Has your electricity bill recently shot up?
Your inefficient air conditioner could be to blame. As energy costs are on the rise, it certainly pays to maximize the efficiency of your unit. Not doing so can affect the value of your home, advises paramountpmr.com.
While replacing an old unit with a new one may be the quickest solution, there are low-cost or free alternatives for increasing a cooling system’s efficiency.
In this article, we’ll look at practical ways you can improve your AC efficiency. By following these tips, you’ll slash your electricity bills while making your home more energy-efficient as well.
#1: Upgrade Your Thermostat
Do you have a smart thermostat? If not, it might be the right time to make an upgrade. You can adjust the settings of a smart thermostat using a smartphone app.
Switching to any setting is easy because it works remotely from anywhere. You only need to have internet access.
Plus, smart thermostats regulate heating and cooling when you aren’t at home. The processors run on clever algorithms that know exactly when to raise or lower your home temperature.
#2: Increase the temperature when leaving your home
Most homeowners believe that leaving their AC temperature the same when they leave the house will save money. The thinking behind it goes that the AC needs to work less to drop the temperature again. However, this isn’t the case here.
When your AC system works for a longer period of time, the peak operational efficiency is achieved at full speed. The on and off cycles, while you aren’t at home, will cost more than just lowering the temperature after you get back.
#3: Put your thermostat in the right place
The AC function is closely tied to the placement of your thermostat. For example, placing it close to a sunlit window will trigger your AC more often than needed. That’s because the thermostat will send false signals about the temperature.
You shouldn’t place your thermostat close to any appliances that produce heat. This includes lamps, heaters, and personal computers. The extra warmth will confuse your thermostat and lead to longer AC working cycles.
If you own a smart thermostat, you should ensure that there isn’t anything obstructing the connection. Bookshelves, cupboards, and heavy doors are only a few examples of possible sensor blockers.
#4: Check the air filters
Make sure that your air filters are clean. Dirty filters slow down the air circulation. Depending on how dirty your filters are, you could clean them or conduct a complete replacement.
#5: Insulate exposed ductwork
Check that your ductwork is properly sealed. As it runs through an unconditioned space, there is a risk for conditioned air leaks. When you find any leaky spots, you can use a high-quality duct-sealing tape.
#6: Use a ceiling fan
A fan can help to create serious savings on cooling costs. Just turning on the ceiling fan can make your room feel 10 degrees cooler. There is no need to tweak the thermostat, which means much lower energy consumption.
#7: Keep your vents unblocked
There are many things in your home that could block the vents. In turn, the efficiency of your AC system is greatly reduced. Remove any blinds, toys, furniture, and other household items away from your vents.
#8: Reduce the power use of your Air Conditioning System
You can improve your AC efficiency by taking concrete steps to reduce its power use.
Try following these principles:
- When your AC is running, make sure that all the windows and doors stay closed.
- Use exhaust fans while showering. The excess moisture makes your AC work harder and use more power.
- Open your windows to let the natural ventilation work as often as possible.
- Do you have a programmable thermostat? Never set it lower than 78 degrees when cooling.
In a nutshell: Improving Your Air Conditioner Efficiency
Keeping your AC efficiency in check is very important. You’ll conserve energy, save on electricity bills, and leave a smaller ecological footprint.
When you deal with AC efficiency issues, buying a new unit isn’t the only solution. There are free or low-cost alternatives that can help you improve your AC’s efficiency.
Here’s what you can do about it:
- Place your thermostat in the right place
- Keep your AC vents unblocked
- Check the status of the air filters
- Upgrade your thermostat to a smart version
- Insulate any exposed ductwork
- Increase the temperature when leaving your home
Remember to check our blog often for more money saving tips!