Air conditioning is an important part of home comfort, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are several ways to make your AC more efficient and lower the bills. Some of the steps will take a little time, but they could potentially save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs over time.
Dust bunnies and buildup can clog up your vents, preventing cool air from coming out. To maximize airflow, do a walkthrough and check your vents to see if anything needs clearing. Avoid placing furniture and other blockages around the vents to ensure the cold air circulates properly.
Clogs and obstacles around your outdoor condenser unit can significantly reduce your AC’s efficiency. Check on top of and around the unit for debris and other blockages. Be sure to clean your AC unit regularly as well. If you hide your condenser unit (because, let’s face it, it’s not much to look at), be sure you aren’t using a fully enclosed structure or placing anything overhead.
To get the most from your HVAC system, it’s important to check your air filters regularly and replace them if they start to look icky. Energy Star recommends changing them at least every three months. This step will not only help improve your AC’s efficiency but also the air quality in your home.
Leaving the doors and windows open isn’t the only way to air-condition the entire neighborhood. Worn-out seals on your windows and doors can provide an escape route for cold air, making your HVAC system work harder. Your attic’s insulation is another common culprit for sneaky leaks. It’s a good idea to have a local HVAC repair pro inspect for leaks and make any necessary fixes.
That hot outside sun can easily come in through your windows and bake your home’s interior. One sunny window for your basking cat is okay, but it’s best to cover as many as possible to improve air conditioner efficiency. Curtains are the most effective way to block out the sun’s heat, but you can also add UV-blocking blinds if you want more light.
While there is plenty you can do to keep your home energy-efficient, there is no substitute for getting regular AC maintenance by an HVAC technician. A licensed pro can clean your equipment and make sure everything is running properly. They can also help detect issues before they become bigger problems, which can maximize the lifespan of your AC system.
It’s great when your AC is working perfectly, and it can be quite easy to take your system for granted. But when your system breaks down, starts leaking, or begins to overheat, it can spell disaster, not to mention major discomfort on the hottest days of the year. At H & H Heating & Air Conditioning, we get to you fast and provide efficient air conditioner repair service so you can get on with the rest of your day. Our 24-hour air-conditioning repair team will get to you promptly at any time of the day in case of emergencies and resolve the problem.
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