Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Set the thermostat to a cozy level, often within the 75F to 78F range. Raising the thermostat by a single degree over 72F may cut your cooling bills by as much as 3%. View here for more info on this product.
To save power, turn up the thermostat by a few degrees while you’re away. Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler by creating a breeze, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Keep in mind that fans cool individuals, not spaces, so switch them off when exiting the room to conserve energy.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently. Replace or clean the air filter every one to two months, particularly during periods of heavy use. When filters are dirty, airflow is reduced, causing the AC to strain and increase energy consumption. This page has all the info you need.
Arrange for yearly professional servicing to inspect refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and confirm the system’s proper functioning. Cool air can escape through cracks, gaps, and poorly insulated walls, forcing your AC to work overtime. Examine windows, doors, and ducts for any leaks, then seal them using weatherstripping or caulk.
Good insulation in your attic and walls helps retain cool air, easing the burden on your air conditioner. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Draw curtains, blinds, or shades during peak sunlight hours to prevent the sun from heating your home.
Blackout curtains or reflective window film can be effective in further reducing heat buildup. Heat-producing activities like cooking, dishwashing, or laundry can force your AC to work more intensely. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Using a microwave or outdoor grill instead of the oven can also help reduce indoor heat. Smart or programmable thermostats enable you to customize a cooling plan that fits your everyday schedule. Set it to cool the house before you return and increase the temperature when you’re not there. Just click here and check it out!
Certain smart thermostats can adapt to your routines, automatically changing settings for optimal efficiency. Make sure air vents are not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. When vents are blocked, airflow is restricted, making your AC less efficient.
Keep all vents open, even in unused rooms, to maintain proper air circulation throughout your home. Adhering to these suggestions can help you maintain a cool and comfortable home while avoiding excessive AC use and high costs. Using your AC efficiently conserves energy and contributes to environmental protection by lowering your carbon footprint.