Performance Edge™ Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat allows you to fine-tune the operation of your heating system so that you don’t waste energy by running the system when heat isn’t required. You can set a programmable thermostat to turn the heat down to 61 degrees while you sleep, bring it up to 68 degrees a few minutes before you rise, turn it back down when you leave for work, and return it to a comfortable level just before you come home. Using a programmable thermostat is one of the most effective steps you can take. AFUE of New System AFUE of existing System 80% 85% 90% 95% 50% $37 $41 $44 $47 55% $31 $35 $38 $42 60% $25 $29 $33 $37 65% $19 $23 $27 $32 70% $12 $18 $22 $26 75% $6 $11 $17 $21 80% $6 $11 $16 85% $6 $11 If you have an idea of how much it will cost to install a new system, use the chart below to calculate how much money you are likely to save each year with a more efficient system, and what your return on investment is likely to be. Remember, when fuel prices go up, your savings will go up. 1. Calculate Dollar Savings per $100 of Annual Fuel Cost  To determine savings from the table to the right, find the horizontal row corresponding to the old system's AFUE, then choose the number from that row that is in the vertical column corresponding to the new system's AFUE. That number is the projected dollar savings per hundred dollars of existing fuel bills. For example, if your present AFUE is 65% and you plan to install a high-efficiency natural gas system with an AFUE of 90%, then the projected saving is $27 per $100. If, say, your annual fuel bill is $1,300, then the total yearly savings should be about $27 x 13 = $351. 2. Calculate Return on Investment ROI = first year savings ÷ installed cost example:  ROI = $351 ÷ $2,500 = 0.14 = 14% Courtesy of American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy Summer is soon approaching! Are you ready for the hot weather? Is your air conditioning unit? Give us a call to have a NATE certified technician inspect and clean your air conditioning unit. Check out our specials page for discounts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook for weekly specials. The best way to keep your air conditioning cooling and running efficiently this summer is to get a precision tune up. A clean air conditioner can save you up to 10% of your electric bill. If you are looking for more savings on your electric bill, consult ComEd’s website how you can save $10/month by cycling your air conditioner. Click on the following website https://www.comed.com/sites/HomeSavings/Pages/accycling.aspx  Do It Yourself Tips: • Make sure you unplug all units before touching any parts of your hvac system. Note that there can be several power sources and you should shut off your electrical panel to be cautious! • Keep your outdoor unit free of debris. If you keep grass clippings, leaves, shrubbery and debris away from your outdoor unit, it should only require only a basic maintenance clean & check to operate properly. • Check the base pan (under the unit) occasionally and remove debris, to help the unit drain correctly. • If the outdoor coil becomes dirty, use a brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the surface. • Make sure your outdoor unit stays in a level position. If the support for your outdoor unit shifts or settles and the unit is no longer level, it will retain moisture and not drain properly. • Check outdoor unit for ice build up - if you see ice disconnect the unit and call us immediately!