Whether you own a central air conditioner or a mini-split system, having a reliable source of cooling can make a summer much more bearable. However, there are many ways that homeowners can improve the effectiveness of their air conditioning so it won’t have to work harder than it needs to. If you want to stay cool and comfortable while saving money, let’s take a look at five summer AC tips that everyone should know.
Pay Attention to Your Thermostat
Monitoring and adjusting your thermostat this summer can significantly boost your air conditioning efficiency. A smart thermostat offers the advantage of setting your air conditioning unit to operate less when you’re not home, which can lead to substantial savings on your energy bill.
When you use your thermostat properly and pay attention to it, your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard — reducing wear and keeping your home cool without unnecessary energy use. This proactive adjustment not only extends the lifespan of your AC unit but also contributes to a lower electric bill, making it a smart strategy for managing summer heat.
Make Sure the Filters Are Clean
Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filters in your air conditioning system is important too. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which forces your AC to expend more energy to circulate cool air throughout your home. This can lead to a decrease in air conditioning efficiency, higher annual energy costs, and potential damage to your air conditioning unit.
Additionally, cleaning filters also improves indoor air quality — reducing dust and allergens that can accumulate during winter. This simple maintenance task can save money on expensive repairs and keep your cooling system running efficiently through the hottest months.
Seal Up Door and Window Gaps
Sealing gaps in doors and windows with weather stripping is a great way to enhance your air conditioning efficiency. Leaks in these areas can allow cool air to escape and warm air to enter, causing your air conditioning unit to work harder and use more energy to maintain a preferred temperature.
By sealing these gaps, you can prevent the loss of conditioned air, leading to significant savings. This also helps to maintain consistent temperature settings, providing a more efficient cooling system and preventing the strain on your air conditioner.
Keep Out the Sun
Using shades to block sunlight can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home. By keeping the sun’s rays at bay — especially during the peak hours — you can maintain cooler indoor temperatures without relying heavily on your air conditioning system.
Shades can not only improve energy efficiency but also protect your interior from sun damage. Effective use of shades, combined with ceiling fans and other summer AC tips, can enhance cooling efficiency and lead to noticeable savings.
Schedule Maintenance in Spring
Scheduling maintenance for your air conditioning system in the spring — before the onset of the hot summer weather — is a proactive measure that can prevent unexpected breakdowns. A professional HVAC technician can inspect and clean the condenser unit, coils, and air handler, ensuring that your cooling system is in optimal condition.
Regular maintenance checks can identify and repair minor issues before they become expensive repairs, ensuring your air conditioner is ready to handle the summer. This not only prolongs the lifespan of your air conditioning unit but also secures energy savings by ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency.
For Professional Services for Air Conditioners, Call Comfort First Today
If you need a new air conditioner or need to repair or tune up your existing one, the team at Comfort First will be happy to help. We offer professional AC installations in the Joliet area, as well as AC maintenance and other services that will help your home beat the summer heat. Reach out today to schedule a service for your air conditioner system.