Posted: August 19, 2024
When you’re facing the scorching heat of summer, you turn to your central air conditioning system to maintain a comfortable indoor environment for you and your family. However, running your central air conditioning system can significantly increase your energy consumption and utility bills. You can find cost-effective comfort by implementing a few energy-efficient strategies that will help you keep your home cool while minimizing your energy use and your utility bills.
Here are some practical tips to help you achieve better energy efficiency with your central air conditioning system.
One of the most effective ways to ensure your central air conditioning system runs efficiently is through regular maintenance. Schedule annual check-ups with an Ace-Robbins HVAC technician. We’ll inspect and service your system. This includes cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring all components are in good working condition. A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and prolonging the lifespan of the unit.
The task of keeping your air conditioning properly maintained becomes easier and repairs become much more affordable when you enroll in the Ace-Robbins Cooling Maintenance Plan. For less than the cost of a typical repair, you’ll get our annual multipoint tune-up to keep your system running at peak efficiency, which helps hold cooling costs down.
Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your air conditioning system to work harder to cool your home. This not only increases energy usage but can also lead to system breakdowns. Check your air filters monthly and replace them as needed, typically every one to three months. Clean filters improve airflow, enhance indoor air quality, and boost your system’s efficiency.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring that your air conditioning system isn’t running unnecessarily when you’re not home. For instance, you can program the thermostat to increase the temperature during the day when the house is empty and lower it just before you return. This simple adjustment can lead to significant energy savings.
Your home’s proper insulation and sealing are crucial for maintaining energy efficiency. Leaks around windows, doors, and ducts allow cool air to escape and hot air to enter, making your air conditioner work harder. Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk and consider adding insulation to your attic, walls, and ducts. A well-insulated home retains cool air more effectively, reducing the workload on your air conditioning system. You’ll also reap the rewards of good insulation and sealing during the winter months when they’ll help keep warm air in and cold air out.
Ceiling fans can complement your central air conditioning system by improving air circulation and creating a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. This allows you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people not rooms. So be sure to turn off the fans when you leave the room to save energy.
Setting your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature can greatly impact energy savings. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re at home and need cooling. Each degree you raise the thermostat can save about 3-5% on cooling costs. When you’re away or sleeping, consider increasing the temperature to save even more.
Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly increase the temperature inside your home, making your air conditioning system work harder. Close blinds and curtains during the sunniest parts of the day to block out the heat. Consider using reflective or blackout curtains for even greater temperature control.
If your central air conditioning system is over ten years old, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Modern units with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating use less energy to cool your home, leading to lower utility bills. While there will certainly be costs associated with upgrading, the long-term savings and improved comfort should it worthwhile.
If you’re looking to upgrade, call on the professionals at Ace-Robbins. We provide expert central air conditioning installation, and we can help you save money with manufacturer incentives and rebates.
By following the tips outlined above, you can enhance the energy efficiency of your central air conditioning system, reduce your environmental footprint, and save money on your energy bills. Small changes can make a big difference, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable throughout the summer without breaking the bank.
You can count on Ace-Robbins to keep you comfortable with our full range of cooling services for central air conditioning systems. We offer affordable rates for installation, repair, and service in Bradford, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Susquehanna, Sullivan, and Wyoming County.
Contact Ace-Robbins today to schedule your next service visit, to enroll in our Cooling Maintenance Plan, or to request a no-obligation consultation.