft brush to gently loosen dust before vacuuming or contact one of our ACS Air Conditioning Services professionals to do the job.

7.  Perform More Thorough Inspections

If you are mechanically inclined, you can continue checking things like your burner flames to be sure they are even and blue. You can check your thermostat wires to be sure they are securely connected. Clean the flame sensor so it can continue to do its job well. This can be done with an emery cloth.

Contact Us for Your Furnace Needs

Even if you can handle many of these maintenance items yourself, it’s a good idea to have one of our trained and experienced professionals come annually and do a thorough inspection and cleaning. It keeps your system’s manufacturer’s warranty intact, as most specify professional maintenance must be performed annually.

Most maintenance services are reasonably priced and much less expensive than an emergency repair. When you are ready to invest in furnace maintenance or have questions about other ways to take care of your heating system, call ACS Air Conditioning Services at 520-230-5668 in Marana, AZ, or request service online for more details.

There are few things more annoying than running out of hot water in the middle of a shower. But do not fret if this happens. It is more than likely an issue with your hot water heater.

It may be something very simple you can take care of yourself. However, some fixes do need the assistance of a professional plumber.

Turn a Cold Mess Into a Hot Time

If you run into this situation, try troubleshooting or give us a call at ACS Air Conditioning Services. One of our experienced plumbers can promptly come out to your Oro Valley home to get your water flowing hot running again.

Focusing on Tank Water Heaters

There are a few options for powering water heaters—electric, gas, propane, and fuel oil. We will take a look at the two most popular types, electric and gas.

For each of these two, there are different steps to diagnose where the problem lies. However, for either type you may first want to:

•  Check if your tank size is adequate for your Arizona home’s water needs.

If you have more than two people living in your home, you may need a larger tank than what you currently have. It takes time to reheat enough water to refill the tank. Should this be the case in your home, wait about 30 minutes and retry the hot water.

If you succeed, it might be time to consider upgrading. Or maybe a tankless water heater would be best for your home. Call ACS Air Conditioning Services to discuss your options.

•  Increase the thermostat temperature by a couple of degrees.

Ideally, you want your water heater temperature set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees or lower if you have small children in your Oro Valley home to avoid burning their sensitive skin). If you perform an adjustment, allow about 30 to 40 minutes for the hot water to return.

If these two options do not produce hot water, read on for more troubleshooting.

But before you continue, please heed this word of caution. Any time you work with electricity, turn off the power to the tank. A strong electrical current is running through there, and electricity is nothing to underestimate. Call one of our ACS Air Conditioning Services plumbing professionals to help if you have any doubts.

Hot Tips for Owners of Electric Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is electric powered, consider these possibilities:

•  Restart your water heater.

Sometimes a power surge can shut down your heater. Turn off the tank for a few minutes and then turn it back on and wait about 30 minutes. If you still have no hot water, this is not the problem.

•  Check the fuse or breaker.

If the fuse has blown or the breaker has been tripped, sometimes it is not obvious this is the problem.

Reset the breaker, even if it does not look tripped. Flip it off, wait about 30 seconds, and then flip it on. If it will not stay on, you need to call a professional electrician.

•  Call one of our ACS Air Conditioning Services professionals.
Sometimes the technical side of electricity mingled with a water repair makes everyone feel more secure if handled by a pro. We can address the issue without causing further damage to other components, like a heating element or thermostat.

•  Install a new water heater.

The average life span of a water heater these days is 10 years. If your tank is close to that age, it may be smarter to invest in a new tank rather than replacing a costly part. After replacing that component, the tank itself could fail, and you would have thrown money out the window.

Purchasing a new water heater with higher efficiency and energy savings can save you money in the long run. ENERGY STAR^® reports higher efficiency water heaters use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models. Since heating water accounts for approximately 15 percent of your Arizona home’s energy use, going with a higher efficiency tank could add up to a nice savings on your utility bill.

A new water heater may also qualify you for an energy tax break or rebate. Check with your Oro Valley area energy company.

Hot Tips for Owners of Gas Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is gas powered, consider these possibilities:

•  Check the pilot light.

Your issue could be as simple as this. Maybe a strong wind down the vent pipe blew the flame out.

Read the instructions affixed to your tank on how to relight the pilot. Many tanks have a button to depress for relighting.

