AC Tips
Your Air Cconditioning system is one of the most-used, and most neglected, systems in your home. When it's working, you rarely even think about it. Until you get your monthly energy bill, that is. But the minute it goes down, for whatever reason, you start to panic. The following AC tips will help keep your AC system in tip-top running condition, and save you a few dollars on those energy bills.
Change The Filters
One of the best things you can do to maintain your system is to change the filters every month. You might not think that filter is dirty, but it's been collecting minute particles of dust, dirt, pet dander, bacteria, spores and who knows what else. Every single particle it collects blocks another little spot on that filter and forces your air conditioner to work that much harder processing the air. This is one of the most important AC tips.
The type of filter you use will also effect the performance of your system and your energy bills. Using a lesser quality filter will allow better air flow but it won't trap as many particles. Those particles will then pass through your system and start to accumulate over time. Using a denser filter will trap more particles but your system will also have to work harder to force air through the denser material. In most cases, a mid-range filter is the best choice, unless you have someone in your household with severe allergies or respiratory problems.
Keep it Clean and Clear
Everything you do that reduces the stress on your AC system will help towards lowering your energy costs. The harder and longer your system has to work to cool down your home, the higher your bill will be at the end of the month. These are some great AC tips if you are looking to save money.
It's important then to keep all coils and vents clean and free of debris so that air can easily circulate throughout your system. Your outside air handling unit is particularly susceptible to problems from dirt, debris, fallen leaves, grass clippings, etc. Inside units can be just as problematic because they're usually located in an attic or basement storage area and they get covered up with boxes and dust.
A lot of people choose to close vents in unused rooms in an effort to cut down on energy costs. But this often has the opposite effect. In a lot of newer homes, the ventilation system is configured to work most efficiently when all vents are at least partially open and the cool air is allowed to circulate freely throughout your whole house. If you notice a significant change in your energy bill it may be because your vents are closed or blocked with something.
Monitor the Thermostat
The popular opinion seems to be to set your thermostat at one temperature and leave it alone. But it's really more a matter of personal comfort. Obviously, changing your setting by 10 or 15 degrees every hour or two is going to put undue strain on your entire AC system and that will increase your energy bill. But if you're going to be away from your home all day or you're leaving on vacation, there's no reason you need to keep your thermostat set at 72 degrees when 76 or 78 would work just as well and save you a few dollars at the end of the month. In other words – don't be afraid to adjust your settings and see if you can save a few bucks. We hope you have enjoyed thses AC tips brought to you bye Heating And Air.com.