How to Help Your Air Conditioner Run More Efficiently

As the warmer months draw near, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without skyrocking your utility bills. The secret lies in using your air conditioner better. Follow these 12 simple tips and techniques to keep your AC in optimal condition, decrease energy consumption and save money.

1. Leave the Thermostat Alone

Constantly adjusting the thermostat makes your cooling system work harder, raising energy consumption and causing excessive wear and tear. To boost efficiency, set the temperature at a comfortable level—preferably around 78 degrees F (25 degrees C)—when you’re in the house. Next, refrain from changing it. If you get too warm, peel away} a layer of clothing, spray water on your skin or turn on a fan to cool off without turning down the temperature.

2. Set the Temperature Back When You’re Away

For optimum savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees beyond your usual setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” think about using a programmable thermostat. This easy upgrade allows you to schedule temperatures based on your everyday routines, automatically modifying the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and not wasting energy when you’re not home.

3. Keep the Curtains Closed

Solar heat gain from direct sunlight forces your air conditioner to work harder than it normally would. To decrease heat gain, close the curtains over your south- and west-facing windows when the temperature is the hottest. Window coverings with light-colored backings are the most effective at reflecting sunlight.

4. Keep the Vents Open

Blocked or closed air vents throw off your AC system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and increasing operating expenses. To prevent this, make sure to have at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and be sure no return vents are blocked by curtains, furniture or rugs.

5. Create Airflow with Fans

Using fans in combination with your air conditioner circulates cool air more, making your home feel more comfortable while slightly increasing energy consumption. Ceiling fans, specifically, create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler, enabling you to set the temperature higher without sacrificing comfort.

6. Get Rid of Hot and Humid Air

Cooking and showering generate heat and moisture. Turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to lower your home’s cooling workload. In addition, make certain your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to deter hot, humid air from releasing into your residence.

7. Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity levels make your home feel cool but clammy, tempting you to turn down the temperature. A dehumidifier takes out excessive moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while consuming much less electricity than using the air conditioner.

8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade

The outdoor unit’s location impacts its operation significantly. Installing it on your home’s north or east side protects it during the hottest part of the day for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest time of the day, consider planting a tree or using a screen to shade it. Just ensure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t hamper airflow.

9. Save Your Chores for the Evening

Cooking, laundry and washing the dishes cause indoor heat gain, making your air conditioner work harder. Completing these tasks at night when temperatures aren’t as high reduces the cooling load during the hottest part of the day and saves energy.

10. Replace the Air Filter

A dirty filter blocks airflow and increases energy consumption, so switch it out routinely to promote optimal performance. Many basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but its best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the recommended replacement schedule for your product.

11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork

Leaky, uninsulated ducts squander significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned spots in your home like the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork preserves system efficiency and brings down energy costs.

12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance

Routine tune-ups are recommended to keep your air conditioner running successfully. Employ an accredited professional to inspect, clean and service your system every spring. This precautionary measure extends your AC’s life span, reduces energy consumption, and allows the technician to identify and address potential issues before they become high-priced problems.

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At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing we pride ourselves on offering extensive AC services, which include quality installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in the U.S.. Our customers choose us again and again for our unrivaled knowledge and commitment to customer satisfaction. In fact, we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every service we provide! Work with our friendly staff to keep your home cool, comfortable and energy efficient this summer.