If you are not comfortable with this process, call one of our ACS Air Conditioning Services plumbers to light it. In some cases, a new pilot light assembly is required, in which case a plumber will need to replace it for you anyway.

•  Fix the thermocouple.

After you light the pilot and are certain the flame does not remain lighted, the thermocouple may be at fault. A thermocouple is a sensor that measures temperature. As a safety precaution, it will shut off the gas flow if the pilot goes out.

If you are capable of replacing this yourself, it is a low-cost fix. If you are unsure about your level of competency, call a ACS Air Conditioning Services professional in to replace it for you.

•  Check the gas supply.

Occasionally your heater may not be getting gas. If after you check to be sure the gas valve is turned on and you do not see a flame or smell gas, this could indicate the problem is the gas supply.

Be sure the valve is open and assess the gas line. Is anything leaning against it or does it have a twist or kink in it? If nothing appears out of the ordinary, call your gas company to see if they are working on the gas line in your area or if your gas has been turned off. If the answer to both of these is no, you need to call one of our plumbers.

•  Install a new water heater.

The life span for a gas water heater is typically 10 years, just like an electric water heater. Unfortunately, it may be time for a replacement. Call ACS Air Conditioning Services to discuss what type and size tank would be best for you.

We Are Your Water Heater Experts

At ACS Air Conditioning Services, our certified plumbers can help with whatever water heater issue you may have. Talk to us about a new installation or replacement, a repair, or water heater maintenance. In the case of no hot water, we are here in Oro Valley, Arizona, to help. Give us a call at 520-230-5668 or request service online today.

Though air conditioners are a major part of modern life, they hold many secrets few people know about.

Luckily, our team at ACS Air Conditioning Services is ready to spill the beans.

Air conditioners have come a long way since they were first invented. Present-day AC units use 30 to 50 percent less electricity to create the same amount of cooling as their 1970s predecessors, according to the US Department of Energy (DOE). Advances in the past 10 years have been significant. In fact, by switching out your decade-old AC, you could subtract 20 to 40 percent from your utility bill.

But wait—we’ve compiled even more fun facts! If Jeopardy! ever makes “Cooling” a category, and you’re a contestant, we want to help you answer with confidence. You’ll make your friends back in Arizona proud.

Read further to learn six staggering secrets about air conditioners.

Your AC Does Not Create Cool Air

AC units pull heat and humidity out of the air, flushing it out through the outdoor condenser and condensate drain. Your AC cools down your Marana home by subtracting hot air—it doesn’t actually add anything.

Who Invented the Air Conditioner?

In 1902, New York engineer Willis Carrier drew up plans for a humidity control device. For years, Carrier was pining for a way to control indoor climate. Then, one day on a foggy train ride through Pittsburg, an idea came to him: he could subtract humidity from air by moving it through water to make fog.

We Need Our AC for More Than Just Home Comfort

Refrigerators, computers, modern shopping centers, and countless other everyday luxuries would not be possible without Carrier’s invention. The ability to control indoor climate changed the game, paving the way for generations to come.

Your AC Is Great for Indoor Air Quality

Less humidity means less mold and mildew, which can trigger respiratory symptoms for allergic residents. Your central air system also contains a static air filter, which catches irritants like dust, debris, pollen, and dander. Because of these features, running your AC can improve indoor air quality (IAQ).

You Need to Change Your Air Filter!

Remember to change your filter every 90 days or so—or clean it once a month if you have a ductless system. Over time, dust particles clump and begin to stifle airflow. This can make your equipment overwork itself, leading to higher utility bills and even damage overtime. A bit of diligence goes a long way.

Seasonal Maintenance Is a Must

Give your AC some TLC. With the hustle and bustle of summertime, many homeowners forget to schedule their seasonal maintenance visits. During a maintenance call, one of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) specialists can identify hidden issues and correct them before they turn into costly repairs. You’ll greatly reduce the risk of a breakdown on a sweltering summer’s day.

Need Cooling Service? Call ACS Air Conditioning Services

Located in Marana, AZ, we have a team of HVAC experts ready to meet your heating and cooling needs. To set up an installation, repair, or maintenance visit, call 520-230-5668 or simply request service online.

Very few central air conditioners (AC) are whisper-silent. A certain amount of noise coming from your ductwork is not uncommon. It is normal to hear the blowers spinning, among other parts of the cooling process.

