A Quick Rundown of
Tips for Optimizing Your AC in Scorching Climates
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Set the thermostat to a cozy level, often within the 75F to 78F range. 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.
When you’re not at home, adjust the thermostat a few degrees higher to conserve energy. Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler by creating a breeze, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.
Maintaining your AC regularly is crucial for optimal performance. The air filter should be cleaned or changed every couple of months, especially when the AC is used frequently. When filters are dirty, airflow is reduced, causing the AC to strain and increase energy consumption. 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. 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.
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. Draw curtains, blinds, or shades during peak sunlight hours to prevent the sun from heating your home.
Think about installing blackout curtains or reflective window film to minimize heat absorption. 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.
Using a microwave or outdoor grill instead of the oven can also help reduce indoor heat. With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can create a cooling schedule aligned with your daily activities. Set it to cool the house before you return and increase the temperature when you’re not there. Click here for more helpful tips on this company.
Certain smart thermostats can adapt to your routines, automatically changing settings for optimal efficiency. Check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are covering the air vents. 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.
