Central Refrigeration Owner Offers Tips for AC Efficiency

McKENZIE (July 2) — On Thursday, the fourth consecutive day of extreme heat and humidity in northwest Tennessee, Central Refrigeration owner Zack Cox spoke to The Banner and shared some tips to maximize the efficiency of residential central air conditioning.

The heat wave is expected to continue into Friday with a high of 96 degrees projected in McKenzie. However, chances of precipitation and even severe weather increase over the next few days and will likely push daily high temperatures down to the high 90s over the weekend and into the high 80s throughout next week.

Cox led with the two most effective things one can do to increase the lifespan of a central air system: change the filter and have units maintenanced by a professional.

He also recommended rinsing the unit's coils with a hose and warned against using a pressure washer, which he said can hinder air flow. In addition, a high-pressure spray can cause a coil to be impacted, which further reduces efficiency and can cause compressors and capacitors to fail.

Cox said, "A dirty outdoor coil can lead to a 30-plus percent reduction of energy efficiency."

He warned that dirty filters allow blower wheels to become matted with debris and dirt. "One-eighth of an inch of debris can reduce efficiency by 20 percent."

The HVAC professional offered a plethora of small household habits that can add up to a real impact on the thermostat. Keep blinds closed and use drapes. Grill outdoors instead of heating up appliances in the kitchen. Dry clothes at night or hang them to air dry. Make sure ceiling fans are turning counter-clockwise.

"Basically," he said, "anything that puts off heat, refrain from using it if you can."

Humidity levels are a big culprit in heat leading to misery around the clock. Humidity increases at night, and Cox noted that when your AC unit isn't running at night, outside humidity infiltrates the home. He recommended utilizing a dehumidifier to combat this effect.

Cox said that many companies will be bombarded with service calls this time of year, as much as tripling when the temperature reaches 95 degrees.

But he says he's been able to keep that under control with his customers thanks to Central's maintenance program, which offers routine servicing of units for a small monthly fee.

Central Refrigeration is located at 47 E. Bruce Street in McKenzie. The phone number is 731-352-7900.