(May 12, 2016 - Newark, NJ) - The last thing you want on the first hot day of summer is to discover that your air conditioner doesn't work. Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), New Jersey's largest utility, offers customers three easy steps to check and prepare their air conditioning systems now, before the summer heat arrives.

Replace the filter
For optimal performance, energy efficiency and health, AC filters should be changed once a month, or according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Clean the outside unit
The outside unit is susceptible to the elements, so it is important to closely inspect it. Turn the power off to the unit from your electrical panel, then gently clean it with a garden hose being careful not to bend the aluminum fins around the unit. Make sure there is no vegetation within two feet of the unit and mulch is not piled higher than the base of the unit. This will ensure optimal air flow. Once completed, turn the power back on to the unit from the electrical panel.

Check the thermostat
Now you're ready to test that your AC is working. Turn the temperature down on the thermostat. The AC should turn on quickly and provide ample cooling. If not, it may be time to call for service from a licensed and insured heating, ventilation and air-conditioning professional.

Don't wait for the first heat wave to schedule an appointment. PSE&G customers can call 1-800-350-PSEG (7734) or go to www.pseg.com to register their account for Worryfree and schedule repair services online**

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Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) is New Jersey's oldest and largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state's population. PSE&G is the winner of the ReliabilityOne Award for superior electric system reliability. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a diversified energy company.

** PSE&G Worryfree services are not the same as the utility services provided by PSE&G's regulated gas and electric delivery utility. PSE&G WorryFree services are only available to customers located in PSE&G's service territory. Similar services can be provided by service companies other than PSE&G. A list of those service companies may be available from public listings, including telephone directories. Customers are not required to purchase PSE&G WorryFree services to receive safe, adequate, and proper utility service.

Visit PSEG at:
www.pseg.com
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PSEG on LinkedIn
PSEG blog, Energize!

PSEG - Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. published this content on 12 May 2016 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein.
Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 16 May 2016 16:07:16 UTC.

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