Practical Tips To Help You Maintain AC Efficiency
TL;DR: Air conditioning is crucial in states like Texas due to oppressive summer heat. Maintaining your AC is key for efficiency and longevity. Tips include replacing/cleaning filters monthly, ensuring proper insulation, using programmable thermostats, sealing ductwork, optimizing airflow, upgrading to energy-efficient models, utilizing window treatments, and scheduling regular maintenance checks. Avoid DIY repairs and skipping annual maintenance. Professional service like Thermodynamics Mechanical in Mesquite, Texas, can ensure your AC runs smoothly for years to come.
Air conditioning is becoming an almost indispensable part of life in many parts of the US. Having an AC is necessary in states like Texas, where the summer heat can be downright oppressive. According to the latest census, almost 10,623.4 housing units in Texas have at least one AC.
Air conditioning systems are a significant investment for many homeowners, so you want them to be durable and efficient for as long as possible. Your AC must be in top working order to keep your home at the perfect temperature and keep your energy bills in check. You can achieve that with regular check-ups and minor maintenance tasks.
This article will give practical tips for maintaining peak efficiency in your AC year-round. Whether you’re looking to improve performance, reduce energy consumption, or extend the life of your unit, these tips can make a big difference.
Regularly Replace or Clean Air Filters
As a homeowner, you can always clean the air filters yourself. If they are dirty or clogged, they make the AC work harder and can decrease its efficiency. When these filters are clean, air flows smoothly through the system, reducing the energy the AC uses by up to 15%.
You should check the filters every month, especially during summer and winter. If they are dirty, don’t hesitate to clean or replace them. You can pop them out and rinse them under a tap or gently vacuum them to remove the dust layer. If they’re beyond cleaning, replacing them is just as easy. Most home improvement stores carry a wide range of filters, and swapping out the old one for a new one is a task you can do yourself.
Have Proper Insulation
Insulation helps maintain the indoor temperature by preventing the conditioned air from escaping while blocking the outside air from getting in. You can check around windows and doors for leaks to see if your house is well insulated.
You might feel drafts or notice a difference in temperature near these areas. Sealing these leaks with weatherstripping or caulking can make a big difference. Also, consider adding or upgrading insulation in your attic or walls. These steps can improve your AC’s efficiency and save you 15% on cooling and heating expenses.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to set the air conditioning system at different temperatures throughout the day. You can match your cooling or heating needs to your schedule, so you’re not wasting energy on an empty house. For example, you would set a higher temperature when you’re out for work and lower it right before you return.
The Department of Energy recommends setting the day temperature around 68°F to 70° in winter and lowering it a few degrees at night. It’s wise to keep the temperature settings within a close range and avoid extreme fluctuations to prevent your AC from working overtime.
Check and Seal Ductwork
Leaks in your ductwork can significantly sabotage your AC’s efficiency. When air escapes through these leaks, your system has to work overtime to maintain temperature, leading to an unnecessary strain on your unit. You can detect leaks by feeling for drafts around the duct connections or noticing a spike in your energy costs without a change in usage.
While you might want to tackle duct sealing on your own using duct tape, it’s often a temporary fix that doesn’t address the root of the problem. On the other hand, professional sealing involves a thorough inspection and specialized materials that ensure a durable and effective seal.
Optimize Air Flow
When you block AC vents with furniture or curtains, you prevent your unit from achieving optimal efficiency. Take a look around your space and position your sofa, bed, and other large pieces of furniture away from the vents. Similarly, check your curtains or blinds. You might need to rearrange them or opt for shorter or sheer options.
Another smart move is integrating ceiling fans into your rooms. They can circulate air more effectively so it spreads evenly throughout your space. This synergy between your AC and ceiling will maintain a consistently comfortable temperature in your home without overworking your AC unit.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model
Modern, energy-efficient models use less energy to cool or heat your place. Over time, the initial investment in a more efficient unit pays off through significantly reduced energy bills. These newer models often have features that improve the unit’s lifespan, like programmable thermostats and better air filtration systems. Upgrading to an energy-efficient model could be a smart move if you notice the following issues with your old AC unit:
- Its efficiency has declined.
