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Overview
The 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System is one of the most high performing, versatile, and simple heating and cooling products available from the industry today. This is a central heat pump that can cool better than most air conditioners, heat better than virtually any other heat pump, compete with traditional furnaces in cold weather, and reduce energy consumption thanks to its sophisticated internal controls. It even comes with new technology that makes HVAC installation faster and simpler than a traditional heat pump. Basically, the MrCool Universal has it all.
But what is in that "all" exactly? Let's start with the installation of the 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System. Normal heat pump split system installation will require an HVAC tech to carefully cut the refrigerant line set to fit, charge with nitrogen, braze the connections, vacuum the lines, and then, finally, charge with an appropriate refrigerant like R-410a. It is an effective process, but it can take many hours to do properly and requires specialized tools.
MrCool Universal Heat Pump Continues to Heat in Temperatures As Low As -22
The 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System is also one of the most effective heat pumps when it comes to performance. The variable-speed DC inverter compressor inside the condenser can deliver high SEER performance and superior production capability. What that really means is that it can deliver maximum cooling and heating at very high and very low temperatures. It will produce 100% cooling at 110 degrees Fahrenheit, up to 72% heating at -5 degrees, and continue producing heat down to minus 22. Most conventional heat pumps begin losing efficiency below 32 degrees.
No-Vac Quick Connect Line Set Compatible!
No cutting, no brazing, no vacuuming, and no charging is required when using the MrCool Universal Pre-Charged Quick Connect Line Set with the 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System. Traditional installation is available for this product, but for those who want something simpler and easier, we highly recommend the No-Vac option. Combining the MrCool Universal split with the No-Vac lines means that installation can be reduced by hours, and the installer will need only half the tools required for a typical installation. This style of install saves time, money, and headache.
Purchase the MrCool Universal Quick Connect Line Set Here
And, of course, MrCool, an industry leader, protects your investment with a 10-Year Parts Limited Warranty for the 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System. Make sure you register within 60 days of installation to guarantee your protection.
MrCool Universal Heat Pump Replaces Need for Gas Furnace
4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Condenser - MDUO18048060
The 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Condenser is a cutting edge HVAC technology from an innovation leader. The sophisticated tech inside this unit both regulates the temperature of your home and controls the compressor motor speed simultaneously. It eliminates extreme fluctuations in the operating load and extends the unit’s life.
- 4 Ton Mode: 18 SEER, 5 Ton Mode: 17 SEER
- Ultra Wide Operating Temperature Range
- Gas Furnace Not Required
- Compatible with any third party air handler and thermostat including WiFi/Nest/Honeywell
- Rapid cooling and heating
- Internal Fan Blade Creates Low Noise
- Factory Charged R410
- ETL and AHRI certified
4 to 5 Ton MrCool Universal Air Handler - MDUI18048060
The 4 to 5 Ton MrCool Universal Air Handler is designed for maximum compatibility with the MrCool Universal 4 to 5 Ton Condenser. Properly paired, this air handler can deliver superior home comfort performance in summer, winter, and every season in between. It is ideal for homeowners who want to boost operating efficiency while reducing their dependence on increasingly expensive resources like heating oil. Plus, it is both a quiet and safe solution.
- 4 Ton Mode: 18 SEER, 5 Ton Mode: 17 SEER
- Ultra Wide Operating Temperature Range
- Quick Connect, Flared, & Sweat fittings allow for universal installation
- Multi-positional installation (compatible with upflow and horizontal applications)
- Accommodates up to a 20kW Backup Heat Strip
- Factory Charged R410
- ETL and AHRI certified
Warranty Terms
For a full description of all warranties applicable to this product as well as individual manufacturer requirements, please review the manufacturer's consumer brochure and/or product warranty documents. Online warranty registration must be completed within 60 days of installation. Due to state laws, online registration is not required in California or Quebec. Call for warranty availability on scratch & dent and surplus items.
Installation of any product must comply with all applicable codes and regulations. The service of a certified and trained electrical technician may be required for the installation process.
