Know Service and Maintenance “Best Practices” for Saving Money with Your Air Conditioning System

A Little Knowledge Goes a Long Way

As temperatures climb, a good air conditioner counts for everything when it comes to indoor comfort. However, if you don’t really understand your system, cooling your home can lead to hefty energy bills. That’s why  implementing HVAC best practices is so important. Remember, you can keep your home cool while also saving money. Here are some great ways to maximize efficiency while minimizing costs:

Your most important best practice: regular maintenance. 

Just like any other machine, air conditioners require regular upkeep to perform at their best. Take a moment to schedule annual maintenance with a qualified technician to clean filters, check refrigerant levels, and inspect for any burgeoning issues. Remember, a well-maintained unit operates more efficiently than a neglected one.  In turn, you’ll reduce energy consumption and prolong the lifespan of your system, while keeping utility costs as low as possible.

Think about upgrading to energy-efficient equipment.

If your air conditioner is outdated, it’s definitely time to think about upgrading. You’d be amazed at how energy efficient newer units are, and how much cheaper they can be to run. Look for HVAC with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, as they consume less energy while they have the same cooling capacity. Long-term savings on your utility bills, and current tax breaks add to the benefits.

Optimize your thermostat settings.

Take advantage of programmable or smart thermostats to customize your cooling schedule to your lifestyle. Adjust the thermostat based on when you’re at home, asleep, or away. By raising the temperature a few degrees when the house is empty, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and save real money.

Seal and insulate your home.

The right insulation and sealing are crucial for keeping cool air inside and hot air out. Seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and ductwork to prevent air leaks. Additionally, consider adding insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to further improve energy efficiency. A well-insulated home requires less cooling, leading to … you guessed it… lower energy bills!

Use fans to circulate air.

Ceiling  and portable fans can help your air conditioner cool by circulating air more effectively throughout your home. Using fans allows you to raise the thermostat temperature without sacrificing comfort, as the moving air creates a cooling effect on your skin. This can help reduce the workload on your air conditioner and lower your energy costs, too.

Close curtains and blinds during the day.

Direct sunlight streaming through windows  heats up your home fast, forcing your air conditioner to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. Keep curtains and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s rays and prevent  heat gain. This simple practice can significantly reduce your utility bills all summer long.

Schedule nighttime cooling.

Take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures by naturally ventilating your home. Open windows and use fans to draw in cool air and create cross-ventilation. This lets you give your air conditioner a break during the cooler hours, reducing energy consumption and saving money, too!

Consider shade.

Did you know installing awnings, planting trees, or using exterior shades can help reduce the amount of heat entering your home? By blocking light through windows and walls and giving shade to your home’s exterior, you can lower indoor temperatures. Your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to keep things comfortable, and you can let your summer utility spend cool off too.

Stay on top of air filter replacements.

Clogged or dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing your air conditioner to work harder.. Check your air filters regularly and replace them as needed, typically every 1-3 months. This simple maintenance task improves airflow, reduces energy consumption, and reduces utility bills almost immediately.

Best practices come about for a reason: because they work. Keep your home cool and comfortable while also saving money on energy bills. Remember, indoor comfort doesn’t have to be expensive!

Not sure how to change your HVAC filter? Wondering if it’s time for a new air conditioning system? Call the experts at Air-Tro. We’re the HVAC company trusted by the San Gabriel Valley and beyond for all their heating and cooling needs. (626)357-3535.