- It can’t cool or heat your home at the same pace.
- Your energy costs are consistently high.
- It makes strange noises or smells.
- It uses an old type of refrigerant like R-22.
Use Window Treatments
By managing how much sunlight enters your rooms, you can control indoor temperatures and reduce the workload of your AC. You have many window treatment options, from blackout curtains to light-filtering shades. They can block or diffuse sunlight to keep your home cooler during hot days.
During peak sun hours, closing these treatments can prevent heat from building up inside, making it easier for the AC to maintain a comfortable temperature. Opening the treatments can let in natural warmth during cooler parts of the day, giving your AC a well-deserved break. It’s an effective strategy: use heavier, opaque window coverings on windows facing direct sunlight and lighter, reflective treatments for areas receiving indirect light.
Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks
When a trained AC technician inspects your unit, they meticulously assess every component to ensure everything is in working order. This process includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels.
- Examining the thermostat for accuracy.
- Cleaning coils to prevent buildup that can hamper efficiency.
- Inspecting the electrical connections.
- Straightening the fins of the outdoor unit.
- Assess the efficiency of the airflow.
These regular inspections can help your AC system perform at its best, reducing energy bills. But how often should you call in the pros? Our recommendation is to aim for at least once a year. However, if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or if your AC is aging, scheduling bi-annual checks could be a wise move.
What Not To Do
It’s always good to know what little things you can do to help your AC work better, but you also must know what not to do. One common mistake you might make is attempting DIY repairs on your AC without the right know-how. That can cause other problems or even void your warranty.
Another mistake is skipping annual maintenance. You might think your AC is running fine and decide to forgo it this time, but this oversight can cause unexpected breakdowns. Having an AC professional inspect your air conditioning is recommended because they can spot issues you might miss and perform necessary adjustments to keep your AC running smoothly.
Schedule Regular AC Maintenance in Mesquite, Texas
So, now you’ve got the best tips for maintaining peak efficiency in your AC no matter the season. Still, the best tip we can give you is to schedule regular AC maintenance with a professional service.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to give your system the care it deserves – reach out to Thermodynamics Mechanical in Mesquite, Texas, and let’s set up a maintenance schedule together. We will do whatever it takes to keep your AC system running like new for years to come. When you hire us, expect the highest quality inspections, maintenance, and repairs. We can even replace your old AC system with a modern energy-efficient model.
So, take our advice and make an appointment today to keep your AC in good shape in the future.
FAQ
How often should I replace my air filters?
Regularly replacing or cleaning your air filters is essential for maintaining peak efficiency in your AC system. We recommend checking your filters monthly, especially during peak usage seasons like summer and winter. If they appear dirty or clogged, it’s time for a replacement or a thorough cleaning. For personalized advice and assistance, reach out to Thermodynamics Mechanical in Mesquite, Texas.
What are the benefits of scheduling regular AC maintenance checks?
Scheduling regular maintenance checks for your air conditioning system can significantly prolong its lifespan and improve its efficiency. A trained AC technician from Thermodynamics Mechanical can inspect various components of your unit, ensuring everything is in optimal working condition. This includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, and assessing airflow efficiency. Regular maintenance can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your AC running smoothly throughout the year.
How do I know if my AC unit needs to be upgraded to a more energy-efficient model?
There are several signs that indicate it might be time to upgrade your AC unit to a more energy-efficient model. These signs include a decline in efficiency, difficulty in maintaining desired temperatures, consistently high energy costs, strange noises or odors coming from the unit, or if it uses an outdated refrigerant like R-22. For expert advice on whether an upgrade is necessary for your home, contact Thermodynamics Mechanical, serving Mesquite, Texas, and surrounding areas.
Can I perform AC maintenance tasks myself, or should I hire a professional service?
While there are some maintenance tasks, like regularly replacing air filters, that homeowners can perform themselves, it’s often best to leave more complex tasks to professionals. Attempting DIY repairs without the proper knowledge and tools can potentially cause more harm than good and may even void your warranty. For comprehensive and reliable AC maintenance services, trust the experts at Thermodynamics Mechanical. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your AC system stays in top condition.
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