Tips for Optimizing Your AC in Scorching Climates
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Target a pleasant temperature range, usually between 75F and 78F. Every degree you raise the thermostat above 72F can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs. View here for more info on this product.
To save power, turn up the thermostat by a few degrees while you’re away. The airflow from ceiling fans can make a space feel cooler, letting you adjust the thermostat higher without losing comfort. 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. Clean or replace the air filter every 1-2 months, especially during peak usage. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy. This website has all you need to learn more about this topic.
Book an annual maintenance appointment with a professional to verify refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure the unit is in top shape. Leaks in walls, gaps, and inadequate insulation can let cool air escape, causing the AC to overwork. Inspect windows, doors, and ducts for leaks, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
Proper insulation in your attic and walls can also help keep cool air inside, reducing the load on your AC. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s rays.
Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain even further. Heat-producing activities like cooking, dishwashing, or laundry can force your AC to work more intensely. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Using a microwave or outdoor grill instead of the oven can also help reduce indoor heat. A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set a cooling schedule that matches your daily routine. Set it to cool the house before you return and increase the temperature when you’re not there. You can read more on the subject here!
Certain smart thermostats can adapt to your routines, automatically changing settings for optimal efficiency. Make sure air vents are not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Blocked vents restrict airflow and reduce your AC’s efficiency.
Open all vents, even in rooms you don’t use, to maintain balanced airflow in your home. Adhering to these suggestions can help you maintain a cool and comfortable home while avoiding excessive AC use and high costs. Efficient AC usage not only saves energy but also helps protect the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.