Special Contribution from the Villages at Fort Irwin
FORT IRWIN, Calif. – As the Mojave Desert temperatures rise, we would like to remind all our residents of three, simple truths for operating your air conditioning systems in 100+ degree weather. These are key in preventing the unit from icing over and blowing hot air.
#1: Never set your thermostat below 78 degrees
#2: Change your air filter every four or five weeks (more if you have pets or your unit is on the bottom floor).
#3: Close blinds and curtains by midday, leave all rooms open and use fans to circulate air.
We understand many of our residents are new to this area, have never lived in the desert, or are just lovers of the cold all together. We assure you as long-time residents, we know firsthand these tips are effective in preventing A/C malfunctions that can cause hours of uncomfortable temperatures in your homes. Every two out of three calls we receive end up being frozen coils– something that can usually be prevented. In just June alone, 50 calls were just simply due to clogged filters.
Before calling us, please turn off your system and go outside and inspect the inside coils and copper pipe of the unit. If ice is present, replace the air filter if needed, and do not resume operation until all the ice has completely melted. If after resuming operation at a thermostat setting of 78-80 degrees for 2-3 hours with no change in temperature, please call our maintenance department day or night at 760-386-2460. We have techs available and are happy to assist.