Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
You don’t need to set your thermostat to the lowest possible temperature to stay cool. Set the thermostat to a cozy level, often within the 75F to 78F range. Raising the thermostat by a single degree over 72F may cut your cooling bills by as much as 3%. View here for more info on this product.
When you’re not at home, adjust the thermostat a few degrees higher to conserve energy. By generating a breeze, ceiling fans can enhance the coolness of a room, enabling you to increase the thermostat setting slightly while staying comfortable. Keep in mind that fans cool individuals, not spaces, so switch them off when exiting the room to conserve energy.
Consistent upkeep is essential for ensuring your AC operates at peak efficiency. Clean or replace the air filter every 1-2 months, especially during peak usage. Clogged filters limit airflow, forcing the AC to operate less efficiently and consume more power. This page has all the info you need.
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.
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. Plan these activities for the cooler hours of early morning or late evening.
Choosing a microwave or outdoor grill rather than the oven can help keep your home cooler. 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. You can read more on the subject here!
Some smart thermostats even learn your habits and adjust settings automatically for maximum efficiency. Make sure air vents are not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. When vents are blocked, airflow is restricted, making your AC less efficient.
Keep all vents open, even in unused rooms, to maintain proper air circulation throughout your home. Following these guidelines will allow you to enjoy a cool home without straining your AC or overspending. Using your AC efficiently conserves energy and contributes to environmental protection by lowering your carbon footprint.