Did you know that your HVAC use accounts for about half of all your household energy use? Therefore, it makes sense that you would want to do everything in your power to ensure that you’re using your air conditioner as efficiently as possible this summer. Problems can plague cooling systems if they are neglected, or even as they age, but that doesn’t mean that yours has to drain your wallet.
We’d like to share with you some ways in which to improve your air conditioner’s energy performance so that it can actually help you save money on your energy costs. And when you need reliable air conditioning services in Wilmette, IL, you know you can turn to us. But in the meantime, read on for some great energy and money saving tips.
Raise the Thermostat
We understand the temptation of pushing the thermostat down to the lowest setting when the heat outside becomes unbearable. And most thermostats can be set as low as 60°F. However, that doesn’t mean they should be. On average, most people are comfortable at 78 degrees, and each degree you raise the thermostat during the summer equates to energy savings.
It’s also important to remember that even efficient air conditioners can struggle to cool a home to a temperature setting that is over 20°F cooler than it is outside—forcing your AC to work too hard to do its job will cost you unnecessary energy and money.
Keep the Outside Unit Unobstructed
The outdoor cabinet of your cooling system is called the condenser unit, and in order for your AC system to work at full efficiency, the condenser must be able to expel heat to the outdoors.
If your condenser unit is surrounded by dirt, leaves, branches, mulch, or even lawn clippings, it can and will make your AC work harder. Be sure to clean up this area so your condenser has a foot of space clear on all sides for maximum system efficiency.
Vacuum Vent Covers
You might not realize it, but dust all over your vent covers can cost you in cooling efficiency as well. Take a walk through your home and locate all your room vent covers. Many are on the ceiling or down on the floor. Ensure that they are unobstructed, and then use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove dust from them. You may be surprised to find how caked in they can get, and how much this cleaning can improve airflow and AC efficiency.
Look at Your Thermostat Placement
Your thermostat can pick up incorrect temperature readings, called “ghost readings,” if not strategically installed in your home. This can happen if the thermostat is in direct sunlight, or even if other heat-producing appliances are near it.
This can make your air conditioner run at the wrong time, which means wasted energy. If you can move appliances away from your thermostat, we recommend doing so. If you need to have your thermostat moved, then give our professionals a call!
Contact Shavitz Heating and Air Conditioning for superior AC services throughout Chicagoland.