How to Help Your Air Conditioner Run More Efficiently

As the warmer months get closer, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without skyrocking your utility bills. The secret lies in using your air conditioning unit better. Follow these 12 simple ideas and tactics to keep your AC in optimal condition, reduce energy consumption and save money.

1. Leave the Thermostat Alone

Repeatedly altering the thermostat makes your air conditioner work harder, elevating 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 home. Then, refrain from touching it. If you get too warm, take off a layer of clothing, spray water on your skin or turn on a fan to cool off without changing the temperature.

2. Set the Temperature Back When You’re Away

For optimum savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees beyond your usual setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” think about using a programmable thermostat. This easy 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 saving energy when you’re out.

3. Keep the Curtains Closed

Solar heat gain from direct sunlight makes your AC run longer than it normally would. To reduce 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 are the most effective at reflecting sunlight.

4. Keep the Vents Open

Obstructed or closed air vents throw off your AC system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and raising operating expenses. To stop this, always keep at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and make certain no return vents are hindered by curtains, furniture or rugs.

5. Create Airflow with Fans

Utilizing fans in combination with your air conditioning system circulates cool air more, making your home feel more comfortable while hardly 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 produce heat and moisture. Use your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to reduce your home’s cooling load. Also, ensure that your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to deter hot, humid air from releasing into your house.

7. Use a Dehumidifier

Elevated humidity levels results in your home feeling cool but clammy, tempting you to lower the temperature. A dehumidifier takes away excess moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while consuming much less electricity than using the air conditioner.

8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade

The outdoor unit’s location impacts its effectiveness considerably. Installing it on your home’s north or east side shelters the unit from the afternoon heat for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest hours of the day, consider planting a tree or installing a screen to shade it. Just make sure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t hinder airflow.

9. Save Your Chores for the Evening

Cooking, laundry and washing the dishes lead to indoor heat gain, making your air conditioner work harder. Conducting energy-using activities like these at night when temperatures aren't as high reduces the cooling load during the hottest part of the day and saves energy.

10. Replace the Air Filter

A clogged filter restricts airflow and increases energy consumption, so replace it routinely to promote optimal performance. The majority of basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but its best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the recommended replacement schedule for your product.

11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork

Leaky, uninsulated ducts lose significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned areas including the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork maintains system efficiency and brings down energy expenses.

12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance

Regular tune-ups are essential to keep your AC running successfully. Hire a licensed professional to inspect, clean and service your system every spring. This proactive measure extends your air conditioner's life span, reduces energy consumption, and allows the technician to uncover and address potential issues before they become expensive problems.

Request Air Conditioning Service in Louisville

At Becht/Givens Service Experts, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive AC services, including installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in Louisville. Our customers choose us again and again for our unparalleled know-how and dedication to customer satisfaction. In fact, we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every service we provide! Let our team help keep your home cool, comfortable and energy efficient this summer.