Specifications
| Model | MDU18048060 |
|---|---|
| UPC | 810035931114 |
| AHRI Number | 205756414 |
| Bundle Avg Coverage Area | 2,000 - 2,400 Sq Ft |
| Bundle Cooling Capacity | 4 Ton, 5 Ton |
| Bundle Cooling Efficiency | 18 SEER |
| EER | 11 |
| Heat Pump Efficiency (HSPF) | 10.5 |
| Series | Universal |
| Region Compatibility | Nationwide |
| California Residents | see Prop 65 WARNING |
MDUO18048060 Specifications:
| Model | MDUO18048060 |
|---|---|
| UPC | 810512032938 |
| Avg Coverage Area | 2,000 - 2,500 Sq Ft |
| Compressor | Inverter |
| Cooling Capacity | 3.5 Ton, 4 Ton, 5 Ton |
| Electrical Phase | 1-Phase |
| Heat Pump Efficiency (HSPF) | 10 |
| Line Set Connection Type | Quick Connect, Flared, or Sweat |
| Liquid Line Size | 3/8 inch |
| Max Overcurrent Protection | 45 amps |
| Primary Heating Capacity | 48,000 - 60,000 BTU |
| Product Height (in) | 56.3 |
| Product Length (in) | 12.6 |
| Product Width (in) | 37 |
| Refrigerant | R-410a |
| Cooling Efficiency | 18 SEER |
| Series | Universal |
| Suction Line Size | 3/4 inch |
| System Application Type | Central Split Systems |
| Voltage | 240 |
| Warranty | 10 Year Parts |
| Weight (lbs) | 328.0000 |
| Region Compatibility | Nationwide |
MDUI18048060 Specifications:
| Model | MDUI18048060 |
|---|---|
| UPC | 810512032990 |
| Air Flow Direction | Horizontal, Upflow |
| Configuration | Floor Mounted |
| Blower Motor | High Efficiency |
| Cooling Capacity | 3.5 Ton, 4 Ton, 5 Ton |
| Electrical Phase | 1-Phase |
| Heat Strip Compatibility | Up to 20 kW |
| Line Set Connection Type | Quick Connect, Flared, or Sweat |
| Liquid Line Size | 3/8 inch |
| Max Overcurrent Protection | 15 amps |
| Product Height (in) | 57 |
| Product Length (in) | 21.32 |
| Product Width (in) | 24.8 |
| Series | Universal |
| Suction Line Size | 3/4 inch |
| System Application Type | Central Split Systems |
| Voltage | 240 |
| Warranty | 10 Year Parts |
| Weight (lbs) | 202.8000 |
Accessories
Thermostats We Recommend
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Equipment Pads We Recommend
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Copper Line Sets We Recommend
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3/8" x 3/4" MrCool Quick Connect Pre-Charged Line Set for Universal Split System
ITEM: HA20948 MODEL: NVXX-3834
Electric Heat Strips We Recommend
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15kW Electric Heat Kit for MrCool Universal Air Handler - Circuit Breaker
ITEM: HA12129 MODEL: MHK15U
HVAC Parts & Accessories We Recommend
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MrCool Quick Connect Line Set Coupler Kit for Universal Split System
ITEM: HA20844 MODEL: NVCOUPLER-3834
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MrCool Flare to Sweat Lineset Adapter Kit for Universal Air Handler
ITEM: HA20952 MODEL: WF-3834K
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Diverstech SpeediChannel 6" Line Set Cover - 18 ft
ITEM: HA21578 MODEL: 230-D6W,230-CP6W,230-WC6W,230-FB6W
Reviews
Q & A
Do you have questions about this product?
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How many square feet would a 5 ton unit cover
Does the set require an electrical heat kit to be able to heat? Or is the heat kit meant for additional heat when it's really cold?
Is there a down flow system?
Is this truly a no vac system?
Precharged line set..... but what about the rest of the lines inside condenser and air handler units? Are they vacuumed and sealed at the factory? If not factory vacuumed would that not be considered a source of contamination?
