Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
You don’t need to set your thermostat to the lowest possible temperature to stay cool. Target a pleasant temperature range, usually between 75F and 78F. Every degree you raise the thermostat above 72F can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs. View here for more info on this product.
To save power, turn up the thermostat by a few degrees while you’re away. Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler by creating a breeze, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Fans are designed to cool people, not entire rooms, so power them down when you’re not present to save electricity.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently. Replace or clean the air filter every one to two months, particularly during periods of heavy use. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and use more energy. This page has all the info you need.
Book an annual maintenance appointment with a professional to verify refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and ensure the unit is in top shape. Leaks in walls, gaps, and inadequate insulation can let cool air escape, causing the AC to overwork. Inspect windows, doors, and ducts for leaks, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
Good insulation in your attic and walls helps retain cool air, easing the burden on your air conditioner. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Shut curtains, blinds, or shades when the sun is strongest to keep the heat out.
Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain even further. Activities like cooking, running the dishwasher, or using the dryer can generate heat and make your AC work harder. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Using a microwave or outdoor grill instead of the oven can also help reduce indoor heat. With a programmable or smart thermostat, you can create a cooling schedule aligned with your daily activities. Program the thermostat to reduce the temperature before you get home and adjust it higher when you’re out. Just click here and check it out!
Certain smart thermostats can adapt to your routines, automatically changing settings for optimal efficiency. Ensure that furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking air vents. Blocked vents restrict airflow and reduce your AC’s efficiency.
Keep all vents open, even in unused rooms, to maintain proper air circulation throughout your home. 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.