As the hotter months get closer, 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 recommendations and techniques to keep your HVAC system in optimal condition, decrease energy consumption and save money.
Repeatedly changing the thermostat makes your AC work harder, increasing energy consumption and causing excessive wear and tear. To maximize efficiency, set the temperature at a comfortable level—preferably around 78 degrees F (25 degrees C)—when you’re home. Next, refrain from changing it. If you get overheated, remove} a layer of clothing, spray water on your skin or turn on a fan to cool off without turning down the temperature.
For the most savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees higher than your standard setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” consider installing a programmable thermostat. This simple upgrade allows you to program temperatures based on your everyday routines, automatically changing the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and conserving energy when you’re not home.
Solar heat gain from direct sunlight forces your cooling system to work more than it really should. To minimize heat gain, close the curtains over your south- and west-facing windows in the afternoon. Window coverings with light-colored backings work the best at reflecting the sun’s rays.
Covered or closed air vents throw off your AC system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and increasing operating bills. To stop this, make sure to have at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and be sure no return vents are hindered by curtains, furniture or rugs.
Running fans in conjunction with your HVAC system circulates cool air more efficiently, making your home feel more comfortable while barely increasing energy consumption. Ceiling fans, in particular, create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler, permitting you to set the temperature higher without giving up comfort.
Cooking and showering create heat and moisture. Use your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to reduce your home’s cooling workload. Also, make certain your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to prevent hot, humid air from releasing into your home.
High humidity levels results in your home feeling cool but clammy, tempting you to decrease the temperature. A dehumidifier takes out excessive moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while using a lot less electricity than using the air conditioner.
The outdoor unit’s location affects its effectiveness considerably. Installing it on your home’s north or east side shelters the equipment in the afternoon for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest time of the day, consider planting a tree or getting a screen to shade it. Just make sure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t hinder airflow.
Cooking, laundry and washing the dishes lead to indoor heat gain, making your AC work harder. Completing these tasks in the evening when temperatures aren’t as high reduces the cooling load during the hottest time of the day and saves energy.
A filthy filter blocks airflow and increases energy consumption, so be sure to exchange it regularly to promote superior performance. Many basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal replacement schedule for your product.
Leaky, uninsulated ducts lose significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned areas like the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork increases system efficiency and reduces energy expenses.
Regular tune-ups are crucial to keep your AC running properly. Hire a certified specialist 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 uncover and deal with potential issues before they become expensive problems.
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing we pride ourselves on offering extensive AC services, including installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in the U.S.. Our customers choose us again and again for our unrivaled knowledge and dedication to customer satisfaction. In fact, we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every service we provide! Let our team help keep your home cool, comfortable and energy efficient this summer.
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