1 - Set thermostat at one temperature. Constant adjusting can cause higher utility costs. If using your thermostat as a setback type, limit the setbacks to twice a day such as when you are at work and when you are sleeping. Only setback the thermostat 6% of desired temperature (approximately five degrees).

In heating, try not to set the thermostat below 65 degrees or above 75 degrees. Below 65 degrees a heat pump just won't put out enough heat and above 75 degrees is using too much energy. In cooling, try not to set the thermostat below 70 degrees. Besides higher utility costs, this can cause the indoor coil to freeze and cause condensation in the house.

2 - Keep coils clean. If they get dirty you can use a heavy duty degreaser and hose them down. Just turn the unit off first.

 3 - Don't stack things on top of the unit. If the fan is on the top the air-flow cannot be restricted. Do not put your rolled-up garden hose or landscaping products on the unit. We see this all the time.

4 - When mowing the lawn, direct the mower away from the unit. A coil blocked with grass clippings and debris drastically reduces the efficiency.

5 - When using a weed whacker be careful near the unit. Debris can damage the coil, flatten the aluminum fins, and cut the thermostat wires; shorting out the transformer. We see this all the time and it is an expensive repair bill.

1 - Don't plant prickly bushes like roses or holly around the unit. This makes it hard for service.

2 - Don't grow a garden or plant exotic flowers around the outdoor unit without leaving a path for servicing.

3 - When planting shrubs please don't block the access panels or the coil. Plan to keep 18 to 30 inches around the unit. Don't forget to plan for the growth of the shrubs five, ten, even fifteen years down the road.

4 - Many people like to completely hide the outdoor unit behind shrubs. Again make sure to leave a path to service the unit.

5 - Having crushed stone around the unit is best. It allows for good drainage, keeps the unit level and from sinking, keeps the coils clean from washed-up grass and dirt and also keeps the service technicians shoes clean. This will also keep your floors and carpeting clean.

6 - If building a fence around the unit allow for room to service, even replace the unit. If any major repairs need to be made, the service man may need access to all sides on the unit. Don't make the service tech have to jump or climb over a fence. The unit needs to be serviced regularly. Install a gate that can be easily opened.