Additionally, air conditioning equipment produces more sounds as it ages—not always because of a mechanical problem. However, if you’ve owned your unit for a decade or longer, it might be time for a replacement.

Fortunately, air conditioning units have become much more efficient in recent years. You can cut energy costs up to 40 percent by upgrading your unit if it is 10 years or older, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Have an ACS Air Conditioning Services expert evaluate your air conditioner today—we’re always happy to help our Arizona customers save money and get the most value from your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

Plus, our financing plans help you purchase the HVAC equipment your family deserves! Now, let’s learn about AC noises.

Air Conditioning Noises and What They Mean

While some noise is normal, keep an ear out for unusual sounds. Remember, it’s best to catch problems early. If you think your Marana air conditioning unit needs repair, give us a call right away.

Here are some common noises and what they could mean for your air conditioner:

Popping

Popping means there may be an issue with your ventilation system. It usually points to an airflow obstruction inside your ductwork. Like many HVAC mishaps, you can help avoid this issue with seasonal maintenance.

Rattling

Rattling likely means a part in your AC has come loose. On some occasions, it’s a harmless problem. For instance, a stray nut or bolt may have fallen off your equipment. Or, it might mean a small object fell into a floor vent. On other occasions, it could point to a more serious issue—such as a loose compressor, which is costly to replace. If you hear rattling, it’s always the safest bet to call your HVAC specialist.

Grinding

If you hear the sound of metal grinding together, this could indicate a problem. The noise could be coming from a failing fan motor. Alternately, it may mean a bearing has become worn. Either way, have an HVAC specialist look at it as soon as possible.

Hissing

Hissing coming from your ducts may mean you’re experiencing a refrigerant leak. You may also notice an odd chemical smell. This problem needs to be addressed by a professional right away.

Maintenance Matters

Preventative maintenance plays a vital role in the efficiency of all your HVAC equipment. Schedule your air conditioning tune-up in the early spring and a furnace tune-up in the fall. That way, you prepare your system for the season. Plus, you give our techs a chance to uncover a minor issue before it turns into a costly repair. Call us today to schedule a tune-up.

And be sure to ask about our maintenance agreements tailored to save you money on parts, labor, and repairs!

Call Today for Professional Heating and Cooling Service

At ACS Air Conditioning Services, our team of certified experts can service all your HVAC needs. Whether you need installation, repair, or maintenance services, we have only the most qualified technicians in Marana, AZ. Call us today at 520-230-5668, or request service online.

Sometimes, a simple, elegant piece of technology can deliver more with less. Ductless mini splits are a triple threat—compact wall units that generate heating, cooling, and ventilation. No ducts required, and no dull whirring noises—they operate in near silence.

Also, ductless units use minimal energy. Typically, you spend up to 30 percent less to cool and up to 60 percent less to heat when you upgrade from your traditional air system, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Just about every Oro Valley customer who made the switch has something positive to say about these appliances. We’ve performed installations for energy-conscious families and owners of historic homes where ductwork isn’t an option. Some homeowners are just plain fed up with energy loss and repair costs from their leaky ducts.

No matter what piqued your curiosity, the team at ACS Air Conditioning Services is glad you’re here. Mini splits are an excellent option to explore if you want an alternative to traditional air conditioners, furnaces, or heat pumps. Going ductless is a smart investment that benefits your home long-term, potentially for decades.

No Ducts? How Does It Work?

Ductless units pack powerful heating and cooling technology into a small setup. They rely on two central modules—the evaporator (indoors) and the compressor (outdoors). You control the temperature using a remote controller, or on your mobile device when coupled with a smart thermostat.

The evaporator resembles a modern rectangular light fixture. It mounts easily to your wall or ceiling. The evaporator harvests heat and humidity from your home, sending it outside. Then, using slotted vents, the evaporator evenly distributes the treated air through the room it’s installed in.

A small refrigerant line connects it to the outdoor compressor, a small box with a fan. On hot days, the compressor releases discarded heat that the evaporator collected. On cool days, the process works in reverse, expelling concentrated heat into your home, like a heat pump.

What Are the Benefits of Going Ductless?

