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Effective Ways To Increase A/C Efficiency
Improving your cooling system’s efficiency can help you save money and extend the lifespan of your equipment. The question is, what are the most effective ways to do it?
Here are nine ways to keep your air conditioner running at its best this summer.
Keep vents clean and clear – Walk around your house and take stock of the vents. Clean dusty or fur-coated vents with soap and water, and make sure they are clear of obstructions such as drapes, furniture, or other items.
Keep all doors and windows closed – Keep hot air out and cool air in by making sure all doors and windows are closed when you use your A/C.
Keep heat-producing appliances away from your thermostat – If your thermostat is installed next to a sunny window or oven, it will think your home needs more cooling than it actually does. That means your system will run more than it needs to – and you’ll pay for it. If your thermostat is installed in a hot spot, contact us – we’ll move it for you.
Fix air leaks – As much as 15 percent of the air you paid to cool can escape via leaks around windows and doors. Use caulk and weatherstripping to reduce leaks and keep the cool air in. Don’t forget your ducts, either – consider a professional duct sealing about once every five to seven years.
Manage temperatures with your thermostat – Every degree you raise your thermostat temperature will save you one to three percent on your energy bill; the easiest way to do that is to use the programming features on your thermostat. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider installing one – if used correctly, it will pay for itself in the first year or two you own it.
Shade your outdoor condenser unit – To help reduce overwork on your outdoor condenser unit, keep it in the shade – just be sure not to obstruct the airflow in any way.
Keep your A/C filters clean – Dirty filters don’t only reduce your indoor air quality, they also reduce airflow, making the job of your air conditioner more difficult than it needs to be. Check and change your filters often, especially if you have pets that shed.
Consider supplemental cooling – Ductless mini-split air conditioners are a great source of supplemental cooling for a home with a recent addition or a particularly difficult-to-cool room. They’ll reduce the heating load for your central A/C, saving you money on your overall bill.
Get your equipment professionally maintained – One of the best things you can do for your A/C efficiency is to schedule regular preventative maintenance with a home cooling expert. A knowledgeable technician will make sure that everything is working properly and that your equipment is working at its best. Be sure to give your central air conditioner a COMPLETE once-over every year.
Improving your cooling system’s efficiency can help you save money and extend the lifespan of your equipment. The question is, what are the most effective ways to do it?