It has been estimated by the United States Department of Energy that heating and cooling bills constitute over half of our utility expenses. As a consequence of this, air conditioning is the largest energy expense of a typical house. Taking into account the importance of air conditioning we need to make sure that conditioner is running at full capacity. In this regard, the energy efficiency is very important. For this reason Air Conditioning Service Pasadena has compiled some easy, lost cost methods that can aid in increasing the energy efficiency of an air conditioner. This will then lead to reduced electricity bills.
1. Condenser Unit Cleaning
Your air conditioner’s outer unit is the most vulnerable to climatic conditions so the first thing that needs to be cleaned is the condenser unit. Your outdoor unit will work most efficiently if it is clean and clear of debris. You can carry out this procedure all by yourself and for that there are more than enough videos available on the internet that layout all the steps involved. But since the condenser is such a crucial part of your conditioner hence it is recommended that you hire a professional and get an expert do the job for you.
2. Unblocked Vents
It is essential that you make sure that the vents are unblocked. Indoor vents should be vacuumed in order to remove dust and debris away from indoor supply vents to help maintain steady airflow from your system. Also, keep items like blinds, furniture and toys away from blocking the vents.
3. Adjust your thermostat
Adjusting the conditioner temperature can also promote increased efficiency, cost saving and increased temperatures can be achieved by adjusting temperature 5 to 8 degrees Celsius up and down during Summers and Winters respectively. With a programmable thermostat, you can automatically adjust the temperature for different times of the day or during times you are going to be away from home for several hours.
4. Keep heat emitting objects out
Keep lamps and other heat producing appliances away from your thermostat. Having heat producing appliances near your thermostat will tell it that the air in your home needs to be cooled more, causing the system to run longer and work harder than it may need to.
5. Keep your room cool
Keep curtains and blinds closed in the heat of the day. When direct sun hits the windows in your home, keeping your curtains or blinds closed can keep some of the heat from warming the inside of your home. It is also advised to install air conditioners on walls that are directly exposed to sunlight.
6. Insulating your ductwork
Insulate any exposed ductwork. Make sure ductwork that runs through an unconditioned space is properly sealed so it doesn’t leak any of your conditioned air. You can fix visual leaks with a specialized duct-sealing tape that is UL 181-rated but be sure a professional also checks the ductwork during your next scheduled maintenance visit. It’s also recommended that your ductwork be insulated using the proper thickness duct insulating material.