Trying to understand. Thanks
Precharged line set..... but what about the rest of the lines inside condenser and air handler units? Are they vacuumed and sealed at the factory? If not factory vacuumed would that not be considered a source of contamination?
Trying to understand. Thanks
What is CFM for 4 ton set up and 5 ton set up
Does this come with a liquid and suction line?
Will this unit be able to keep up heating 2400sq ft home kansas?
WHAT IS THE DELIVERY TIME ON MR COOL 5 TON UNIVERSAL HEAT PUMP MY PHONE NO 850-499-7354.
I HAVE CALLED AND NO RETURN CALL. HAVE A FEW QUESTIONS PRIOR TO ORDERING.
I HAVE CALLED AND NO RETURN CALL. HAVE A FEW QUESTIONS PRIOR TO ORDERING.
I have a lennox 3.5 ton air handler with 3.5 ton payne Heat Pump condensor R22 that pushes good air volume from 2 registers into 2 large rooms from one end of those rooms. Cathedral ceilings. My question is would the 4 to 5 Ton 18 SEER Variable Speed MrCool Universal Central Heat Pump Split System have enough air velocity to push out the vents into the rooms like 10 to 12 feet? Thanks
We have a 1900sqft home I believe a 3.5 ton is the recommended for that size, would this be too powerful set to 4 ton?
Regarding DIY installation, which install method is covered by the warranty? Is it only the No-Vac option for a DIYer? Does the condenser and air handler have to be bundled in order for the DIY warranty to be covered?
Can you set a different fan speed for heat than for cooling on the air handler board? Example: low fan on cool to help get rid of humidity and medium fan speed tor heating to force heating circulation. I see there are two separate dip switches but the diagram has the switches in unison.
What do you suggest for a thermostat for this unit ?
Can a 5 ton unit be used with two air handling units to zone a single family home? If so what would the order look like?
Can a handy home owner install this system.
Can a handy home owner install this system.
Can the condenser be installed in both a horizontal and vertical configuration? Or just vertically as seen in the picture?
Is an EEV or TXV factory installed ? If not do you have the matching hardware and what is the cost ?
What kind of power consumption does it use. Am off grid wondering on install to solar system what would be required to do
Do they make a downdraft version of the MrCool Universal? Can it be operated upside down?
Thanks
Thanks
Is the motor of high efficiency? What voltage does it use? What equipment does the price include? Here in Tampa FL it's hot about 9 months, which unit is recommended.
Can this unit work with 4 wire thermostat wiring or is 5 wire needed?
What gauge wire is needed to supply each unit?
Would a 5 ton work for a Green house R value of 1 or 2 curious
Can I use this as a 4 ton unit during the summer for AC and a 5 ton unit in the winter for additional heat?
Will the air handler for the 2-3 ton heat pump, also work, if I wanted change from the 2-3 ton system to the 4 ton system, with the same air handler?
If you install it yourself is it still under warranty for 10 years?
Do you need a MrCool Quick Connect Line Set Coupler Kit for Universal Split System when you use a Quick Connect Pre-Charged Line Set for Universal Split System?
ITEM: HA20920
What other parts are needed to install this unit.
Mark
What other parts are needed to install this unit.
Mark
Does this system come in a downflow? 5 ton
The manual states this condenser should not be placed in direct sunlight. I live in central Florida and would be setting the unit on the east side of the home, it would get mostly morning sun. Will this unit be able to handle the Florida Sun ?
I got this unit with a mr cool T stat, I'm wondering, does the condenser unit supply it's own 24 v ac to the thermostat to control the compressor and heat valve, if it does. How do you sperate it from the air handler that also supply 24 ac to thermostat to signal it's fan and valve? There is no wiring diagram on how mr cool wants there units to be hooked together. They all show the units hooking to a thermostat separately. Even if you use the wiring setting on mr cool thermostat for two power supplies, there is still a B/O terminal on both units looking to energized, two separated power supplies will be a large issue for that
Does this unit come with optional heat strip installed or is that additional? If additional, how much?
