As the hotter months get closer, you may wonder how to keep your home cool and comfortable without your energy costs soaring. The secret lies in using your AC more efficiently. Follow these 12 simple tips and strategies to keep your HVAC system in optimal condition, decrease energy consumption and save money.
1. Leave the Thermostat Alone
Constantly changing the thermostat makes your air conditioner work harder, raising energy consumption and causing excessive wear and tear. To optimize efficiency, set the temperature at a comfortable level—preferably around 78 degrees F (25 degrees C)—when you’re inside the residence. After that, refrain from touching it. If you get overheated, take off a layer of clothing, spray water on your skin or turn on a fan to cool off without turning down the temperature.
2. Set the Temperature Back When You’re Away
For maximum savings, set the temperature 7-10 degrees higher than your standard setting for at least eight hours per day. To help you “set it and forget it,” think about setting up a programmable thermostat. This convenient upgrade allows you to set temperatures based on your daily routines, automatically modifying the temperature to create a comfortable home when you’re there and conserving energy when you’re away.
3. Keep the Curtains Closed
Solar heat gain from direct sunlight forces your cooling system to work more than it has to. To reduce heat gain, close the curtains over your south- and west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day. Window coverings with light-colored backings reflect sunlight the best.
4. Keep the Vents Open
Blocked or closed air vents throw off your air conditioning system’s supply/return air balance, decreasing efficiency and raising operating costs. To prevent this, make sure to have at least 80 percent of your supply registers open and ensure that no return vents are blocked by curtains, furniture or rugs.
5. Create Airflow with Fans
Running fans along with your HVAC system circulates cool air more efficiently, making your home feel more comfortable while barely increasing energy consumption. Ceiling fans, in particular, create a wind chill effect that makes the room feel about 4 degrees cooler, allowing you to set the temperature higher without sacrificing comfort.
6. Get Rid of Hot and Humid Air
Cooking and showering generate heat and moisture. Turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans during these activities to lower your home’s cooling load. Additionally, make sure your clothes dryer vents to the outdoors to prevent hot, humid air from releasing into your house.
7. Use a Dehumidifier
Elevated humidity levels cause your home to feel cool but clammy, tempting you to turn down the temperature. A dehumidifier takes out excess moisture, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable while using much less electricity than using the air conditioner.
8. Install Your Outdoor AC Unit in the Shade
The outdoor unit’s location influences its effectiveness considerably. Installing it on your home’s north or east side protects the unit from the afternoon heat for more effective heat transfer. If the unit gets direct sunlight at the hottest hours of the day, consider planting a tree or installing a screen to shade it. Just make sure that any plant or structure you add doesn’t impede airflow.
9. Save Your Chores for the Evening
Cooking, laundry and dishwashing create indoor heat gain, making your air conditioner work harder. Completing these tasks at night when temperatures are cooler reduces the cooling load during the hottest time of the day and saves energy.
10. Replace the Air Filter
A filthy filter restricts airflow and increases energy consumption, so replace it routinely to promote maximum performance. The majority of basic filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, but its best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct replacement schedule for your product.
11. Seal and Insulate the Ductwork
Leaky, uninsulated ducts squander significant amounts of energy, especially if they run through unconditioned spaces such as the attic, crawl space or garage. Sealing and insulating your ductwork preserves system efficiency and lowers energy costs.
12. Schedule Preventative AC Maintenance
Regular tune-ups are essential to keep your air conditioner running properly. Employ a licensed specialist to inspect, clean and service your system every spring. This precautionary measure extends your AC’s life span, reduces energy consumption, and allows the technician to uncover and fix potential issues before they become expensive problems.
Request Air Conditioning Service in Richmond
At Eveready Service Experts , we pride ourselves on offering extensive AC services, such as installation, maintenance, repair and replacement in Richmond. Our customers choose us again and again for our unmatched know-how and devotion to customer satisfaction. In fact, we offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee on every service we provide! Work with our crew at to keep your home cool, comfortable and energy efficient this summer.