Tips for Optimizing Your AC in Scorching Climates
You don’t need to set your thermostat to the lowest possible temperature to stay cool. Aim for a comfortable setting, typically between 75F and 78F. Increasing the thermostat by just one degree above 72F can reduce cooling expenses by up to 3%. View here for more info on this product.
If you’re away from home, set the thermostat a few degrees higher to save energy. By generating a breeze, ceiling fans can enhance the coolness of a room, enabling you to increase the thermostat setting slightly while staying comfortable. Keep in mind that fans cool individuals, not spaces, so switch them off when exiting the room to conserve energy.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently. The air filter should be cleaned or changed every couple of months, especially when the AC is used frequently. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy. Click here to get even more info on the subject!
Additionally, schedule annual professional maintenance to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and ensure the system is in good condition. Escaping cool air through cracks, gaps, and insufficiently insulated walls can make your AC operate excessively. Check windows, doors, and ducts for leaks, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them.
Insulating your attic and walls effectively can trap cool air indoors, lessening the strain on your AC. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Shut curtains, blinds, or shades when the sun is strongest to keep the heat out.
Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain even further. Activities like cooking, running the dishwasher, or using the dryer can generate heat and make your AC work harder. Plan these activities for the cooler hours of early morning or late evening.
Opting for a microwave or outdoor grill over the oven can lower indoor temperatures. Smart or programmable thermostats enable you to customize a cooling plan that fits your everyday schedule. Program the thermostat to reduce the temperature before you get home and adjust it higher when you’re out. Just click here and check it out!
Advanced smart thermostats can recognize your patterns and modify settings on their own to maximize efficiency. Check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are covering the air vents. Obstructed vents limit airflow, decreasing the efficiency of your AC.
Leave all vents open, including those in unused rooms, to ensure consistent air circulation. Adhering to these suggestions can help you maintain a cool and comfortable home while avoiding excessive AC use and high costs. Optimizing AC use saves energy and supports environmental sustainability by minimizing your carbon emissions.