Summer is here! This means that if you aren’t already, you’re going to be using your air conditioner on a very regular basis. And you may like to know how you can use it in a way that will cost you as little as possible. Of course, AC usage is going to make your energy bills rise, but they don’t need to skyrocket (and if they do it might be a sign something is wrong with your air conditioner)
The good news is, there are a number of things you can do to boost your air conditioning efficiency and therefore keep cooling costs down. Keep reading as we uncover some of the most cost-effective ways to improve your cooling performance and efficiency.
Use Ceiling Fans
If you have ceiling fans in your home, this is the season to use them. Ceiling fans help better circulate conditioned air throughout the home, taking much of the burden off of your air conditioner. This is a great way to cut down on cooling costs during a hot, Ohio summer.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
Even upgrading from a basic digital thermostat to a programmable thermostat will do your energy bills a world of good. You can program the thermostat to a certain temperature and the AC won’t cycle on until it hits that temperature. This means your system won’t have to run as long, and therefore you’ll be using less energy.
Another option is to upgrade to a Wi-Fi or smart thermostat, which will learn from your cooling preferences and adjust itself accordingly. These thermostats can also be controlled remotely, along with other smart home products!
Change the Air Filter
There’s a common misconception among homeowners still that the air filter within their HVAC system is there to improve indoor air quality. In actuality, it’s there to protect the inside components of the HVAC system itself from dust, dirt, and other debris that can hurt its components.
This air filter is located at the HVAC systems’ intake, where it draws in hot air from your home. It also draws in any allergens and contaminants in your home, including dust and dirt. After a few months—depending on what type of filter you have—the air filter gets too clogged for air to pass.
When this happens, not only is the airflow going into your system compromised, but the airflow coming out will be as well. Your air conditioner will have to run longer and essentially work harder, using up more energy than necessary in the meantime, to reach the desired temperature on your thermostat.
Check the State of Your Ductwork
Were you aware that 30% of cooled, conditioned air can actually escape through small pinholes and tears in your ductwork? Leaks and breaches in the air ducts can significantly lower your energy efficiency, causing bills to skyrocket. Be sure you have a highly trained, professional HVAC technician inspect your ducts to make sure yours are in great shape!
For professional air conditioning in Sylvania, OH, contact AW Heating & Cooling.