Department of Energy reports show that heating and cooling costs can account for more than half of total utility bills. This makes central air conditioning a major energy expense in a typical U.S. home. We’ve compiled a list of simple, cost-free ways to increase the efficiency of your air conditioner to get the most out of it while controlling costs.
Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips
This blog will highlight the eight most effective and cost-free suggestions for air conditioning maintenance. These tips will help to keep your air conditioners healthy as temperatures rise and more homeowners turn on their units.
Clean around the outdoor condenser unit. Keeping your outdoor unit clean and debris-free will be the most efficient. You can read an article on HVAC performance, including a video showing how to clean your condenser. Professional air conditioning contractor in Knoxville TN should perform a more thorough and in-depth cleaning.
Keep vents clear and vacuum indoor vents. To maintain a steady airflow, vacuum any dust or debris from the indoor supply vents. Keep blinds, toys, and furniture away from the vents.
You can increase your thermostat by several degrees. Adjusting temperatures by 5 to 8 degrees in the winter and up to 10 in the summer can save you money and energy. A programmable thermometer allows you to change the temperature at different times during the day automatically or when you will be away for several hours.
Avoid placing lamps or other heat-producing appliances near your thermostat. Heat-producing appliances close to your thermostat can tell it to work harder and longer to cool the air.
Close your curtains and blinds during the heat of the sun. Close your blinds or curtains when the sun is directly hitting your windows.
Clear your drain line. The drain is usually located above the cooling coil.
Furnace in the basement. You can keep your air conditioning drain clean by flushing one cup of bleach and rinsing it with a gallon of water. Keep your drain clear by flushing one cup of chlorine bleach down the air conditioning drain and rinsing it with a gallon of water.
Drain line clearing can prevent your basement from absorbing water if the drainage becomes blocked.
Avoid using your oven and dryer during the hottest part of the day. The heat from your dryer and oven will make your air conditioner work harder.
Insulate exposed ductwork. Ensure that ductwork running through unconditioned spaces is properly sealed to prevent any conditioned air from leaking. If you see leaks, use a UL 181-rated duct-sealing material. However, have a professional check the ductwork at your next scheduled service visit. Your ductwork should also be insulated with the correct thickness of duct insulation material.
Spending lots of money on maintaining your central air conditioner is not always necessary. Keep your HVAC system running smoothly this summer by understanding the parts and how to maintain them. To save money on your maintenance and reduce the risk of problems developing, we recommend using the tips above. These tips can help ensure that your system works properly and that all of its components are in good condition.
Have your system checked at least once a year by a professional to ensure that the connections, equipment and ductwork are ready for the warmer weather. Call J.C.’s Heating and Air now.
Like our Facebook page for more great info about heating and cooling services.
Areas Served: Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Farragut, Powell, Knoxville, Knox County, Oak Ridge, Lenoir City
