There have long been ongoing debates about the most effective and energy-efficient way to use an air conditioner. While some people believe in using an AC in short bursts, most homeowners tend to believe that running an air conditioner all day is the best way to go. Is that really the case when chasing comfort and efficiency? Discover the answer to that question today.
The Ideal Air Conditioner Settings to Reduce Energy Costs
The Department of Energy came up with the ideal solution. It recommends that you keep your air conditioning set to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you leave for work. When you get home, you can go ahead and turn it down to between 68 and 70 degrees. This will mean your home isn’t set at the ideal temperature upon your return, but it is comfortable enough for most people. This represents a strong solution to reducing your energy costs. The Department of Energy estimates that most people with full-time jobs will reduce their energy bills by 10% by following this method.
A programmable thermostat is an ideal solution to this situation. If you have a daily routine, you can program your thermostat to 78 degrees when you leave for work. Then, you can set the thermostat to lower to a temperature of 68 degrees shortly before you get home. This allows you to save energy while you’re away without forfeiting comfort when you get home.
Aim for Consistency
It’s important to understand that if you want to reduce your energy costs, then you will want to avoid major fluctuations in your temperature settings. By keeping your temperature set at 78 degrees all day, your system only has to lower the temperature by 10 degrees when you get home. Then, it can maintain that temperature throughout the evening. If you change that temperature a few degrees every hour or so, you’ll see higher energy costs. Your costs will also rise if you set the thermostat to extremely low temperatures in order to drastically reduce the temperature.
When you feel like your home is too warm, you may assume that turning your thermostat to its lowest possible setting is the best way to beat the heat. Unfortunately, this results in your AC running too hard for an extended period of time, lessening your air conditioner’s energy-efficiency capabilities. Additionally, this method of cooling puts added strain on your air conditioner, resulting in worn-out or damaged parts, facilitating the need for professional AC repair. In addition to leaving you needing AC repair, taking this approach too often will wear out the system, resulting in the need for an air conditioner replacement earlier than you planned.
This is why consistency is key when determining the right temperature setting for your home. When you never adjust your desired temperature on your thermostat by more than 10 degrees, it allows the system to turn off for a while every day, increasing energy efficiency and extending the life expectancy of your home’s air conditioner.
Optimize Your Energy Usage With Regular AC Maintenance
One of the most effective ways to maximize the efficiency of your air conditioner is through regular maintenance. By ensuring that your AC system is in optimal condition, you can enhance its performance, extend its lifespan, and reduce energy consumption. At Cool Power LLC, we understand the importance of air conditioner maintenance, and we provide comprehensive services to keep your system operating at its best.
During a regular maintenance visit, you can expect our team to perform tasks like cleaning debris and replacing or lubricating components. We will remove dirt and dust from the internal components, which will improve the airflow, prevent clogs, and enhance the overall efficiency you can expect from your system. Additionally, we inspect and optimize your unit to address any potential issues. By catching them early, we can help you avoid costly major repairs down the road.
Signs Your AC Isn’t Running Efficiently
The most obvious sign of an inefficient air conditioner is a sharp increase in your monthly utility bills. While a slight increase is normal, especially during the hottest part of the year when your system runs more frequently, drastic increases typically indicate that something is wrong. Monitor your monthly electric bills to see if you can find a pattern. If you see a slight increase during July or August, there is likely little to worry about. However, increases of more than 10%, especially over an extended period of time, are a warning sign that your system is struggling to operate efficiently.
Strange noises or smells coming from the system also mean that something is wrong. While these noises and odors aren’t indicative of an efficiency problem on their own, they mean that something is wrong with the system, and your efficiency will suffer.
Uneven temperatures throughout your home can be a sign that your air conditioning unit is having trouble. It is likely running less efficiently, which also likely means that it’s running harder than it needs to.
Upgrading to a Newer, More Efficient Unit
If your air conditioner is more than 10 or 15 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient unit. Another sign you may require an upgrade is when your energy bills are consistently getting higher. Maintenance may help if your unit hasn’t been cleaned or serviced in a while, but otherwise higher bills may be a sign that it’s time for an upgrade. Another common situation that requires a replacement is when your system is in need of a major repair and your warranty has expired. As expert HVAC technicians, we’ll let you know if your repair costs may warrant purchasing a new unit instead.
Whatever the reason for your air conditioning replacement, there is some good news. A newer unit will be more efficient. Technology has significantly advanced in recent years, resulting in air conditioners that provide better performance while consuming less energy.
At Cool Power LLC, we offer AC installation services that ensure you have the right system for your home. Our team of experts can guide you through the process. We will take into account factors such as your home’s size, cooling requirements, and budget. By installing a properly sized and efficient air conditioner, you can enjoy improved cooling performance and lower energy costs.
Optimize Your Air Conditioner’s Efficiency With Help From the Pros
Our team of technicians is proud to provide quality workmanship. We love seeing how the time we’ve invested in training results in expert-level maintenance and repairs. This translates into optimized air conditioning units with high levels of efficiency for our customers. We also provide heating repair, maintenance, and installation for homeowners in the Ronkonkoma area.
At Cool Power LLC, we recommend using your AC system wisely, implementing energy-saving measures, and seeking professional advice to optimize your cooling experience. Our team is here to assist you with any further inquiries or HVAC-related needs. Contact Cool Power LLC today for expert advice and solutions tailored to your specific needs.
