6 Facts About Everyone Thinks Are True
- March 21, 2025
Smart Ways to Use Your Air Conditioner in Hot Weather
You don’t need to set your thermostat to the lowest possible temperature to stay cool. Aim for a comfortable setting, typically between 75F and 78F. Raising the thermostat by a single degree over 72F may cut your cooling bills by as much as 3%. View here for more info on this product.
If you’re away from home, set the thermostat a few degrees higher to save energy. Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler by creating a breeze, allowing you to raise the thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.
Consistent upkeep is essential for ensuring your AC operates at peak efficiency. Clean or replace the air filter every 1-2 months, especially during peak usage. When filters are dirty, airflow is reduced, causing the AC to strain and increase energy consumption. This website has all you need to learn more about this topic.
Additionally, schedule annual professional maintenance to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and ensure the system is in good condition. Leaks in walls, gaps, and inadequate insulation can let cool air escape, causing the AC to overwork. Examine windows, doors, and ducts for any leaks, then seal them using weatherstripping or caulk.
Proper insulation in your attic and walls can also help keep cool air inside, reducing the load on your AC. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly heat your home. Shut curtains, blinds, or shades when the sun is strongest to keep the heat out.
Consider using blackout curtains or reflective window film to reduce heat gain even further. Tasks such as cooking, operating the dishwasher, or drying clothes can produce heat, increasing the workload on your AC. Try to schedule these tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Choosing a microwave or outdoor grill rather than the oven can help keep your home cooler. A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set a cooling schedule that matches your daily routine. You can program it to lower the temperature before you arrive home and raise it when you’re away. You can read more on the subject here!
Some smart thermostats even learn your habits and adjust settings automatically for maximum efficiency. Check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are covering the air vents. When vents are blocked, airflow is restricted, making your AC less efficient.
Open all vents, even in rooms you don’t use, to maintain balanced airflow in your home. Following these guidelines will allow you to enjoy a cool home without straining your AC or overspending. Using your AC efficiently conserves energy and contributes to environmental protection by lowering your carbon footprint.