Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
Keeping the thermostat at the coldest level isn’t required to maintain a cool environment. Aim for a comfortable setting, typically between 75F and 78F. Raising the thermostat by a single degree over 72F may cut your cooling bills by as much as 3%. Here’s the link to learn more about the awesome product here.
If you’re away from home, set the thermostat a few degrees higher to save 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. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.
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. Clogged filters limit airflow, forcing the AC to operate less efficiently and consume more power. This page has all the info you need.
Arrange for yearly professional servicing to inspect refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and confirm the system’s proper functioning. Cool air can escape through cracks, gaps, and poorly insulated walls, forcing your AC to work overtime. Examine windows, doors, and ducts for any leaks, then seal them using weatherstripping or caulk.
Good insulation in your attic and walls helps retain cool air, easing the burden on your air conditioner. The sun’s rays passing through windows can cause your home to heat up considerably. Draw curtains, blinds, or shades during peak sunlight hours to prevent the sun from heating your home.
Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain even further. Heat-producing activities like cooking, dishwashing, or laundry can force your AC to work more intensely. 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. Make sure air vents are not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. When vents are blocked, airflow is restricted, making your AC less efficient.
Keep all vents open, even in unused rooms, to maintain proper air circulation throughout 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.
Citation: link