How well will this system work in lower Mi for both heating in the winter and cooling in the summer
I want to install a hinged return air grille (that holds a filter). I was thinking of using 25" x 20" since this is the approximate dimension of the air handler. Is this sufficient or should I use one smaller or larger?
Does this unit have an electronic expansion valve? If not, how does it regulate the size of the unit? Also is the air handler variable speed?
Can you lay the air handler on its side for installation in the crawl space? Is it ok to leave it on its side under the house?
Thanks
Thanks
What is the HSPF rating?
Are you authorized dealer for Mr Cool? The term on warranty stated that to get the warranty this unit has to be purchased from an authorized dealer.
do you sell the cold air return with an air filter option for this unit?
I know it goes under the air handler.
ITEM: HA20920 MODELS: MDUO18048060, MDUI18048060
I know it goes under the air handler.
ITEM: HA20920 MODELS: MDUO18048060, MDUI18048060
I presently have a ComfortMaker gas furnace. It is 57” high, 19” wide 30” deep. The return air feeds into the lower side of the furnace. Plows air out the top through the ducts. I’m going to purchase the 4 to5 ton seer variable speed mr cool universal central heat pump split system - up flow/ horizontal. Do I have to produce a box for under the unit to route the return ducts to flow from under the unit?
Hi,
Are both of these units 240 volts and how many amps does each unit draw?
Thanks,
RB
Are both of these units 240 volts and how many amps does each unit draw?
Thanks,
RB
Can you tell me if the Mr. Cool 4 ton universal saves in gas or is it no gas
Will this unit keep a 1600sf home cooled to between 72-76f in a high temperature high humidity region like n.e. Arkansas
I would like to know if the air handler unit has a slot on the bottom on install an air filter?
Would this be a suitable replacement for a double wide trailer with @ 2100 sqft. Current has a heat pump that has died.
Will this heat and cool in aledo Illinois
Filter size
Can one use the filter port on bottom return of the unit or do I need a separate filter in the return air duct before the unit
I notice it's not a standard size ?
Is this a system filter only or can one use this as main filter.
195/16×205/16× 5/8 ( 490×516×15
Can one use the filter port on bottom return of the unit or do I need a separate filter in the return air duct before the unit
I notice it's not a standard size ?
Is this a system filter only or can one use this as main filter.
195/16×205/16× 5/8 ( 490×516×15
Does it hook to your existing duct work.
I am interested in this item, ITEM: HA20920. I currently have a Lennox Harmony II Zoned Heat Pump System and I'm looking for a product like this. I still plan on using the zoning system to control the air flow in my home and I'm wondering if the system would be a good fit. I am planning on replacing the existing condensing unit and air handler and thought this maybe this unit would work for my application.
I need a 5 ton system for my 2525 sq ft home in Phoenix, AZ. I also have a 2 ton Mitsubishi mini split with concealed ducts which cools a large family room.
Any thoughts?
I need a 5 ton system for my 2525 sq ft home in Phoenix, AZ. I also have a 2 ton Mitsubishi mini split with concealed ducts which cools a large family room.
Any thoughts?
I need over all dimensions on the indoor unit / air handler
Hello,
I already have a modern air handler, but I would like to add on one of these condensers to my unit. It says that it is universal. Will it work with my air handler?
I already have a modern air handler, but I would like to add on one of these condensers to my unit. It says that it is universal. Will it work with my air handler?
how much refrigerant does this system take with a 25' line set?
I want to use this in my garage do i need two 220 volt breakers available i have one ready for compressor and another 110 volt for air handler will this work i don't intend to use a heat coil in the air handler. Thanks
What is the lowest output the unit will sustain when set in 4 ton or 5 ton mode?
My load calc says I need just over three tons to cool my 1400 sf house in Kansas, my oooold three ton works but struggles a little on the hotest days.
Would this unit or the smaller one rated at three tons be the better choice? How loud is the outdoor unit?
Would this unit or the smaller one rated at three tons be the better choice? How loud is the outdoor unit?