Here are just a few advantages:

1. Energy Savings

Are you looking to cut down on your electricity usage? With up to 30 percent less energy use on cooling and 60 percent less on heating, it’s one of the most cost-effective products on the market. Lower utility bills are a major plus. Additionally, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, helping to preserve Arizona’s clean air for the next generation.

2. Easy to Maintain

A simplified setup means fewer parts to keep track of. They are also much easier to access, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. To top it off, removing ducts from the equation eliminates the need for duct cleaning and inspections.

3. Less Noise Pollution

Most furnaces and AC units produce a humming or rattling, with a distinctive “shudder” at the end of each cycle. These noisy interruptions can break your concentration as you work or keep you awake while you lay in bed. With just a fan and an evaporator, ductless units make your home a much quieter place.

4. Versatility

With all-in-one heating and cooling, you have perfect temperature control at your fingertips. You also have less machinery to keep track of.

5. Individualized Temperature Control

Do you live in a family-sized home? Install multiple modules, and each family member can have it their way—no more arguing over the thermostat. You can blast cool air during your yoga session without giving anyone else a case of the shivers. You can also save energy by switching off the air in empty rooms.

Call ACS Air Conditioning Services To Make Your Ductless Dream a Reality!

Want to learn more about innovative heating and cooling solutions for your Oro Valley, AZ home? ACS Air Conditioning Services’s team of certified HVAC experts is eager to assist. We install the only highest quality equipment and perform stellar maintenance and repairs. Call us at 520-230-5668 or request service online.

If you are in the market for a new heat pump in Oro Valley, efficiency is probably a key factor in your search. The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has a universal ranking system for heating and cooling units that serves to help.

Deciphering and Decoding

You might have seen assorted abbreviations like HSPF2 or SEER2, but what do they actually mean? Well, here is a guide to determining heat pump efficiency.

What Is HSPF2?

HSPF2 stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. This rating represents the number of heat units produced (BTUs––British Thermal Units) by the total amount of electricity used throughout a season. Generally speaking, the higher a heat pump’s HSPF, the more efficient it is.

The ENERGY STAR^® program has set a minimum HSPF of 8.1 for single-package equipment, which is a traditional heating and cooling unit. For mini split configurations, also known as ductless systems, the minimum HSPF2 is 8.5.

What Is SEER2?

SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is essentially the equivalent of HSPF but for cooling. A system’s SEER2 rating is determined by the amount of cooling power (BTUs) divided by the amount of energy (watt-hours) used within one season.

A higher SEER2 means a more efficient heat pump. The minimum ENERGY STAR-qualifying SEER2 is 14.3 for residential, air-source, split-system heat pumps.

Which Heat Pump Should I Get?

Generally speaking, if you live in a cooler climate, HSPF2 should have more weight in your decision than SEER2 since you will likely run the system on this setting more frequently. In hotter climates, the SEER2 rating becomes more significant.

However, it is important to note both these rating systems refer to a heat pump operating under optimal conditions. If a heat pump is not the right size for your Oro Valley home, you can run into all sorts of problems.

An oversized unit may short cycle, potentially increasing your energy bill and leaving you uncomfortable. An undersized unit will run too long, wearing down parts faster and using more electricity than expected.

The best way to get the most efficient heat pump is to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our ACS Air Conditioning Services professionals. We will perform the necessary heat-load calculations to determine which heat pumps will perform ideally in your Arizona space. Out of these options, you can choose the best one to meet your efficiency standards.

Contact Us for All Your Heat Pump Needs

At ACS Air Conditioning Services, we are pleased to install heat pumps in Oro Valley, AZ, and surrounding regions. Call us today at 520-230-5668 or request service online for any questions about HSPF2 or SEER2.

It’s about to heat up here in Marana. Make sure your air conditioner (AC) is primed for the Arizona summer heat rays by scheduling a seasonal maintenance visit.

Taking care of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment keeps it at top-rate efficiency. It starts with changing your HVAC air filter at least every 90 days. An air conditioning unit with a consistently clean filter uses up to 15 percent less energy, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Plus, your filter catches dust and debris, creating healthy indoor air quality (IAQ).

Allow our team at ACS Air Conditioning Services to handle the seasonal maintenance for all your heating and cooling equipment. Schedule a tune-up to restore your AC and enjoy the maximum mileage and efficiency from your investment.

