Expert Tips & Tricks on How to Improve AC Efficiency

Discover expert secrets on how to improve AC efficiency, lower energy bills, and enjoy a comfortable home in this article. It’s time to maximize your air conditioner’s potential…

How to Improve AC Efficiency
Image by Sprinter_Lucio

AC Energy-Saving Tips [How to Improve AC Efficiency]

Saving energy can help you improve your AC efficiency and save money. Here are some tricks you can try…

Optimize Thermostat Settings

Reduce your thermostat setting by 7° to 10°F from the normal setting. This can save you up to 10% on your energy bills without sacrificing comfort according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 

Investing in a is a smart move too. This gadget adjusts the temperature automatically according to your schedule, saving energy when you’re not home. Plus, it’s super easy to use.

Lastly, avoid setting extreme temperatures on your thermostat. Doing so won’t cool your home faster but it will definitely increase your energy consumption.

Properly Insulate Your Home

Good insulation is crucial for energy efficiency as it ensures that the cool air doesn’t escape outside. If that happens, your AC unit will have to do more work to keep the space cool which will reduce its efficiency. 

To ensure your home is properly insulated, seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets with weatherstripping or . This will prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering.

Upgrading your window insulation can make a noticeable difference. Consider installing double-pane windows or using insulating window film to reduce heat transfer.

Don’t forget about your walls and attic, either. Adding insulation to these areas can significantly lower your cooling costs. 

Check out these other related articles

Discover the Best Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners         

Ultimate Guide to AC Efficiency Ratings 

Expert Tips to Slash Air Conditioner Electricity Consumption       

Discover the Power of High-Efficiency Air Conditioning  

Uncover the Secrets of Cooling Efficiency Factors            

Top Tips on How to Reduce Air Conditioning Costs          

Ultimate Guide to AC Energy Efficiency Comparisons      

Boost your Air Conditioner Efficiency

Here are some of the ways you can get the most out of your air conditioner…

Maintain Clean Air Filters

Clean filters are essential for a well-functioning AC. Dirty filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, using more energy in the process. Plus, they can lead to poor indoor air quality.

Replace or clean your filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and type. If you have pets or allergy sufferers at home, consider changing them even more frequently. 

Consult your AC’s user manual to learn how to clean or replace the air filters. If you can’t do it yourself, hire a qualified technician to get the job done. 

When replacing the filter, choosing the right filter is important. Purchase a filter with a MERV rating of 8-12 for the best balance of airflow and filtration. However, confirm that the MERV rating you choose is recommended by your AC manufacturer. 

Keep Condenser and Evaporator Coils Clean

Dirty coils can hinder your AC’s efficiency big time. When dust and debris build up on the coils, they can’t absorb or release heat effectively. This, in turn, will cause your AC to work overtime.

A good rule of thumb is to clean the coils at least once a year, ideally during your annual AC maintenance visit.

To clean the coils, switch off your AC unit before you begin. You can do this by turning off the breaker or disconnecting the power supply.

Find the condenser coils in your outdoor unit and the evaporator coils in the indoor unit. For a window AC, both coils are inside the unit. You may need to remove some panels or covers to access them.

Take a close look at the coils. If you see a layer of dust or debris, it’s time for cleaning. Remember, even a thin layer can impact your AC’s performance.

Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove loose debris from the coils. Be careful not to bend the delicate fins or damage the coils.

Spray a onto the coils. This cleaner breaks down dirt and grime without damaging the coils. Follow the instructions on the product label, and always wear protective gear.

Allow the cleaner to work its magic for the recommended time, usually around 10-15 minutes. The foam will break down, taking the dirt with it.

For outdoor condenser coils, you can gently rinse them with a hose after the cleaner has done its job. However, be cautious not to spray water into electrical components.

Put everything back together, switch on the power, and enjoy your clean, efficient AC!

Note: The steps above provide a general guide for all types of AC units. The steps for your AC model might vary. Therefore, in addition to these steps, it’s best to consult your unit’s user manual as well. 

If the process looks complicated, hire a professional technician. 

Ensure Proper Airflow

Keep your outdoor unit clear of obstructions like plants and debris to maintain efficient airflow. Aim for at least two feet of clearance around the unit.

Don’t forget to clean and adjust your air vents. Vacuum dust and debris from vents, and ensure they’re open and unblocked by furniture or curtains.

Finally, check for duct leaks and insulation issues. Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of your AC’s energy output. Consider hiring a pro for duct sealing and insulation.

Professional Maintenance and Repairs

Professional servicing is key to keeping your AC running efficiently. It helps prevent breakdowns, extends the life of your system, and saves you money on energy bills.

Schedule a maintenance visit at least once a year, preferably before the cooling season begins. This way, you’ll avoid any unpleasant surprises during those hot summer days.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will inspect and clean components, check refrigerant levels, and ensure everything is running smoothly. It’s worth the investment!

Here are some common AC problems that can affect your AC efficiency and requires the skills of a professional to fix:

Refrigerant leaks: This can also damage the compressor. 

Electrical issues: This includes faulty wiring or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Compressor and fan failures: In some cases, this can lead to a complete system breakdown. 

Replace your AC

Sometimes, replacing the air conditioner is the best solution. This is especially true if your AC is more than 10-15 years old. Newer models are generally more energy-efficient.

Whenever you have to repair your AC, weigh the cost-benefit of repairing vs. replacing. If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new unit, it’s probably time for an upgrade.

When getting a new AC, consider energy efficiency ratings such as the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). Higher numbers indicate better efficiency. Upgrading to a higher-rated system can result in significant energy savings.

Leave a Comment