In the average home, the air conditioning system ends up using upwards of 70 percent of the home’s overall energy consumption during the summer.
Because this equipment is so expensive to run, and yet so necessary when it’s hot out, finding ways to make it work more effectively and efficiently during the hottest times of the year is a wise move that’s sure to save you time and money.
To help you save money on A/C costs this summer, our experts at LRF Maintenance, Heating & Cooling offer 7 helpful suggestions:
Seasonal Maintenance
We put this at the top of our list for good reason!
If there’s one sure way to make sure your A/C system runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the summer, seasonal maintenance is at the top of the list. As part of a preventative maintenance visit, our technicians do a safety check, perform cleanings and provide an A/C tune-up. Without regular maintenance every year, an air conditioner will depreciate over time in performance and efficiency, increasing wear and tear and making repairs inevitable. Although the service costs money up front and might seem inconvenient, it pays off in the long run by lowering your home’s cooling costs while prolonging the lifespan of your equipment.
A/C Air Filters
Changing air filters is right up there with maintenance. However, this doesn’t require a professional. When it comes to the performance of our home cooling systems, air filters are essential. Not only do they help keep the air in our home clean from dust, allergens, dirt and debris. However, they also protect our equipment inside the actual A/C unit as well. On average, air filters must be checked around once a month during the summer to ensure proper air flow. They should be replaced as often as necessary to keep the A/C unit running the most efficiently.
Clean Condenser Coils
Although they are located outside the home, A/C condenser coils can impact the way the inside of a home feels. They also affect the unit’s longevity and efficiency. A condenser coil’s primary function is to take the unwanted warmth from the inside of the house and release it to the air outside. If the coils are dirty or have a blockage, it hinders the coils’ ability to do this, which can cause damage to the unit and compromise home comfort. Keep your A/C system running as effectively as possible by scheduling professional cleanings and routine maintenance every year as suggested. It will also keep your warranty active.
Sealing Ductwork
Properly sealed ductwork plays an essential role in the function of any HVAC system. During the summer, our air ducts transport the cool air from our air conditioner throughout the home. Therefore, leaks in ductwork can force your A/C to work harder than it should during the summer by allowing conditioned air to escape. Make sure to schedule routine maintenance and keep furniture and objects away from vents in the household to ensure the most effective amount of air flow.
Sealing Doors and Windows
Air leaks or drafts in older homes can be hard on an air conditioning system. Although the beauty of older styled windows and doors can be nice to look at, they could also be costing you. If doors and windows aren’t sealed properly and cool air is escaping outside, it can also allow warmer temperatures to make their way into the household. Caulking around windows and doors inside your home, or replacing older ones, will help your AC unit maintain cool temperatures inside without excess stress and energy expenditure.
Check Insulation Levels
If your insulation levels are low, summer heat can leave your home cooling system working extra hard to keep your home cool during the summer. If you suspect insulation is an issue, have it checked. Adding sufficient levels of insulation could help with A/C efficiency. Proper insulation in your attic and walls is important because it provides a barrier of protection which keeps the AC unit’s cool air from escaping outside. Ensuring proper insulation in your home could leave your AC unit running more efficiently while making your house feeling a lot more comfortable.
Upgrading Your A/C
While investing in a new A/C might seem pricey up front, keep in mind that you will be saving in the long run with greater energy efficiency. Outdated, ineffective AC units will need to be replaced sooner or later. They can cause your home to feel uncomfortable even when your A/C is running at full capacity. Newer equipment can ensure a more comfortable home and energy efficiency. Plus you’ll save on repair costs you’d have to pay for to keep the older system in operation.
For more advice on how to keep your house cool this summer, call LRF Maintenance, Heating & Cooling today at (614) 837-4822, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here!