A/C Efficiency Can Be Improved to Save You Energy Dollars

Posted by admin on July 28, 2014, at 2:16 pm

A/C Efficiency Can Be Improved to Save You Energy DollarsThe hot and humid summers of the Dayton area can be hard on both your air conditioning system and your budget. With the following tips, your A/C efficiency can be improved relatively easily, saving wear and tear on your cooling system and leaving a few more dollars in your pocket:

  • Have the A/C serviced: At least once a year, you should have the A/C inspected by a professional HVAC technician who will perform routine maintenance, which will keep the system running more efficiently and prevent catastrophic failures that could leave you without A/C during the worst of the summer. The maintenance procedure typically includes changing the air filter, lubricating any moving parts, cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, adjusting the system’s airflow, inspecting the electrical system and checking the refrigerant charge. You should also check the air filter yourself monthly and replace it when necessary.
  • Use fans when possible: On mild days, especially in the morning or evening, try to use ceiling fans and portable fans as much as possible to avoid using the A/C. Keep the fans on while running the A/C to help enhance the cooling effect. Consider using a whole-home ventilation system to keep your home more comfortable without using the A/C as often.
  • Minimize heat gain: Shut off unnecessary lights and electronics, and use heat-generating appliances such as the dishwasher or clothes dryer in the evening after it has cooled down. Close the shades or curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the daytime, and minimize humidity by using exhaust fans when you are cooking or bathing.
  • Reduce unnecessary use: When you leave home for the day, raise the thermostat by at least 10 degrees, and if it’s a programmable model, have it start cooling about an hour before you come back. Close all doors and windows when the A/C is on, and if you have a zoned system, raise the temperature in unoccupied rooms.

For more suggestions about how your A/C efficiency can be improved, contact our cooling experts at Henscey Electric, Heating & Air, serving Dayton and the surrounding area.

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