I am replacing a typical split system which is a gas furnace with central air handler and a/c condensing unit. My home is 2388 square feet on one level with a crawl space which is where the unit is located. Will this system work with my home? Which size will be best? My home is well
insulated built in 1986. I live in central Alabama.
Thanks very much.
Frank
insulated built in 1986. I live in central Alabama.
Thanks very much.
Frank
Which way is the fan suppose to turn when it is heating mode ??
Why is unit shutting of once everyday and I have to start it again???( 4 Ton Unit )
Why is unit shutting of once everyday and I have to start it again???( 4 Ton Unit )
will this unit take care of 3000 2700 square ft
Hi!
When installed horizontally, does it matter which side the air handler rests on?
When installed horizontally, does it matter which side the air handler rests on?
With the universal air handler for horizontal installation it states must be 8 feet above ground.... makes sense for an attic install but what about a crawlspace lower than 8 feet?
Im interested in adding a propane furnace to this system. Can you direct me to the right unit please?
The only access to my attic is via 24x24 air return, will the air handler fit? If not does it come apart?
The description says, It will produce 100% cooling at 110 degrees Fahrenheit, up to 72% heating at -5 degrees, what does this mean? Here in the Phoenix, AZ area, we have many days over 110. Can the unit handle cooling between 115 and 118?
Does the air handler have a copper evaporator?
What is air flow in heating mode at 4 tons and 5 ton capacity?
Currently running a high-velocity Unico system designed for 3.5 ton with 20 outlets on 2500sqft. Do you see any problem/trouble with using this 4-5 ton MrCool air handler?
I have an old brick house with a steam boiler heating system. Is it possible to put in your system? How is any ducting managed?
I have a gas furnace/ air handler from the early 90s. It works well and is efficient would I be able to keep the furnace/air handler and just replace my condenser with this unit?
Is there a wall mounting bracket for this unit?
What do you mean by 4 to 5 tons.
For our condominium, we do have Gas heat with the system mounted in the lobby area with compressor punted on the Roof Top.
We would like to change this gas heat to heat pump.
For our condominium, we do have Gas heat with the system mounted in the lobby area with compressor punted on the Roof Top.
We would like to change this gas heat to heat pump.
what size breakers do i need for both the outside and inside unit and if i add a 15k duct heater what size is that breaker as well
Is there a video that shows someone mounting the indoor unit horizontal? I'd like to replace a current horizontal/under-ceiling unit in the garage.
Also, what is the size needed for the supply plenum and the return air plenum?
Also, what is the size needed for the supply plenum and the return air plenum?
Can this unit be installed in a manufactured home?
Installing this with the auxiliary heat strips would require 6 wires instead of 5 for the thermostat connection to the air handler correct?
cuanto vale la intalacion ustedes mismo lo intalan
Does this system modulate based on airflow? Ex: 5 ton out door unit put on a 4 ton ahu running at lowest speed (900 or 1000 cfm) without freezing the indoor coil. If so what coil temp is it designed to run? Can that be changed. Considering this system or the Bosch 2.0 system. Is it possible to put a 5 ton odu on a 3 ton ahu to get extra capacity from the heat pump in lower temps. Btu range? The Bosch runs 15k to 66k on the 5 ton odu, allowing a 5 ton unit to be put on a 2 stage 3 ton ahu running 800cfm low stage and 1100 cfm high stage. Is this system similar?
Can it produce heat and a/c at the same time? I own a rug cleaning facility and I'd like to cool the warehouse but at the same time pump heat into a drying room and filter out the humidity in the drying room. Ned to keep the dry room RH under 17
does this come in a downflow horizontal?
what is the DB rating of the outdoor unit ?
I noticed that the Mr. Cool air handler is over 200 lbs. Can it be broken down into pieces to make it easier to get into the attic?
