Tips for Optimizing Your AC in Scorching Climates
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Aim for a comfortable setting, typically between 75F and 78F. 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. By generating a breeze, ceiling fans can enhance the coolness of a room, enabling you to increase the thermostat setting slightly while staying comfortable. Fans are designed to cool people, not entire rooms, so power them down when you’re not present to save electricity.
Maintaining your AC regularly is crucial for optimal performance. Replace or clean the air filter every one to two months, particularly during periods of heavy use. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy. This page has all the info you need.
Book an annual maintenance appointment with a professional to verify refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure the unit is in top shape. Escaping cool air through cracks, gaps, and insufficiently insulated walls can make your AC operate excessively. Inspect windows, doors, and ducts for leaks, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
Insulating your attic and walls effectively can trap cool air indoors, lessening the strain on your AC. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Shut curtains, blinds, or shades when the sun is strongest to keep the heat out.
Blackout curtains or reflective window film can be effective in further reducing heat buildup. Tasks such as cooking, operating the dishwasher, or drying clothes can produce heat, increasing the workload on your AC. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Opting for a microwave or outdoor grill over the oven can lower indoor temperatures. 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!
Advanced smart thermostats can recognize your patterns and modify settings on their own to maximize efficiency. Check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are covering the air vents. Obstructed vents limit airflow, decreasing the efficiency of your AC.
Leave all vents open, including those in unused rooms, to ensure consistent air circulation. By following these tips, you can keep your home cool and comfortable without overworking your AC or breaking the bank. Optimizing AC use saves energy and supports environmental sustainability by minimizing your carbon emissions.