Air conditioning is arguably more essential to comfortable living than any other modern appliance. Your comfort is a big investment and it can become even bigger if your system is not running efficiently. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends regular maintenance for your air conditioning system to increase its efficiency and improve its performance. If your AC is efficient, it consumes less electricity and your bills are reduced. How do you increase the efficiency and life of your AC? Below we’ll look at several factors that make a significant difference.
Changing AC Filter Consistently
According to ENERGY STAR, you should check and change the AC filter every month during peak season. When your AC filter gets clogged, dust and dirt start getting into the air conditioner itself, causing wear and tear on the parts. New filters improve indoor air quality and have a positive impact on the entire family, especially on children, elders, and anyone suffering from asthma or respiratory allergies. Another benefit of making sure your air filters are in good condition and free of excessive dust and debris is you can avoid costly repairs for your heating and cooling system.
Cleaning AC Condenser Unit
An excellent way to boost your air conditioner efficiency is to keep the outdoor condenser unit clean. A dirty or blocked condenser fails to disperse heat efficiently, impedes airflow, and will result in your air conditioner taking longer to cool your home. This ultimately results in poor efficiency and high energy bills. Use a water hose with gentle water pressure to spray the air conditioner condenser fins from the inside out to remove excess dust, dirt, or leaves.
Installing Stabilizer
The stabilizer protects appliances from sudden increase or decrease of the voltage and provides a constant voltage output to the AC unit. It greatly helps in regulating the electricity supply and provides top-notch protection for vulnerable equipment.
Using AC at Right Settings
Many homeowners prefer to use AC at the chilliest possible settings, which puts a heavy strain on the AC condenser and often leads to high power consumption. Your AC can be a lot more efficient if you simply set it closer to the outside temperature. A degree increase in AC temperature can save about 5% electricity.
Regular Maintenance
Many of us don’t pay much attention to home’s ac maintenance – until there’s a problem. By the time you realize its importance, you are at risk of spending thousands of dollars on expensive repairs and maintenance. Regular maintenance by your local HVAC professional will uncover any underlying issues and help ensure your AC’s performance all season.