Tips for Optimizing Your AC in Scorching Climates
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Aim for a comfortable setting, typically between 75F and 78F. Raising the thermostat by a single degree over 72F may cut your cooling bills by as much as 3%. Here’s the link to learn more about the awesome product here.
To save power, turn up the thermostat by a few degrees while you’re away. By generating a breeze, ceiling fans can enhance the coolness of a room, enabling you to increase the thermostat setting slightly while staying comfortable. 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. Replace or clean the air filter every one to two months, particularly during periods of heavy use. Clogged filters limit airflow, forcing the AC to operate less efficiently and consume more power. Click here to get even more info on the subject!
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.
Insulating your attic and walls effectively can trap cool air indoors, lessening the strain 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.
Blackout curtains or reflective window film can be effective in further reducing heat buildup. Tasks such as cooking, operating the dishwasher, or drying clothes can produce heat, increasing the workload on your AC. Perform these chores during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Choosing a microwave or outdoor grill rather than the oven can help keep your home cooler. Smart or programmable thermostats enable you to customize a cooling plan that fits your everyday schedule. 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. Ensure that furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking air vents. Obstructed vents limit airflow, decreasing the efficiency of your AC.
Leave all vents open, including those in unused rooms, to ensure consistent air circulation. Adhering to these suggestions can help you maintain a cool and comfortable home while avoiding excessive AC use and high costs. Using your AC efficiently conserves energy and contributes to environmental protection by lowering your carbon footprint.