2020 tied with 2016 as the hottest year we’ve had on record.
Even if 2021 doesn’t reach those record highs, we can expect a hot summer ahead. There’s nothing like the cooling relief of your AC to beat that heat. But if you’re not taking care of your AC efficiency, you could be left without this necessity very quickly.
Ensuring that your air conditioning is working at its best doesn’t require a lot of time and effort. And, in the end, the time and effort it does take are well worth lower energy bills and a unit that will last for years to come.
Keep reading to learn how you can improve the cooling efficiency of your AC.
1. Change the Filter
Changing your filter is one of the most important things you can do for AC efficiency. A dirty filter doesn’t allow proper airflow, which means your machine works harder than it has to.
While most AC repair and maintenance should be completed by professionals, changing an air filter is easy enough to do on your own. All you have to do is slide the old filter out and replace it with a new one.
You can find out how often you should be doing this by consulting your manufacturer’s guidebook. But be aware that during hot summer months, you should probably change it more frequently.
2. Pay Attention to the Actual AC Unit
The outdoor AC unit requires significant airflow to work efficiently. That means it should be clear on all sides. There are a few things you can do to ensure that’s happening, including:
- Trimming plants, bushes, trees, and grass around the unit.
- Removing leaves and other debris that buildup around the unit.
- Cleaning the unit of any debris and dirt that may have built up when it wasn’t in use.
You should also be aware of this fact if you’re planning to do your landscape. Ensure that any landscaping objects are at least 3 feet away from the unit.
3. Keep Vents Open and Unobstructed
Sometimes, we close off vents to rooms we don’t use as much to try and conserve the cool air for the rest of the house. When it comes to AC efficiency, this is a no-no. Closing vents actually causes your machine to work harder.
Check out every room in your home and ensure that your vents are open. You should also make sure that they’re unobstructed. That means moving rugs, curtains, and furniture so that vents can do their job.
4. Raise Your Thermostat Setting
Setting your thermostat lower than you need it to be is not the best way to cool your home. While you may think that this will cool your home faster, AC units don’t work that way.
All you’re really doing is making your AC work longer and harder. This isn’t just inefficient, it will also lead to higher energy bills. Instead, raise the temperature to a reasonable and comfortable level.
Improve AC Efficiency With Regular AC Maintenance
With the summer coming up, it’s imperative that your air conditioning is working effectively. To improve AC efficiency, you can change your filter, clean up debris on and around your unit, keep your vents open, and raise your thermostat.
And to even better ensure that your AC will work for you throughout the summer, call us for regular AC maintenance.
Schedule an AC Maintenance
Would you like to schedule a visit with an incredible North Port AC company? Contact Bowersox Air Conditioning & Heating to speak to our team.
