Have you in the recent past noticed that your power bills have significantly shot up? Well, the problem could be your AC unit. The US Department of Energy reveals that your Air Conditioning system accounts for almost 12 percent of your energy consumption annually. Furthermore, during summer, the consumption can shoot to approximately 70 percent.
If your air conditioning system is underperforming due to a sudden breakdown, you can opt for emergency AC repair with Autumn Air. This can go a long way towards stopping high power bills, but for now, we’ll show you how to boost your AC efficiency.
Tips on How to Improve Your AC’s Efficiency
There are many tips for improving the performance of your air conditioning system, such as cleaning the vents and filters regularly. Here are the other ideas to implement.
Unblock and vacuum your vents
One of the most effective ways of boosting your AC’s performance is by ensuring that the vents are free from particles. Therefore, it is prudent that you occasionally take a walk around the house to take stock of your ductwork and venting system.
Close all the windows and doors
Make it a custom to close all the doors and windows in your home when the AC is on. Opening them can lead to inefficiencies as the air inside the house can escape to the outside very quickly. However, if you want to air your home, turn off your AC unit first.
Clean around the condenser unit outside
If you want your AC unit to operate at the maximum, ensure the condenser is clean and free from debris. However, if it is necessary to change the condenser, get thorough information on what and how to do it. Additionally, you should leave the in-depth cleaning to the experts.
Keep heat-producing appliances away from the thermostat
The efficiency of your AC unit is highly dependent on the location of the thermostat. If the thermostat gets fitted near the hot parts, like next to a lamp, appliance, or sunny window, it may be unable to gauge your home temperature accurately. Therefore, during your thermostat installation, you must consult a certified technician.
Increase your thermostat’s temperature
In most cases, adjusting your thermostat temperature from five to nine degrees can help save both money and energy. You can also change the temperature of your thermostat if you have invested in a programmed one. The advantage of a programmed thermostat is that you just need your smart device regardless of location.
Cover your windows
It is best to close your blinds and pull the curtains to block heat from outside. That is an essential step in enhancing your AC unit’s efficiency. When you cover your windows, you reduce the heat getting into your house, preventing the AC unit from overworking.
Shade your outside condenser
Sometimes the summer sun can be brutal. The heat from the sun can heavily impact your condenser, making it overwork to cool your house. Shading your outside condenser will help reduce the outdoor unit’s tear and wear.
Clear the drain line
Finding a drain next to your system’s indoor cooling coil is normal. However, you’ll likely find it in the basement over the furnace. To ensure that your drain remains clean and clear over the summer, pour a cup of chlorine bleach on the AC drain and rinse it with water.
Insulate any exposed ductwork
There is a high chance that the ductwork in your attic may be exposed. If your attic is exposed, it can leak, which is dangerous since most parts of your home are unconditioned. Though there could be a problem with the ducts, unfortunately, you cannot fix them; you will need a professional to help you.
Change AC filters regularly
If your AC unit gets maximum airflow, it will operate more effectively and efficiently. However, this efficient operation can get compromised by a dirty filter. Besides reducing air quality inside your house, dirty filters can also reduce airflow overworking the AC unit.
Refrain from using your dryer or oven
You should refrain from using your oven or hair dryer when it is too hot. That is because these two appliances can result in the circulation of warm air in your home. Consequently, to compensate for the surge of this warmth, the AC unit will need to work excessively.
Schedule a regular and preventative maintenance
The best thing you can do to ensure your AC unit works at its optimum is to schedule frequent preventative maintenance with a certified technician. That will ensure that your AC unit can avoid severe efficiency hitches.
With the current economic turmoil, the US Energy Information Administration advises that it is only ideal if you have your AC repaired to reduce its energy consumption or avoid the cost of replacement.
Installing a zoning system
How can you control the temperature of different rooms? The zoning control system will come in handy. This system will help you divide your house into various groups and help customize their cooling levels.
Signs of knowing that your AC unit may be working inefficiently
Though we have discussed the quick hacks to improve the efficiency of your AC unit, you may need to learn when your AC is operating inefficiently. The US Department of Energy advises looking out for the following signs.
- High bills: If your utility costs have significantly shot, it is probably due to a faulty AC unit. When an AC unit works inefficiently, it needs more energy to operate.
- Frequent cycling: If you notice your thermostat (commonly referred to as the ‘brain’ of the AC unit) is cycling on and off frequently, it indicates that it needs replacement.
- Iced compressor: If you suddenly notice ice forming on your AC unit, it indicates that it needs professional repair.
- Unusual sounds: Each appliance at your house has the standard operating sound you know. So, switching them off is ideal for preventing more damage if you notice any sound changes.
Final Words
The US Department of Agriculture programs and grants (USDA) have commenced an initiative to assist underprivileged families in securing decent housing and home repairs. Besides, this guide has already explored several strategies to improve the performance of your air conditioning system. Therefore, you don’t have to settle for an inefficient AC unit.
