As the temperatures rise, we rely on our air conditioners to keep our homes cool and comfortable. However, regular AC use can cause skyrocketing energy bills that can put a strain on your budget. Fortunately, we have some practical strategies to help you reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption—without sacrificing comfort. 

Set Your Thermostat Higher

The lower you set your thermostat, the more money you’ll spend. If possible, set your thermostat at the highest temperature that keeps your home comfortable. By maintaining a temperature that’s 3 to 5 degrees higher than what you’re accustomed to for around 8 hours, you can potentially save on your annual cooling expenses. Any temperature difference greater than that will cause more power usage.

Keep Sunlight Out

Although sunlight has its benefits, it can quickly cause indoor temperatures to rise on scorching summer days. The sun’s thermal rays bring in additional heat that forces your AC unit to work harder to maintain a cool environment. In turn, this increased workload increases your system’s energy consumption. To prevent this, keep your blinds and curtains closed to help block the sunlight and minimize the strain on your air conditioner. 

Make Sure Your Home is Properly Insulated

Proper insulation is vital for reducing energy consumption. Older homes, in particular, tend to have inadequate insulation, with issues like cracks, worn seals, and weathered materials. If you’re not sure how well-insulated your home is, consider getting a comprehensive home energy audit from your utility provider or a professional contractor. The auditor will thoroughly examine your home for leaks and provide valuable recommendations on how to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. 

Replace Your Air Filters Regularly

Over time, the air filters in our air conditioners accumulate dust and debris that restricts your system’s airflow. When the airflow is blocked, your AC unit needs to work harder to cool your home, leading to increased energy consumption. To avoid this, make sure to clean or replace your air filters before they become clogged. It’s recommended to clean or change your air filters every 30 (if you have pets) to 60 days. This simple maintenance task will ensure smooth, uninterrupted airflow and help your AC unit operate efficiently. 

Keep Appliances Away From Your Thermostat

Your thermostat is sensitive to heat, so it’s important to keep your appliances away from your thermostat. If your thermostat detects a higher temperature near it, it will continue running the AC until the entire area reaches the desired temperature. To prevent unnecessary energy consumption, make sure heat-generating electronics and appliances like TVs, computers, and lamps are located away from your thermostat. This will help it accurately measure the ambient temperate and allow your AC unit to operate efficiently without unnecessary cooling cycles. 

Use Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans do a great job of making you feel cooler at a 3-5 degree higher temperature because the air blowing across your skin evaporates skin moisture = feel cooler.

Sign Up for a Maintenance Plan

Routine maintenance is crucial to keep your AC unit running efficiently, as well as for preventing breakdowns and repairs. To keep your maintenance on schedule, it’s highly recommended to sign up for a maintenance plan. At PECO Heating & Cooling, we offer a Planned Maintenance Agreement that includes two yearly maintenance visits. Our technicians will inspect and ensure that all the essential components are clean, and replace any damaged or faulty parts. By investing in regular AC maintenance, you not only extend the lifespan of your unit but also maximize its energy-saving potential. 

Replace Your Old Unit

AC units that are older than 10 years old usually need major repairs. The more frequently your AC needs repairs, the more likely it will become less efficient over time. When the time comes to replace it consider selecting an HVAC / AC System with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER/SEER2). A high SEER rating means the unit offers superior energy efficiency for reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. 

Beat the Heat with PECO Heating & Cooling

Whether you need AC maintenance, repairs, or an upgrade to a more efficient system, the skilled team at PECO Heating & Cooling is dedicated to keeping you cool throughout the summer! Say goodbye to inefficient cooling and take control of your comfort. Contact PECO Heating & Cooling today at (864) 639-2424.  

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