You can count on hot, humid weather during Indiana summers. Hopefully, you can also count on your air conditioner to work! Invariably, our hot weather air conditioner service calls increase by mid-June across Westfield, Zionsville, Noblesville, Fishers, Carmel and the north side of Indianapolis. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions our technicians are answering about AC repairs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON INDIANA HOT WEATHER AIR CONDITIONER SERVICE
Is it okay if my air conditioner runs non-stop?
Non-stop AC running is not necessarily an indication of failure. In Central Indiana, air conditioners are sized for normal summer conditions of 15 to 20 degrees warmer outside than inside. So if it gets 20 degrees warmer outside than your thermostat setting, you will most likely see your AC running all the time. However, even in extreme weather, if you can cool your home 20 degrees less than say 100 degrees, you will still maintain a reasonably comfortable temperature for mid and late afternoon. And then by evening it should start to catch up. If you cannot maintain at least 15 degrees cooler than the outdoor temperature, contact us to diagnose your AC not cooling problem.
Is my air conditioner size too small?
It could be, but do not judge your AC size on the hottest day of the year. In Indiana, 95 degrees outside temperature is very rare. Normal is more like 88 to 90 for a hot day. If your AC will not maintain 75 degrees inside when it’s 88 degrees outside, it may be too small or it may not be working properly. A Precision Comfort Systems technician can determine this and tell you the truth. In the meantime, check our our blog post on how to estimate what size air conditioner you need.
Do I need a new high-efficiency air conditioner or just an AC repair?
We try our best to get the full life out of your current air conditioner. AC life expectancy is about 13 to 17 years (average 15 years). Some repairs can make a big difference and can be very much worth the cost of AC repair service. When you need an honest opinion on when it’s time to upgrade to a new, higher efficiency, more dependable air conditioner, you can trust the HVAC company your neighbors trust (hint: that’s us). Check out our Google reviews.
What are some easy ways to save on air conditioning costs?
Here are two very easy and free AC tips.
- On bright hot summer days, close the drapes or blinds on the sunny side of the home. Solar heat can account for 50% of your AC costs and air conditioning load.
- If you are using your air conditioning today and you plan on using it tomorrow, do not open your home tonight. The night air is cool, but it is still humid. Summer humidity in Indiana can cause your AC bills to double.
Where should I set my air conditioning thermostat temperature?
This is a tough one. Summer comfort is very subjective for each of us. The first thing to note is that your home thermostat(s) may not be perfectly accurate, so do not get too set on an exact number. Cool to your personal comfort level but keep these things in mind
- You normally only have the ability to cool 20 degrees from the outside temperature
- Each degree you lower the thermostat could add 10% to 15% to your air conditioning bill.
- If you wait until late afternoon to “cool down” the home, the AC may not be capable of reducing the home temperature during peak conditions. Learn more about the effects of turning on and off the air conditioner in Indiana during the summer.
If your AC fails, call Precision Comfort Systems! We offer much more than AC service repair. When you’re having comfort problems, we offer an honest evaluation of your heating and cooling system as well as your entire home. Our trained technicians have the experience to find your problem, and it’s not always a new system. And don’t forget, we offer free second opinions!