As the hotter months draw near, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without skyrocking your utility bills. The secret lies in using your AC more efficiently. Follow these 12 simple recommendations and techniques to keep your AC in optimal condition, decrease energy consumption and save money.
1. Leave the Thermostat Alone
Frequently changing the thermostat makes your air conditioner work harder, increasing energy consumption and causing excessive wear and tear. To maximize efficiency, set the temperature at a comfortable level—preferably around 78 degrees F (25 degrees C)—when you’re inside the residence. Next, refrain from changing it. If you get overheated, remove a layer of clothing, spray water on your skin or turn on a fan to cool off without turning down the temperature.
2. Set the Temperature Back When You’re Away
For optimum savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees higher than your usual setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” consider installing a programmable thermostat. This convenient upgrade allows you to schedule temperatures based on your everyday routines, automatically modifying the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and not wasting energy when you’re away.
3. Keep the Curtains Closed
Solar heat gain from direct sunlight forces your cooling system to work more than it normally would. To decrease heat gain, close the curtains over your south- and west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day. Window coverings with light-colored backings reflect sunlight the best.
4. Keep the Vents Open
Obstructed or closed air vents throw off your AC system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and increasing operating expenses. To avoid this, keep at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and be sure no return vents are hindered by curtains, furniture or rugs.
5. Create Airflow with Fans
Running fans along with your HVAC system circulates cool air more effectively, making your home feel more comfortable while barely increasing energy consumption. Ceiling fans, specifically, create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to set the temperature higher without losing comfort.
6. Get Rid of Hot and Humid Air
Cooking and showering generate heat and moisture. Run your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to decrease your home’s cooling workload. Also, verify your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to stop hot, humid air from releasing into your house.
7. Use a Dehumidifier
Significant humidity levels results in your home feeling cool but clammy, tempting you to turn down the temperature. A dehumidifier takes out excessive moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while consuming substantially less electricity than operating the air conditioner.
8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade
The outdoor unit’s location impacts its performance significantly. Installing it on your home’s north or east side protects it during the hottest part of the day for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest hours of the day, consider planting a tree or getting a screen to shade it. Just ensure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t impede airflow.
9. Save Your Chores for the Evening
Cooking, laundry and washing the dishes cause indoor heat gain, making your air conditioner work harder. Completing these tasks later in the day when temperatures are cooler reduces the cooling load during the hottest hours of the day and saves energy.
10. Replace the Air Filter
A clogged filter limits airflow and increases energy consumption, so replace it routinely to promote maximum performance. Many basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the recommended replacement schedule for your product.
11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork
Leaky, uninsulated ducts waste significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned spots in your home including the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork maintains system efficiency and lowers energy expenses.
12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance
Routine tune-ups are recommended to keep your air conditioning system running successfully. Use an accredited specialist to inspect, clean and service your system every spring. This proactive measure extends your HVAC system's life span, reduces energy consumption, and allows the technician to identify and address potential issues before they become high-priced problems.
Request Air Conditioning Service in Edmonton
At McKinley Heating Service Experts, we pride ourselves on offering extensive AC services, including installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in Edmonton. Our customers choose us again and again for our unrivaled expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction. In fact, we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every service we provide! Work with our crew at to keep your home cool, comfortable and energy efficient this summer.