How much do you charge for installation and delivery to Zip 90250? We already have the air duct system for the central heat but not for air conditioning
can I use my existing thermostat a honeywell wifi with the 4 to 5 ton universal mr cool unit or does it come with a thermostat
I am thinking of using this in a greenhouse, will it be able to cool during winter months in the Midwest? I will need cooling capabilities all year round not only the summer months.
Can you confirm that the 98 ft max refrigerant line length for this unit is the run distance between the indoor and outdoor unit? Some systems are specified based on total length of the lines- Liquid and gas added together. I'm assuming that's not the case for this system since it has only one indoor unit. So 98 ft for the liquid and 98 ft for the gas line would be acceptable per this spec?
Is it charged with refrigerant up to 25ft?
do you have gas heating
I am going to purchase the 4-5 ton system. I see the air handler and compressor unit as a package. What else will I have to purchase. I think my last line set was 35ft. Are the line set's for the traditional heat pumps 'no vacuum."
Do you have a four ton downflow inverter system
I see no mention of an expansion valve, is one needed for the no vac line set and complete universal package ?
I am looking to purchase a 4-5 ton MrCool HVAC "set" and MrCool Quick Connect Pre-Charged Line Set. I am handy enough to do this work myself. I plan on installing it into my foam insulated 30x50 shop/garage with 20' ridge height. I am an engineer and I believe I can do the installation myself much nicer than some AC company that has to install in a hurry and move on to next customer. However I am reluctant to order it, I see that if it is not installed by a professional HVAC company there is no warranty. Where do we go from here. Even the 2-3 ton DIY verson has the same issue. so how is the "DIY" happen? People just buy and take their chances? Please advice. Thank you, AL
I see that a plastic condensate tray is an optional accessory. What type of condensate tray comes standard with the unit?
Just wondering. Can’t tell by the pictures. Where does the optional heat strip go on the unit.
Can you put together a hybrid package with propane furnace and universal heat pump?
Resources
Related Articles
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What Is the Best AC Temperature for the Summer?
When it gets hotter during the summer, it can be challenging to keep your home cool without increasing your energy expenses. Staying cool inside often means leaving your AC on all of the time, driving up your cooling costs. Finding the best summer temperature for your AC will help you stay comfortable without costing you too much money.
Along with finding the perfect summer AC temperature, using different tricks and tools to cool your house will save energy costs and maintain a cool indoor environment. Find the best temperature and strategies for staying cool all summer long below.
Why 78 Degrees Is the Best Temperature in the Summer
Your comfortable indoor temperature might change depending on clothing, outdoor temperature, activity or preferences. Everyone is different and will have a favorite coolness and warmth setting for their home. While every homeowner has their comfort temperature, Energy Star recommends setting thermostats to 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer when you're home.
Many people think 72 degrees is a suitable temperature for summer air conditioning, but it's actually too low to help you save money. For your home, 78 degrees is the best temperature in the summer since it's cool enough that you aren't overheating but close enough to hotter outdoor temperatures that your AC doesn't have to work as hard to maintain it. The closer the indoor temperature is to outdoor conditions, the lower your energy bill.
What Is the Best Temperature for Sleeping?
For nighttime, you want the temperature to be lower. The National Sleep Foundation recommends setting your AC between 60 and 67 degrees to get the best sleep. Your body cools down as you fall asleep, so sleeping in a cool room helps you get to sleep better. Since the temperature cools down at night, you can lower your AC without increasing your energy bill too much — the system won't have to use as much energy to achieve the cooler temperature, and you'll sleep better when you aren't hot.
If you can sleep with the AC set higher at night, leave the temperature above 70. Use fans, open windows, thin pajamas and light sheets to help you stay cool while you're sleeping. Summer nights are much cooler than days, so take advantage and let night air flow through your house with open windows for a natural alternative to using the AC.
What Is the Best Temperature for Babies?
Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) standards keep newborn rooms between 72 and 78 degrees to regulate infant temperatures. Since babies aren't as good at regulating their body temperatures, you'll want to keep their rooms at a comfortably warm level.