Why Schedule AC Maintenance?

Maintaining your AC is a critical part of home ownership. Just like your car, your cooling system is a complex machine that gets lots of use. That’s why most manufacturers require maintenance as part of the warranty policy.

Seasonal check-ups keep your equipment working efficiently and help it to last longer. Additionally, your HVAC specialist will be able to catch minor faults and make corrections before they turn into costly repairs.

What Happens During a Maintenance Visit?

Here are a few maintenance items from our checklist:

1. Clean off the coils

The evaporator and condenser coils cycle liquid refrigerant, facilitating the cooling process. Over time, these components naturally collect dust and debris. If the coils don’t get scrubbed, your AC can’t correctly cool your Arizona home.

2. Kill and remove mildew and mold

Your AC pulls moisture out of the air and converts it to water. From there, the water travels down the condensate drain. Over time, the damp environment may attract mildew and mold. Your specialist must clean the condensate drain to avoid clogging and protect your air quality.

3. Replace broken parts

When a small part of your AC breaks, it may not be noticeable right away. However, if left unchecked, it can eventually cause a chain reaction leading to a much costlier repair. Your Marana HVAC specialist will check for minor issues like chipped fins or missing screws.

4. Check refrigerant levels

Leaks happen when the refrigerant line gets punctured or comes loose. This can prevent your equipment from cooling all altogether. Additionally, the liquid can cause damage to other parts of your AC. Your specialist will test refrigerant levels, refilling, and patching leaks if necessary.

5. Check airflow and inspect for leaky ducts

Leaky ducts are a top contributor to high utility bills. Your specialist will use equipment to pinpoint leaks and see whether duct sealing or insulation is necessary.

Call ACS Air Conditioning Services For All Your Heating and Cooling Needs

Need service you can count on? ACS Air Conditioning Services is always ready to assist our customers in Marana, AZ, and nearby communities. For reliable HVAC care, call 520-230-5668 or request service online.

Summertime is the season for rest and relaxation—except when pollen decides to crash your party.

If you’re afflicted with seasonal allergies, you’re not alone. As many as 60 million Americans have allergic rhinitis part-time or year-round, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Luckily, a perfect antidote is already installed in your Arizona home. A well-maintained air conditioner can boost your indoor air quality (IAQ), reducing symptoms. Your AC has a filter that catches airborne irritants like dust, pollen, dander. It also balances humidity and provides ventilation, reducing the likelihood of mold growth.

Looking for additional methods to stop allergens from inhabiting your home? ACS Air Conditioning Services has a team of home comfort experts ready to find the perfect solution for your lifestyle. Make your home a sanctuary—spend less time restocking your tissues and more time doing what you love. Call us for a free consultation today.

How Your AC Protects From Allergens

Wherever the wind blows —indoor allergens seem to follow. Fortunately, your AC has a built-in air filter. When air passes through, tiny particles stick to the filter’s microfibers. You can determine a filter’s effectiveness using its minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). The higher the MERV, the more particles it catches.

Running your central air system also helps discourage mold and mildew growth. On a sticky Arizona day, high humidity levels create damp surfaces for mold to feast on. Your AC cools by extracting moisture from the air. The vapors get converted to water, which exits down the condensate drain. The ventilation from your ductwork also makes surfaces dry quicker, giving mold fewer chances to multiply.

Why AC Maintenance Is Important For Allergies

For clean air, you must stay on top of maintenance. That means changing or cleaning your air filter once a month. Once your air filter becomes clogged, it can’t do its job any longer. Additionally, the stifled airflow can cause a long list of serious mechanical problems.

Seasonal maintenance visits are also a must. There could be a number of hidden issues impacting your air quality. Your ACS Air Conditioning Services specialist will perform a thorough sweep to check for them. For instance, your condensate drain could be clogged, creating standing water and mold growth. Duct problems like leaks, obstructions or pest infestations can also reduce IAQ. Your specialist will also monitor refrigerant levels to make sure no chemical fumes are escaping into your home.

Concerned About Your IAQ? Here’s How To Keep It A-OK.

• Arrange seasonal maintenance visits for your AC and heater (furnace, heat pump, or boiler). This allows your HVAC specialist to perform vital cleaning, restoration, and inspection that ensures your home is circulating healthy air.

