How To Get The Best Results From Your Air Conditioning This Summer
The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the temperatures are on the rise. Summer is almost here!
For many New Jersey homeowners, this means one thing: it's time to turn on the air conditioning. However, in order to get the best results from your AC unit, you need to know how to use it properly. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your air conditioning this summer.
Keep The Filters Clean
If you're like most homeowners, you rely on your air conditioning to keep you cool during the hot summer months. The first step you need to take to ensure you stay cool all summer long? Make sure your filters are clean and in good condition. If they're not, replace them. A dirty filter will make your AC work harder and use more energy.
To be energy efficient, AC units need to have clean filters. Along with changing or cleaning filters, it's important to have your AC unit serviced by a professional before the start of the summer season. Doing so will help ensure their AC unit is working properly and doesn't break down when they need it most.
Make Sure The Vents Are Open & Unobstructed
Another step you can take to keep your air conditioning working at peak efficiency is to make sure that your AC vents are open and unobstructed. Vents that are blocked by furniture or other objects can cause your AC to work harder than necessary, which not only drives up your energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In addition, open vents allow for better airflow throughout your home, which can help to prevent hot spots and uneven cooling. So take a few minutes to check your vents and clear away any obstructions. Your wallet and your AC unit will thank you.
Close Doors & Windows To Keep The Cool Air In
The best way to keep your home cool when it’s blistering outside is to make sure that heat stays outside. Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed and insulated. Keep your windows and exterior doors closed so you don’t waste your air conditioning.
Also make sure to close your shades and curtains when the sun is beating down on your house. This will prevent the greenhouse effect from increasing the temperature inside. All of these steps will help keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
Don’t Run Your AC When You Don’t Need It
Air conditioning is the single largest energy consumer in your home, accounting for over 50% of your monthly power bill! So if you want to decrease your cooling costs, the easiest way to do that is to use your AC less.
We know, easier said than done. But there are ways to do it. For instance, if you’re going to be out of the house for an extended period of time, adjust your thermostat settings accordingly. Set the thermostat to a higher temperature so that you don't have to pay to cool an empty house.
Use A Fan To Circulate Air Around The Room
The best way to make your room feel cooler without adjusting your thermostat is to turn on a fan! This is because the steady breeze your fan creates will make your space feel cooler without actually being cooler.
Ceiling fans work the best for this purpose because they can create a stronger breeze than a box fan or oscillating fan, but any well-positioned fan can effectively cool you down. This allows you to have your AC set a few degrees higher while enjoying the same comfort.
Replace Your Old AC Unit With A Newer, More Energy-Efficient Model
If your AC unit is more than 10 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. AC technology has come a long way in the past decade, and newer units are much more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. In addition, a new AC unit will be better able to keep your home cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year. So if your AC unit is on its last legs, consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model.
AC replacement can be a big investment, but it can save you money in the long run by dramatically reducing your energy bills. And because summer hasn’t fully kicked in yet, you can still take advantage of off-season deals to get your new AC installation at a significant savings.
Get The Most From Your AC This Summer
Keeping your AC filters clean is one of the most important things you can do to make sure it runs efficiently and doesn't use up more energy than necessary. Make sure the vents are open and unobstructed, and that there's enough space around the unit for air to circulate. You can also maximize the impact of your cool air by using a fan to circulate air around the room and closing doors and windows to keep the heat out.
And if your air conditioner is reaching the end of its life,replacing your old AC unit with a newer model will guarantee greater efficiency and better cooling. If you're in need of a new AC unit, now is the time to buy!
Looking for more great ideas on how to get the best results from your air conditioning system this summer? Call Edison Heating & Cooling at 732-372-7161 or contact us online to schedule an energy efficiency consultation!
