13 Air Conditioning Efficiency Tips for Homeowners

You might not think twice about turning up the air conditioning when it’s sweltering outside—until you see your electric bill. Air conditioning accounts for about 12% of the average U.S. home’s 12-month energy expenditures and up to 70% of your utility costs during the summer. If you’re tired of overpaying for air conditioning, follow these 13 tips to improve AC efficiency and save money on your monthly expenses.

1. 1. Prioritize routine maintenance: Dirt and debris collect in your air conditioner over time, reducing efficiency. Make appointments for annual maintenance to have a professional clean your unit’s coils, exchange the filter, tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving pieces and more. An annual inspection also enables your technician to discover and fix any potential issues before they become severe problems.

1. 1. Keep the outdoor unit free of obstructions: Loose dirt and nearby vegetation growing around your air conditioner can minimize airflow and make the system work harder. Look at the unit throughout the summer, trimming back vegetation and removing debris as needed to keep your cooling system functioning correctly.

1. 1. Set up a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat enables you to set automatic temperatures based on your schedule. In the summer months, program a higher temperature when you’re away from home and have it resume a comfortable temperature before you get back. This reduces energy consumption and saves money without sacrificing comfort.

1. 1. Avoid overriding programmed settings: While you could override the temperature on your programmable thermostat, try turning on a fan or removing a layer of clothes before you change the setting. When you have to change the temperature, do so by merely a degree or two. Cranking down the temperature won’t cool your home any more rapidly and only serves to waste electricity.

1. 1. Use the auto fan setting: While fan-only mode circulates air to keep rooms from becoming stuffy, HVAC professionals advocate using this setting sparingly. “Auto fan” is the more efficient setting because the blower only runs when the rest of the AC does, avoiding unnecessary energy waste.

1. 1. Stop solar heat gain: Closing blinds and curtains, getting outside awnings and applying window film helps block the sun’s heat to keep your residence cooler. These strategies are most useful on south- and west-facing windows where the sun shines right inside.

1. 1. Install the outdoor part of your system in the shade: Direct sunlight makes your system to work harder and lowers efficiency. So if possible, position the condensing unit so it’s out of the direct sunlight in the afternoon.

1. 1. Keep your air vents open: It’s a often-held misconception that closing the vents in empty rooms conserves energy. The truth is, this throws off the supply and return air equilibrium, making your AC not as efficient. By and large, keep at least 80% of your registers open at all times and ensure that no vents are hindered by rugs, curtains or furniture.

1. 1. Use ceiling fans along with your air conditioner: Ceiling fans distribute air throughout the room, producing a wind chill effect that makes you feel about 4 degrees cooler. This could allow you to turn up the temperature a few degrees without feeling unpleasant, dropping your dependence on the air conditioner and minimizing your bills.

1. 1. Use a dehumidifier: High humidity causes a “cool but clammy” feeling, which is an uncomfortable sensation that may compel you to repeatedly lower the temperature. In reality, you need less humidity, not cooler air. Running a whole-house dehumidifier eliminates excess moisture, making your home feel more comfortable for a fraction of the cost of air conditioning.

1. 1. Use natural ventilation wisely: When it’s hot and humid outside, keep your windows and doors closed to restrict cool air from leaking out. If you live in somewhere with cool summer evenings, open the windows and doors at night to cool off the house naturally, reducing the strain on your air conditioner.

1. 1. Seal air leaks: Leaky windows and doors let hot summer air inside of the house even when closed, making it more difficult and more expensive to keep things cool. Seal leaks with caulk and weatherstripping to keep conditioned air inside where it is supposed to be.

1. 1. Seal duct leaks: A standard home loses 20% or more of the conditioned air inside of it to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts. Reach out to a professional to seal your ductwork and put a stop to this energy waste.

If you still have comfort issues or large energy expenses after implementing these tips, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for help. We are able to diagnose and repair air conditioning concerns, provide preventative maintenance, or replace your outdated, poorly performing system with a brand-new, high-efficiency model. For your confidence, we stand behind everything we do with a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee! Contact a Service Experts office near you today to learn more or request air conditioning services in North America.