As summer approaches and temperatures rise, keeping your home cool is undoubtedly one of your key worries. If you rely on your air conditioner to keep you comfortable during the hot summer months, you need to have it ready for efficient cooling and purification of air. While you may not think about it often, there are ways to improve your air conditioner’s efficiency and save money on your energy bills. Here are six simple ways you can improve your air conditioner efficiency and enjoy a cool, comfortable summer:
Clean or Replace the Vents and Filters
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your air conditioner’s efficiency is to keep the vents and filters clean. If they get clogged with dirt or dust, it will restrict airflow and make your AC work harder than necessary. Make sure to clean the vents and filters at least once a month during the peak cooling season.
If the vents and filters are too old or damaged, replace them with new ones to ensure optimal airflow. You can equally use the help and expertise of reputable heating companies to get the job done.
Adjust or Use a Programmable Thermostat
Another easy way to save on energy bills is to adjust the thermostat. If you can live without AC for a few hours each day, turn it down a few degrees and open the windows. Constantly adjust the temperature settings closer to the one outside rather than the one inside to save on energy.
If you can’t live without AC or have a hard time remembering to adjust the thermostat, consider using a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. You can even have them turn off the AC when you’re not home.
Check the Airflow
You can equally improve your AC’s efficiency by checking the airflow. If the airflow is restricted, your AC will work harder and use more energy. You can check the airflow by moving furniture away from the vents and checking if there is an increase in cool air.
Use Ceiling Fans
When used correctly with an AC, ceiling fans can help you save on your energy bill each month. When the weather is hot, use the ceiling fan in a counterclockwise direction while in winter, you can turn the fan in a clockwise direction to send the warm air into the rest of your room. During the summer, the fan will efficiently circulate the cool air from the AC and make you feel cooler.
Seal Air Leaks
Leaky windows or doors can let out a lot of the cool air that your AC is working so hard to produce. While it’s impossible to seal all the air leaks in your home, you can always start with the easiest ones to fix and make the biggest impact. Use caulk or weatherstripping around your doors, windows, and other cracks around your home to help keep the cool air in this summer.
Insulate Exposed Ductwork
If you can see your AC’s ductwork, much of the cool air is likely leaking before it reaches your living space. This is because the warm air from inside your home rises and finds the path of least resistance to escape. By insulating your ductwork, you can help keep the cool air where it belongs and improve your AC’s efficiency.
An efficiently working AC can go a long way in keeping your home comfortable this summer. By following these six tips, you can help improve your AC’s efficiency and keep your house cool and comfortable all season long.
