There is no exact answer for how long your system should run during each cycle. The average system is sized to remove the heat from your home as fast as it comes in, on an 85° day. Therefore, ideally, on an 85° day the system should be able to keep up with the incoming heat, but not gain on it and be able to turn off. The cooler it is below 85°, the more the system will cycle on and off. Same applies as it gets colder on average we design the systems to heat your home at 23°. As the temperature rises above 83° or falls below 23° you will likely start to see longer run times until the unit runs continually and the system will not reach the temperature on the thermostat. The Washington State Energy Code requires we size our system based on local design temperature such as the above to heat a home to 70° and cool to 78°.

Every time your system starts up, it will use a lot of electricity and not produce much heating or cooling. Usually a system that is too small to cool the home is more economical to run but delivers less comfort. Even though it runs nonstop, it will usually consume less power than a larger system that cycles on and off. As a rule of thumb, a unit that is either on or off is less expensive than one cycling on and off.

Obviously the time of year becomes a big factor for desired temperature settings. In the summer months the average temperature setting is 78°-80°, in the winter 70°-72° seems to be the most common setting. Remember, when leaving your house, try to avoid drastic temperature changes. Do not set your temperature back more than 5°; this will cause your unit to work harder to achieve the desired temperature setting.

Different programmable thermostats offer many different features. However, because they are electronic, they are all more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. With programmable thermostats you can control the temperature in your home at different times of day without ever touching your thermostat. Because everything is automatic, you will never forget to change the setting on your own.

For optimum efficiency and filtration, we recommend that you replace your disposable filters at least once a month. If you have washable filters, they should be cleaned once a month.

The most important maintenance you can do is to change your filters regularly. Ground mounted outdoor units need to be kept clear of debris, clutter; weeds or landscaping that can grow too close and reduce the airflow to the unit. Also, keep pets away from the unit because pet urine can cause expensive damage. Use caution with a weed trimmer around the unit to prevent damaging control wiring. Any additional maintenance should only be performed by qualified personnel.