Get matched with top heating and air conditioning pros in Newcastle, OK

It is normal for the attic to be hotter than the rest of the house in the summer, but only by about 10 or 20 degrees. Attics that aren’t properly insulated or ventilated can reach temperatures of 130 degrees or more which can cause damage to the home’s structure, including the roof, wood framing, and HVAC system.

You can buy a house with a 15-year-old HVAC system if you inspect the system for performance and budget for a replacement within the next three years. You can also negotiate the price with the sellers. Ask to look at the unit’s maintenance records and energy bills for the last two years to determine the shape of the HVAC system and its operating costs. Spend time in each room of the house to gauge if the HVAC keeps the home at a consistent temperature throughout.

To reset your air conditioner, start by turning it off at the thermostat. Then, shut off power to the AC system at the circuit breaker. Some units have a dedicated "reset" button; if yours does, press and hold it for three to five seconds. If your air conditioner doesn't have a reset button, or if you are resetting it after a power outage, leave the circuit breaker off for at least 30 minutes to allow the system to reset itself. Afterward, turn the power back on at the breaker, turn on the AC from the thermostat, and set it to "cool" to test the system.

Window AC units use a fair amount of electricity, but significantly less than central AC systems. Because they are more energy-efficient for cooling individual rooms or small spaces, their usage is comparatively low. On average, a window AC unit consumes between 500 and 1,400 watts, while a central AC system uses over 3,500 watts—meaning a window unit uses about one-third of the energy. This typically translates to a monthly running cost of $15 to $40, although this can vary depending on external factors.