How to Help Your Air Conditioner Run More Efficiently

As the warmer months get closer, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without sending your electricity bills through the roof. The secret lies in using your air conditioning unit better. Follow these 12 simple recommendations and techniques to keep your air conditioner in optimal condition, reduce energy consumption and save money.

1. Leave the Thermostat Alone

Constantly altering the thermostat makes your air conditioner 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. Then, refrain from touching 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 changing the temperature.

2. Set the Temperature Back When You’re Away

For the most savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees above your typical setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” consider setting up a programmable thermostat. This easy upgrade allows you to set temperatures based on your everyday routines, automatically changing the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and not wasting energy when you’re out.

3. Keep the Curtains Closed

Solar heat gain from direct sunlight forces your air conditioner to work harder than it really should. To decrease heat gain, close the curtains over your south- and west-facing windows in the afternoon. 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 air conditioning system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and increasing operating bills. To avoid this, make sure to have at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and ensure that no return vents are obstructed by curtains, furniture or rugs.

5. Create Airflow with Fans

Utilizing fans in conjunction with your air conditioner circulates cool air more efficiently, 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 losing comfort.

6. Get Rid of Hot and Humid Air

Cooking and showering generate heat and dampness. Turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to reduce your home’s cooling burden. Additionally, verify your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to stop hot, humid air from releasing into your home.

7. Use a Dehumidifier

Elevated humidity levels cause your home to feel cool but clammy, tempting you to decrease the temperature. A dehumidifier removes unwanted moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while using significantly less electricity than operating the air conditioner.

8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade

The outdoor unit’s location influences its performance considerably. Installing it on your home’s north or east side shades it during the hottest part of the day for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest part 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 impede airflow.

9. Save Your Chores for the Evening

Cooking, laundry and dishwashing cause 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 part of the day and saves energy.

10. Replace the Air Filter

A dirty filter limits airflow and increases energy consumption, so be sure to exchange it routinely to promote optimal performance. The majority of basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but its best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the ideal replacement schedule for your product.

11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork

Leaky, uninsulated ducts lose significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned areas including the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork preserves system efficiency and lowers energy spending.

12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance

Regular tune-ups are recommended to keep your AC running efficiently. Hire an accredited technician to inspect, clean and service your system every spring. This preventative measure extends your air conditioner’s life span, reduces energy consumption, and allows the technician to uncover and deal with potential issues before they become costly problems.

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At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive AC services, including installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in the U.S.. Our customers choose us again and again for our unparalleled knowledge and devotion 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.