On average, the American home spends about $2,200 a year on energy bills.. If your AC unit is outdated, inefficient, or improperly sized for your home, those costs can be even higher. Read on to see our tips on how to make your ac more energy efficient.
Rising Energy Bills
Over time, the coils and other components of your AC unit will naturally degrade. This results in your AC unit having to work harder to maintain the same level of cooling. As a result, you’ll see increased energy consumption and higher bills.
In addition, dust and other debris can accumulate on the coils and other parts of the AC unit. This will further reduce efficiency.
A significant increase should warrant a call to your HVAC contractor. A professional can inspect your unit and help with any efficiency troubles.
Poor Cooling
When your AC system is not cooling properly, there are a number of possible explanations.
One possibility is that the system is not sized correctly for the space it is trying to cool. An undersized unit will have to work harder to achieve the desired temperature. This will lead to increased strain on the unit and higher energy bills.
Another possibility is that the system is not properly charged with refrigerant. If the level of refrigerant is low, it will prevent the system from cooling effectively. Finally, poor cooling can also be caused by a dirty or blocked air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow and prevents the evaporator coils from doing their job.
Poor cooling is likely characterized by:
- Hot and cold spots
- High humidity levels
- Takes a long time to cool home
Short-Cycling
When an AC unit short-cycles, it turns on and off more frequently than normal. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a thermostat that is not properly calibrated, a clogged air filter, or a refrigerant leak. Short cycling puts unnecessary stress on your AC unit, which can lead to early deterioration and repair or replacement.
Excessive Noise
If your AC unit is making strange noises, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Common causes of noise include loose parts, a broken fan blade, or a refrigerant leak. Some common noises include:
- Grinding
- Squealing
- Rattling
If you notice any of these noises, shut off the unit until a professional can take a look at it. If you’re in Sacramento and need air conditioning or maintenance services, Gallagher’s is your go-to contractor.
Upgrade to a Newer Unit
If your AC unit is more than 15 years old, it’s time for an upgrade. Newer AC systems are much more efficient than older ones, thanks to advances in technology. For example, newer AC units might use more efficient compressors and refrigerants, and they may be better at regulating temperature.
To determine how much you could save by upgrading to a newer unit, look at the SEER rating. The SEER rating is a measure of an AC unit’s energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is. Generally, it should be at least 13, but preferably higher.
Have Your Unit Regularly Serviced
During a service, a technician will clean the coils and filter, check the refrigerant level, and inspect the unit for any damage that could be affecting its performance. A well-maintained AC unit will not only run more efficiently, but it will also last longer. This will save you money in the long run.
In addition, regular servicing can help to prevent potential problems before they cause major damage. As a result, it is always best to schedule an AC service at least once a year.
Get a Smart Thermostat
A regular thermostat can only be set to one temperature. This means that your AC unit will run even when you don’t need it to. A smart thermostat, on the other hand, can be programmed to adjust the temperature automatically based on your schedule. This can keep you from using more energy than you need to.
Insulate Your Home
Insulation is important to
Insulation also helps to reflect heat away from your home, making it easier for your AC to maintain a comfortable temperature. There are many different ways to insulate your home, including:
- Weatherstripping
- Sealing gaps and cracks
- Attic insulation
- Replacing old window
A properly insulated home can save you up to 30% on your energy bills!
Use Curtains or Blinds
In addition to insulation, curtains and blinds can also help to keep cool air in and hot air out. By closing them during the day, you can block out the sun’s heat and prevent your home from getting too warm. To maximize their efficiency, choose curtains or blinds carefully. This means light-colored, thick, close-fitting, and made from a material that doesn’t allow heat to pass through easily. This is one of the easiest ways to make your AC more energy efficient.
Work With the Pros
Making your AC more energy efficient doesn’t have to be hard. With a little bit of effort, you can make a big difference in how much energy it uses. However, if you want to maximize its efficiency, it’s best to work with the pros.
At Gallagher’s Plumbing, Heating, and Air, we have the expertise to help. Give us a call today, and see how we can help with your energy bills today.
uys