Local company provides HVAC tips to stay cool and energy smart

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- James River Air, a local heating and cooling company, is offering HVAC tips for people to stay cool and energy smart during extreme heat.

When temperatures start to climb, James River Air said it is important for residential and commercial property owners to operate their HVAC systems effectively and efficiently.

Here are the top HVAC tips, as provided by James River Air:

• Aim for a max 20-degree temperature difference between outside and inside -- ensure your unit is working properly
• Check and change air filters regularly to maintain airflow and system performance
• Don't set the thermostat way back during the day -- it can overwork the system
• Vents throughout the building or home should be open and unobstructed
• Make sure the area around indoor and outdoor units are clear from debris and clutter
• Monitor the system's cooling -- if the temperature doesn't drop as expected, the system might need servicing
• Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day to reduce heat gain indoors

For the latest weather updates, visit the StormTracker8 Daily Forecast.