During those hot summer days, users are grateful for the air conditioning system for keeping the home cool and comfortable. But the spike in the monthly utility bill? Not so much.
Ultimately many variables go into keeping cool air circulating in the home while saving money and energy. These tips may also help with wall ac units. That’s why Air-Rite has compiled a list of some of the best ways to improve the efficiency of the air conditioner.
Get the most life out of the AC with these 5 simple solutions.
1) Close the Drapes
Keeping the drapes or blinds closed during warmer weather is a great remedy to saving money and energy
Simple yet resolute, keeping the drapes or blinds closed during warmer weather is a great remedy to saving money and energy. This is especially true during hot summer days when direct sunlight hits the windows of your home.
Unwanted sunlight that enters through the windows cannot escape, in turn, causing the air conditioner to work harder to produce more cool air. When drawing the blinds, especially during midday, this can lower the temperature’s home up to 20 degrees. To take it a step further, consider buying light-colored blinds that reflect rather than absorb the sun’s heat. This will help get the most life out of the ac so it doesn’t work as hard.
2) Inspect the Duct Work
To improve the energy efficiency in the home with an air conditioner, make sure the ductwork that runs through an unconditioned space is properly sealed and intact. This ensures the conditioned air will get to where it needs to go efficiently.
Ducts are passages used in air conditioning that helps with the dispersion and removal of air. If users spot a leak, they can use specialized duct-sealing tape that is UL 181-rated. (Not duct tape, believe it or not, that is not designed for ductwork). However, Air-Rite recommends seeking an HVAC professional to check the ductwork and use an appropriate duct insulating material.
3) Get Smart With the Thermostat
The “smart” technology can control the system automatically and adjust temperature settings during the setback
The right thermostat and setting will surely make a difference when it comes to improving your home’s energy and reducing costs. The “smart” technology can control the system automatically and adjust temperature settings during setback/away periods to allow for optimum recovery efficiency. Since users can access it via smartphone, computer, or tablet, they can adjust the temperature inside the home while a user is away.
Smart thermostats will also learn a household’s patterns and adjust cooling according to when a home is occupied or is about to be occupied. In the end, this device will help reduce energy costs, track energy usage, and control comfort. This can be super helpful for both comfort and effective running of the system. Call Air Rite for a Smart Thermostat installation and take advantage of the smart energy rebates from the utility providers.
4) Take Good Care of Equipment
Like almost everything, if the user takes care of it, it will perform well and last. Routine maintenance, troubleshooting problems, and using an HVAC contractor to maintain equipment can help prolong the life of the unit. Make sure the air conditioning unit is free from shrubbery or foliage, such as “cotton” from Cottonwood trees so it gets the proper amount of airflow. Change air filter routinely, and sign up for filter reminder club to keep track of when to change the filter.
The air conditioner outside has the important job of rejecting the heat is removed from the home. Which means it needs to have lots of room around it for the air to go. Even if the user had spring maintenance performed by the techs, It’s a good idea to check in on it throughout the season to ensure there is adequate space around the unit. Trim back any overgrown shrubs and gently hose down any debris that may have built upon the outside coils of the unit.
5) Change Direction of Ceiling Fan
Changing the direction of the ceiling fan can improve air circulation
Often an overlooked remedy, changing the direction of the ceiling fan can improve air circulation. During the summer, ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise. This pushes cool air down to the floor and makes the home feel cooler without affecting the room temperature (meaning the user can use less energy and get the most out of ac).
How To Check If Ceiling Fan Is Going Clockwise
To check to see if the ceiling fan is moving in the right direction, turn on the fan, and stand directly under the fan blade. The ceiling fan blades should move from the top left, then down to the right, and back to the top. If the user is standing underneath the ceiling and doesn’t feel air movement this means the fan is spinning clockwise.
To turn it counterclockwise, shut off the ceiling fan, and wait until the blades completely stop. Then, use a ladder or step stool to reach the fan and locate the direction switch. Turn the switch in the opposite direction and turn on the ceiling fan once more to ensure it’s moving in the right direction. Ceiling fans are good for cooling people, not rooms. To save energy, turn it off when leaving the room.
How Long Is The Life Of An Air Conditioner?
The average cost to replace an air conditioning unit can range from $3,000 to $5,000
Most central Air conditioner units last about 10-15 years, depending on how well it’s been kept. And the average cost to replace an air conditioning unit can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Getting the most life out of the ac can be easy when these tips are put into place. Simple things like checking the ductwork and using fans can help extend the life of the air conditioning because it’s working less to provide that cool air.
Keep Home Cool
With over 60 years of dependable HVAC services, Air-Rite Heating & Cooling is a team to trust. It performs exceptional HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair across The Greater Chicago land area including Burr Ridge, Wheaton, Huntley, Aurora, Vernon Hills, Naperville, and more.