3 Simple Things You Can Do To Improve The Efficiency Of Your Air Conditioner
An air conditioner is a vital asset in any home during the warm summer months. Keeping your home cooled to a comfortable temperature can use up a lot of energy, resulting in an increase in your monthly utility costs during the winter.
Although you probably don't want to live without the services your air conditioner can provide, there are some simple things you can do to help make your air conditioner more efficient (and more cost-effective) this summer.
1. Insulate exposed ducts.
The cooled air that helps you maintain a comfortable indoor temperature is delivered to the various rooms in your home via a system of air ducts. These ducts could be compromising the efficiency of your air conditioner if they are not insulated properly.
Exposed ducts should be wrapped in insulation to prevent heat transfer as the air moves from your air conditioner through your home. Eliminating heat transfer will keep the transported air colder, reducing the workload of your air conditioner during the hot summer months. Reducing the workload means less energy will be required to cool your home.
2. Keep the outdoor condenser clean.
Cooled air is generated by a condenser unit that is located outside your home. Air from the surrounding environment is drawn into the condenser where it is passed over a series of coils. Refrigerant helps keep these coils cold.
When your outdoor condenser is surrounding by leaves, shrubs, dirt, or other debris, it cannot efficiently intake enough air to meet your home's cooling needs. Take the time to clean your condenser and eliminate any items that might be blocking the intake vent.
You should also consider adding a tarp or awning over your outdoor condenser to reduce the air temperature around the unit. When shaded air is drawn into the condenser, less energy is required to lower the air to the desired temperature.
3. Don't place appliances near the thermostat.
The thermostat is responsible for controlling an air conditioner's production of cooled air. The thermostat records air temperature. If the temperature rises above the set limit, the thermostat will signal the air conditioner to produce cooled air.
If you have a lamp, television, or other heat-producing appliance near your thermostat, these appliances could affect temperature readings. Your thermostat will mistakenly think that it is warmer in your home than it actually is because the heat emitted from the appliances will be registered.
Move appliances away from your thermostat to reduce energy consumption this summer. For more information, contact your local air conditioning service.
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