For babies and toddlers, 65 to 70 degrees is a good level to keep their rooms at. If you are unsure of exactly what temperature to set, aim for something slightly warmer and ensure it's a level you would be comfortable wearing a T-shirt in.
What Is the Best Temperature for Older Adults?
Older adults should set their homes to at least 70 degrees to keep their bodies regulated in summer. As we get older, we become more sensitive to cold and heat. Older adults need to stay at a comfortable temperature to prevent overheating or hypothermia. To save energy costs, close doors and vents in rooms you don't use so your AC focuses on rooms you'll be in. Stay hydrated and cover windows to keep the house cool.
What Is the Best Temperature for Pets and Plants?
We aren't the only living things in our homes — our pets and plants need to stay happy and healthy, too. Whether you have animals or greenery inside, set your house climate to something that suits them.
For dogs and cats, temperatures from 68 to 75 degrees during the day work well. Animals with longer hair might not handle heat as well as short-haired pets, so lower the AC if you have especially furry friends. If you have spiders, snakes, lizards, birds, rodents or some other kind of pet, they might have more specific climate needs. Do some research and talk to pet store employees to find out the best temperature for your pet.
If you have houseplants, you'll need to keep them in the best growing conditions. Many houseplants, while highly adaptable, are tropical. Many plants can tolerate 58- to 86-degree environments, but keeping them in rooms 70 to 80 degrees is best for their health. At night, you can lower the temperature to 65-70 degrees. Use pebble trays with water for a cost-effective humidity-producer for your plants.
What Is the Best Temperature for Your Belongings?
While our first thought when cooling our house is our family members, our belongings can become damaged if they get too hot. If you have significant family photographs, documents and prints, the National Archives recommends storing them in cool places below 75 degrees. This helps protect them from chemical decay and fading.
For your electronics, try to prevent them from overheating. Components can suffer if exposed to more extreme temperatures, so keep them in moderate conditions. Laptops are built to function between 50 and 95 degrees, but room temperature — around 68-74 degrees — is best for keeping them in working order.
Most belongings can handle the same indoor temperatures you can, so don't worry too much about your belongings during the summer. If you think it's getting too hot in your house for your belongings, move them to a cool, dark space for protection.
Tips for Staying Cool During the Summer
While 78 degrees is the best temperature for your AC in summer, it can be on the warmer side for many people. If your house feels too hot, you could end up adjusting the AC again, driving up your energy bill. To help keep your home comfortable, try some of these helpful tips.
Use Fans
Fans and ventilation are an excellent way to keep cool during hot periods. Use small electric fans to blow air onto you and stay refreshed in summer. For an extra cooling breeze, place a bowl of ice in front of the fan. As the ice melts, the cool water vapor blows onto you with the help of the fan.
Remember that fans cool people and not rooms — small fans are great for keeping the heat off you but won't cool down an entire space. Always turn fans off when you aren't in the room — this can help save you money on your electric bill.
To help with humidity, use bathroom fans. Too much moisture can make a room feel even hotter than it is, so turn off any humidifiers while inside. While you shower, put the bathroom fans on to remove that excess humidity. Consider buying dehumidifiers if your home's humidity is too high. Dehumidifiers help remove the moisture from a space, making it feel cooler, so you don't need to lower your temperature.
Change the Ceiling Fan Direction
Along with the smaller box, desk or oscillating fans, ceiling fans are perfect for getting a gentle breeze. They work great and send out lots of air so you don't feel the summer heat. In summer, always make sure fans are spinning counterclockwise. This direction pushes the cool air down, blowing it onto you instead of pulling it up. Ceiling fans will help you feel cooler without using the AC unit.
Increase the Temperature While You're Away
Set your thermostat higher when you're not home for higher energy savings. Setting the thermostat 7-10 degrees higher than its usual setting for eight hours a day can save you up to 10% on your yearly cooling bill. By not having your house constantly cooling when you aren't there, your AC system will use less energy, work less hard and last longer.
