In the summer months, air conditioning can be one of the biggest energy guzzlers in your home. With temperatures rising and electricity bills increasing, it’s important to find ways to cool your home without breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your AC is running efficiently while still keeping you comfortable.
In this article, we will discuss seven energy-saving tips for your AC that will help you stay cool and save money at the same time. Additionally, get tips on maintenance and troubleshooting so that you can keep your AC running like new!
1. Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. You can save up to 3% on your cooling bill for every degree you raise it. This may not seem like much, but it can add up quickly when the summer months hit.
2. Install a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day so that your AC doesn’t have to work overtime when you’re away from home or asleep at night. Always remember to change the settings when you leave for vacation or an extended period.
3. Make sure your air conditioning unit is properly sized for your home. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to cool your house efficiently and if it’s too large, it will cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy. When in doubt, call in a professional who can accurately size your unit and make sure it’s running effectively.
4. Keep your air conditioning filters clean and change them regularly. This will help keep the system free of debris and dust, which can reduce its efficiency. Check on the filter monthly to ensure that it is still clean and replace it when necessary.
5. Make sure that your home is well-insulated and sealed properly. Leaky windows or poorly insulated walls can cause the air to escape, making your AC work harder than it has to. If you find any areas that need to be sealed or insulated, make sure to do so as soon as possible.
6. Invest in a fan for your home. Fans can help move the air around and make it easier for your AC to cool down the room. You may want to consider investing in a ceiling fan, which can also save energy.
7. Regularly schedule air conditioning repair and maintenance. Having regular AC repair and maintenance will ensure that your AC is running at its peak efficiency and avoid any surprise breakdowns in the middle of summer. It’s also a good idea to call in a professional if you think you are having any problems with your AC unit so they can troubleshoot it and make sure it’s working properly.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months without breaking the bank.
DIY Troubleshooting Tips
If your air conditioning isn’t working properly, don’t panic! Here are a few simple tips to help you troubleshoot the issue before calling in a professional:
- Make sure that all the vents are open and unobstructed. If any of them are blocked, this can cause the AC to not cool properly.
- Check your air filters and replace them if they are dirty or clogged. Clogged filters can reduce airflow and cause the AC to not work properly.
- Make sure the thermostat is set correctly and check for any loose wires that may be causing it to malfunction.
- Check your circuit breaker in case the power has gone out or a fuse has blown.
- If you have an outdoor unit, make sure it is free of debris such as leaves or twigs.
By following these simple steps, you can save yourself time and money when trying to solve your AC issues. If the problem persists, then it’s best to call in a professional who can diagnose and repair any underlying problems.