• Replace your air filter at least once monthly. Or, clean it once per month if you have a reusable filter.

• Pay attention to any noticeable mold growth or unusual smells around your ducts. If you suspect your ducts have a mold growth problem, schedule a cleaning immediately.

•   Make sure to close all windows before you run the AC. Operating with the windows open can cause moisture buildup.

• Boost your IAQ with an air purifier, air scrubber, or UV light. These high-tech options catch even tinier particles and break down harmful viruses, bacteria, and mold.

• Replace older technology. AC systems have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years and tend to produce patchier ventilation as they age. If you’ve had yours for a decade or longer and it’s showing signs of deterioration, consider upgrading.

Call ACS Air Conditioning Services For Quick and Reliable AC Service

Need help with home heating or cooling? Our team of certified HVAC experts is close by in Marana, Arizona ready to perform an installation, repair, or maintenance inspection. Call us today at 520-230-5668 or set up your visit online.

At the height of summer, the weather can get quite sticky here in Arizona.

Hot days feel much less bearable when accompanied by humidity. That’s because increased humidity makes it harder for your sweat to evaporate. Our staff at ACS Air Conditioning Services reminds our neighbors to stay safe this summer. Monitor weather advisories and drink plenty of water, and pay attention to how you feel when it’s hot out.

Humidity isn’t just hard on your body—it’s hard on your Oro Valley home. Damp surfaces are a picnic party for unwelcome guests like mildew, mold, cockroaches, and mites. Excessive humidity weakens wood and leads to rotting. It also lowers your indoor air quality (IAQ).

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends an indoor humidity range between between 30 and 50 percent. Experts consider levels above 60 percent cause for concern.

To keep your house safe and comfortable on the balmiest of days, here are 10 tips from our team:

1. Increase and Optimize Air Ventilation 

More airflow means drier surfaces and fewer chances for mold to grow. Consider switching your thermostat fan setting from Auto to On to create constant airflow. Crack more doors in your home. Additionally, move any household items that may be obstructing your vents.

2. Take Shorter Showers

Make your morning shower short and sweet. You’ll save water and prevent your bathroom from becoming overrun with mildew. For added protection, turn on your bathroom vent during and after your shower to reduce humidity.

3. Use a Clothing Line

Take advantage of the warm weather to dry your clothes outdoors. Your dryer creates lots of humid air, particularly when it’s not properly ventilated.

4. Cook Carefully

Cooking food indoors can add to humidity levels. Before cranking on the burners, be sure your range-hood ventilator is open. Keep pots and pans hooded whenever possible. It’s also the perfect season for outdoor grilling.

5. Watch Out for Exposed Dirt

Your basement or crawlspace may be revealing a bit too much. Uncovered earth spots are common perpetrators of indoor humidity problems. Seek out any exposed earth surfaces, cover them with weighted material and seal them off. Also, be sure the area is well-ventilated.

6. Keep a Clean Chimney

If the chimney for your fireplace or water heater hasn’t been cleaned in a while, it could be contributing to humidity. If you think this may be the case, contact our specialists to have it cleaned right away. In addition to hindering airflow, clogged chimneys are a major fire and air quality hazard.

7. Get a Dehumidifier

Is your basement musty, no matter what you try? Time to dehumidify. Dehumidifiers convert moisture to water, restoring your air quality. Invest in a portable, or have one of our specialists fit your ductwork with a whole-house dehumidifier.

8. Close Off Areas With Lots of Moisture

Do you have an indoor greenhouse? Or an indoor pool? Be sure rooms that produce lots of humid air are properly sealed and insulated, so they don’t disturb the rest of your home.

9. Protect from Leaks and Flooding

Be sure you have sump pump maintenance performed annually. Clean your gutters. Additionally, seek out leaky culprits like pipes or water heaters. Remember—even a tiny drip can cause major water damage over time.

10. Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Your central AC system removes moisture from the air, converting it to liquid water. However, poor maintenance hinders its ability to provide you protection. Change your air filter once a month, and schedule seasonal maintenance to avoid mechanical problems.

Schedule Service Today!

ACS Air Conditioning Services hopes our list helps you this summer. Remember to schedule your air conditioner tune-up in early spring—and your furnace tune-up in the fall. Call our Oro Valley, Arizona office today at 520-230-5668 or request service online.