There’s no getting around it: Electricity costs are high and likely to keep getting higher. At the same time, many homeowners find themselves having to crank the AC to stay cool during summer months. Luckily, there are ways to make your air conditioner work more efficiently so you can keep more money in your pocket this summer.
Why Does AC Energy Efficiency Matter?
AC efficiency is a measure of how much cooling power you get per unit of electricity the system uses. Some homeowners like that greater efficiency means a lower carbon footprint, but everyone appreciates that more efficient air conditioning means you spend less on electricity while maintaining optimum cooling. Here are seven ways you can help your AC run more efficiently.
1. Change Filters Regularly
AC filters build up debris relatively quickly as they remove dust and allergens from the air. When filters are clogged, airflow is restricted, meaning your system has to work harder and use more electricity to get cool air out. A clogged filter causes systems to use 15% more energy. Changing filters regularly keeps air flowing unobstructed and saves you money.
2. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
The most efficient cooling temperatures and schedules aren’t usually intuitive. A smart thermostat can learn your cooling habits and optimize them so you stay comfortable without using as much electricity. In fact, smart thermostats can save an average of 8% per year.
3. Keep Vents Open
Like clogged filters, closed air vents prevent proper airflow. Ensuring your vents are open prevents your air conditioner from working harder than it has to.
4. Repair & Insulate Ductwork
If your ductwork has holes, it’s leaking air out in various places of your home, forcing your AC to work harder to compensate. About 20-30% of the air moving through your duct system can be lost due to leaks and holes. Repairing ductwork prevents those leaks. Insulating your ductwork helps keep the air flowing through it cooler, resulting in less work for your air conditioner.
5. Close & Cover Windows
An open window is just letting cooled air outside, forcing the AC to produce more. Uncovered windows are inefficient because they allow rays from the sun to heat up the interior of your home.
6. Avoid Using Exhaust Fans
Exhaust fans should only be used when taking longer showers and when there’s smoke in your kitchen. While they vent steam and smoke to the outside, they also take cooled air with them and your AC has to compensate.
7. Get a Professional Tune-Up
Did you know a dirty condenser coil can increase compressor energy consumption by 30%? Regular professional maintenance will help your AC run more efficiently in several ways, including:
- Removing dirt and dust from coils.
- Cleaning or replacing your air filter.
- Refilling low refrigerant for peak cooling efficiency.
- Lubricating moving parts to eliminate inefficiency from friction.
- Calibrating the thermostat to prevent short-cycling.
Why Choose Us?
At Hager Fox Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re all about ensuring you get the best value out of your AC system. Whether that means repairing AC issues causing poor cooling or providing thorough tune-ups that keep your system running at its best, you can expect top-quality service from our team of technicians who are never subcontracted.
Contact us today to schedule maintenance or repairs that will improve your air conditioner’s efficiency.
