The warm, long days of spring are already here. It is time to get your air conditioner back running smoothly again after sitting in the corner for months. To make sure your AC is up for the task, do not forget to have your system serviced by a qualified technician in early spring.
Besides professional care and maintenance, you also have a responsibility to help your AC perform at its best. Here are 5 helpful tips to keep your AC running efficiently and save energy at home.
Add insulation to your home
One best way to increase the efficiency of your air conditioner is to add insulation to critical areas in your home. These include your attic, crawlspaces, basement, and garage. Air leaks usually occur in these spaces, which puts an additional load on your air conditioner. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners can save an average of 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by adding insulation and air sealing the home.
Check your air filters regularly
The condition of your air filters can make a huge difference in your AC performance. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on these air filters, which leads to restricted airflow. This is usually the reason behind improper cooling or temperature imbalance in your home. The U.S. Department of Energy says regularly cleaning and replacing air filters is an important maintenance task that will ensure system efficiency and reduce cooling costs by 5 percent to 15 percent.
Provide enough clearance on all sides of the unit
Air conditioners need to have sufficient space on each of their sides to operate properly. You should avoid storing household items near or around your indoor unit. Similarly, you should get rid of leaves, branches, and other debris collected on your outdoor unit. Industry experts recommend providing a minimum of 12 inches of clearance around all sides of the air conditioner and 5 inches of clearance above it.
Use your thermostat wisely
Simply adjusting your thermostat every time you arrive and leave home will help your AC cool your home better and with fewer energy costs. According to the DOE, you can save as much as 10 percent a year on cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7° to 10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting. Forgetting to adjust the thermostat is a usual occurrence among homeowners. To avoid leaving your AC on full blast when there is no one to enjoy it, consider installing a smart thermostat. It will allow you to control your home temperature even when you are away for work or vacation.
Inspect your AC for leaks or damages
You can avoid a dangerous AC breakdown and save money on repairs by regularly checking the system for damages. Watch out for signs that tell your AC is at risk of breaking down. These include leaks around the unit, warm air coming out of the vents, and unusual sounds and smells.
Do not hesitate to ask for the help of professionals when it comes to your AC Repair Port St. Lucie. There are many benefits to partnering with a licensed and experienced HVAC company, including 24/7 emergency service, on-time arrival, upfront pricing, and 100% service satisfaction. Book an appointment with your trusted local AC contractors now!
