Air Conditioning FAQ

A properly sized system is very important. A system that is too big for your home will cool or heat your house quickly, but you probably won’t feel as comfortable as you wish. In the case of A/C, that’s because the thermostat sensed the desired temperature before the system could get the humidity out of the air. You feel sticky and humid and your house is susceptible to moisture and mold issues.

A system that is too small never can keep up and will never cycle off. This greatly increases your energy bills and substantially reduces the life of your system.

A properly sized system isn’t just based on square feet of your home. Many factors go into determining the size of the system including thickness of the walls, number and size of windows, thickness of insulation, basement and attic use, house orientation, and many other details. A MacGregor comfort specialist will take detailed measurements of your home and scientifically determine the correct sized system. We will fit your home with the most efficient system for years of comfort and reliability.

It’s a common question here in the Harbor Springs and Petoskey areas where the lake-effect snow piles high! The short answer is: only cover the top.

Air conditioners are built to withstand the elements, including heavy snow and rain. However, placing a sturdy piece of plywood or a specialized top-cover over the unit prevents falling ice and heavy snow accumulation from dropping inside and damaging the fan blades. Never wrap the entire unit in a tight tarp. Doing so traps moisture, invites rust, and creates a cozy winter shelter for rodents to chew on your wiring.

Summer humidity near the lake can make your home feel much warmer than the thermostat says it is. To keep your cooling bills down:

Keep your AC at a consistent temperature rather than drastically raising and lowering it.

• Change your air filters regularly to maintain peak airflow.
• Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air.
• Keep blinds and curtains closed on south- and west-facing windows during the hottest parts of the day.
• Ensure your system is properly sized so it runs long enough to effectively pull humidity out of the air.