If you can't set your thermostat that high for eight hours every day, any time spent with the system set higher will still help save you money. A few hours every day at a higher setting will reduce the work your AC system is doing and lower the amount you'll have to spend on cooling costs. Try turning the AC off at night when it's cooler if possible and use fans or open windows to keep you from overheating.
Close Shades and Weatherstrip Doors
Closing shades or using good curtains to cover the windows during the day keeps the heat out and the cool in. Sunlight and warmth come through uncovered windows during the day, heating your home and causing your AC to kick on more frequently. Blocking the sunlight with closed shades or thick curtains will prevent most of the heat from sneaking indoors during the day.
Weatherstripping doors and windows is a great way to insulate your house against heat and cold. Small gaps and cracks between door and window frames allow air to travel in and out of your house. Larger holes and leaks will let the cool air inside escape, making your AC work harder and heating up your home. Put quality weatherstripping on your doors and windows to create an insulated barrier, trapping the cool air indoors and keeping your house cool.
Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances
Appliances like ovens, stoves and dryers can raise indoor temperatures. Try to use them after 8 p.m. to avoid heating the house. If you have to use them during the day, try to run them only once to reduce the heat entering your home. While these appliances don't always raise temperatures a lot, any excess heat sitting in your home will cause the AC to work harder, increasing energy costs.
Open Windows at Night
Opening your windows at night is a great, cost-effective way to cool your house down. Cooler night air and breezes can flow through the house, lowering the temperature and saving your AC unit from having to do all the work. Turn your AC off at night and let the nighttime air blow inside, relieving you from the day's heat. Just make sure your unit can handle frequent turning on and off — repeatedly switching a unit on may wear it out, so consider getting a variable-speed unit to avoid this issue.
While opening windows in the evening and at night is an excellent way to stay cool, keep your windows closed during the day. Open windows will let the heat and warmth of summer travel inside while the cool AC air gets sucked out. Even if there's a gentle daytime breeze, it won't be enough to keep the house cool without making your AC system work harder. Keep windows closed and covered during the day and open them at night for the best, least expensive cooling.
Get Seasonal AC Maintenance
You rely on your AC system to keep you cool during hot summers, and the last thing you want is an unexpected issue or outage. Forgetting seasonal AC maintenance is a common air conditioning mistake that can cost you a lot.
Your AC constantly runs during the summer, so it needs routine maintenance to work correctly. A damaged or unmaintained unit can run less efficiently, working harder to cool the home and costing you more money on your cooling bills. The more you put off maintenance, the more likely you will need a more extensive, more expensive repair down the road.
AC maintenance will check for issues, perform tune-ups and catch concerns before they turn into problems. Get your AC system checked at least once a year before the summer starts to keep your unit running efficiently for the whole summer.
Seasonal maintenance will help prevent problems that cause your AC to go out, which would leave you stuck without a cool house in the middle of summer. Look into local companies' maintenance programs — they're often low-cost and easy to get. Some AC systems will even have seasonal check-ups included in their warranties for easy servicing.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats are a convenient way to help reduce energy costs. Installing a programmable thermostat allows you to set a schedule, setting different temperatures at different times. With a programmable unit, you don't have to remember to change the thermostat when you leave or come back home. The system will do it automatically based on the schedule you've set for each day.
Setting a schedule and letting the house stay warmer will help cut energy costs at the push of a button. You can set different schedules for specific days, allowing you to keep the house cool all weekend when you're home and letting the house warm up during the day while you're at work. Look at installing energy-efficient thermostats or AC systems and potentially receiving energy rebates, saving even more.
Stay Cool and Save on Your Energy Bill
Using intelligent strategies when cooling your home will help you increase your energy efficiency and save you money during the summer. Energy-conscious systems might let you qualify for energy rebates, saving you even more on your energy bills, and programmable thermostats allow easy control over your AC system for lower cooling costs. Maximize your home's temperature system affordably with quality air conditioning products.
With over 30 years of experience, Ingram's Water & Air offers expert resources and high-quality HVAC products to ensure your home is as comfortable and cost-efficient as possible. Explore our heating and air conditioning options to find the best system for your home today.
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