As the warmer months get closer, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without your energy costs soaring. The secret lies in using your air conditioner more effectively. Follow these 12 simple ideas and strategies to keep your HVAC system in optimal condition, decrease energy consumption and save money.
1. Leave the Thermostat Alone
Frequently changing the thermostat makes your cooling system work harder, elevating 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 inside the residence. After that, refrain from changing it. If you get overheated, take off 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 standard setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” think about installing a programmable thermostat. This simple upgrade allows you to program temperatures based on your daily routines, automatically changing the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and saving energy when you’re not home.
3. Keep the Curtains Closed
Solar heat gain from direct sunlight makes your AC run longer than it has to. To minimize 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
Covered or closed air vents throw off your AC system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and increasing operating bills. To avoid this, always keep at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and be sure 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 effectively, making your home feel more comfortable while hardly increasing energy consumption. Ceiling fans, specifically, create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler, permitting you to set the temperature higher without sacrificing comfort.
6. Get Rid of Hot and Humid Air
Cooking and showering create heat and dampness. Turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to decrease your home’s cooling burden. In addition, make sure your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to prevent hot, humid air from releasing into your residence.
7. Use a Dehumidifier
Elevated humidity levels results in your home feeling 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 significantly less electricity than running the air conditioner.
8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade
The outdoor unit’s location impacts its performance significantly. Installing it on your home’s north or east side shades the equipment during the hottest part of the day for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest hours of the day, consider planting a tree or using a screen to shade it. Just make sure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t hamper airflow.
9. Save Your Chores for the Evening
Cooking, laundry and dishwashing create indoor heat gain, making your air conditioner work harder. Conducting energy-using activities like these later in the day when temperatures aren't as high reduces the cooling load during the hottest time of the day and saves energy.
10. Replace the Air Filter
A dirty filter restricts airflow and increases energy consumption, so be sure to exchange it routinely to promote optimal performance. Many basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the recommended replacement schedule for your product.
11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork
Leaky, uninsulated ducts waste significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned spaces such as the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork maintains system efficiency and reduces energy expenses.
12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance
Regular tune-ups are recommended to keep your air conditioner running properly. Use 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 find and address potential issues before they become costly problems.
Request Air Conditioning Service in Kansas City
At Neal Harris Service Experts, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive AC services, such as installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in Kansas City. Our customers choose us again and again for our unmatched know-how 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.