SON SON
Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
Lowering the thermostat to its minimum setting isn’t necessary for staying comfortable. Set the thermostat to a cozy level, often within the 75F to 78F range. Increasing the thermostat by just one degree above 72F can reduce cooling expenses by up to 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. Fans are designed to cool people, not entire rooms, so power them down when you’re not present to save electricity.
Maintaining your AC regularly is crucial for optimal performance. The air filter should be cleaned or changed every couple of months, especially when the AC is used frequently. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy. This page has all the info you need.
Additionally, schedule annual professional maintenance to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and ensure the system is in good condition. Escaping cool air through cracks, gaps, and insufficiently insulated walls can make your AC operate excessively. Examine windows, doors, and ducts for any leaks, then seal them using weatherstripping or caulk.
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. Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s rays.
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. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
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. Click here for more helpful tips on this company.
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. Blocked vents restrict airflow and reduce your AC’s efficiency.
Open all vents, even in rooms you don’t use, to maintain balanced airflow in your home. Following these guidelines will allow you to enjoy a cool home without straining your AC or overspending. Efficient AC usage not only saves energy but also helps protect the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.