There are many ways to boost air conditioner efficiency, which can potentially reduce the need for A/C repair. Heating and cooling also account for a significant portion of home utility costs. Increasing efficiency can therefore save you money. And doing so is generally not that complicated. These are 12 tips for boosting A/C efficiency that you can start benefiting from immediately.
1. Keep Vents Clean and Unblocked
Restricted airflow will reduce air conditioner efficiency and make your home uncomfortable. To keep the air flowing, dust or vacuum vents regularly, and don’t let blinds, furniture, or toys block them. Make a routine of walking around and checking all the vents in your home.
2. Change the Air Filter
Air does not flow well through dirty or clogged filters, straining your air conditioner. air conditioner efficiency is improved when the unit doesn’t have to work as hard, so remember to change your air filters every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer. And remember, less dirt and dust circulating in your home improves indoor air quality.
3. Clean The Outdoor Unit/Shade It
Debris around the condenser can reduce air conditioner efficiency. Make sure dirt, branches, leaves, or other objects aren’t blocking the unit and clear away any that you find. If necessary, turn off the power and open the panel to clean the fins. Shade the condenser unit in summer as well, so it doesn’t have to work as hard.
4. Clear the Drain Line For Air Conditioner Efficiency
The drain line by the indoor cooling coil can clog up, potentially causing a blockage and water damage. It can be cleaned with chlorine bleach. Pour one cup of it down the AC drain and flush a gallon of water down the drain. This is especially useful in summer when your air conditioner is working its hardest.
5. Close Your Doors and Windows
Leaving doors and windows open will allow conditioned air to escape, wasting energy. Keep them closed when the AC is on. If you prefer a fresh breeze, turn off the air conditioner and open a window or two. This can save energy, but not while your HVAC unit is running.
6. Don’t Use the Oven or Hair Dryer on a Hot Day
These appliances generate warm air that will circulate throughout your home. As a result, your A/C will work harder to compensate. This can be avoided by not using heat-generating appliances when it’s very hot outside. Follow this tip for the warmest part of any day; it can cut down on energy usage and reduce your air conditioner efficiency.
7. Don’t Place the Thermostat Near Heat-Producing Appliances
The location of your thermostat has a big impact on air conditioning efficiency. For example, if it’s near a lamp, heat-producing appliance, or in direct sunlight, it can misread the temperature. The AC will therefore act as if additional cooling is needed. This increases costs due to reduced air conditioning efficiency and potential repairs caused by increased wear and tear.
8. Install Window Coverings
If you don’t have curtains or blinds, install them. These can block some heat from reaching the inside of your home. Close curtains and blinds for windows in direct sunlight, to prevent unnecessary heating that makes your HVAC system work harder.
9. Fix Air Leaks For Air Conditioner Efficiency
Cool air can easily leak out of spaces around windows, under doors, and in your attic. You may not know it’s happening, but air leakage can cost you a lot of money. The A/C will run longer to compensate, but testing for leaks, caulking window and door frames, and sealing ductwork can help the system run better.
10. Increase Thermostat Temperature
You can boost air conditioner efficiency by adjusting your thermostat down by about 5° to 8° in winter. Adjust it upward in summer to see similar benefits (using a ceiling fan can make it feel cooler even though the temperature setting is raised). Upgrading to a programmable thermostat can help because it can automatically set temperatures for certain times of the day—and be controlled from your smartphone.
11. Has Ductwork Professional insulated
If you have exposed ductwork in your attic or crawlspace, have a professional insulate it for you. A significant amount of cooling, and even conditioned air, can escape through ducts. Insulating ductwork allows a technician to clean it and spot areas of leakage that can be fixed, improving A/C efficiency.
12. Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Your HVAC system should be maintained at least once a year. It consists of many moving parts and mechanical and electrical components are inherently prone to wearing out. Routine maintenance lets A/C professionals improve system performance, tune-up the unit, and spot minor issues to fix before larger components are damaged. Maintenance can not only improve efficiency, but also contribute to a longer operating life.
Fetch-A-Tech Can Help Boost Air Conditioner Efficiency
Customers in and around Las Vegas depend on Fetch-A-Tech to help maintain their A/C systems. We provide top-quality service and include a 100% guarantee. Sultry summer temperatures will be here before you know it, but our team is prepared to ensure your air conditioning system is working at peak efficiency. To get started improving your air conditioner efficiency, schedule service by submitting our online form, or call today!
